The Portland Trail Blazers' season was a success well beyond just their playoff appearance. This season was significant in terms of providing Portland's front office with much-needed player evaluation.
Clarity has been the one thing this rebuild has lacked, with Portland stockpiling assets and figuring out how they best fit down the road. Now that the Blazers are back to their winning ways, they are ready to take that next step in their rebuild to find complementary pieces.
That comes from knowing who to build around, which has finally become much more apparent.
Untouchable: Deni Avdija
Portland finally found its first All-Star since Damian Lillard. Avdija's star ascension was one of the most important storylines of the season for the Blazers. They still have a ways to go to catch up with the Western Conference juggernauts, but Avdija has at least helped close the star power gap.
Given his age, team-friendly contract, and upward trajectory, there's no reason for Portland to make Avdija available for trade. As the new face of the franchise, the next step is for Portland to surround him with the ideal supporting cast.
Untouchable: Donovan Clingan
Clingan was quietly the second most important Blazers player this season. He's already emerged as one of the league's premier rim protectors, which makes him an integral piece to a team that prides itself on the defensive end. The UConn product should be considered off-limits this summer as he gives Portland its true defensive identity.
With the uncertainty surrounding Yang Hansen's development and Robert Williams III's health and future in Portland, Clingan has become more important than ever in Rip City.
Cut loose: Matisse Thybulle
Thybulle is set to hit free agency, and unfortunately, the Blazers should strongly consider letting him walk. Injuries have made him too unreliable for Portland, and they'd be better off investing that money and roster spot in a knockdown shooter. With versatile, defensive-minded wings like Kris Murray and Sidy Cissoko, Thybulle should be considered expendable in Portland.
Cut loose: Blake Wesley
Wesley deserves a ton of credit for carving out a role on this Blazers roster. He gives their backcourt another dimension as a defensive pest, and that alone could prolong his NBA career. Despite becoming a fan favorite in Rip City, that career may have to continue elsewhere.
Wesley is another free agent, and the offensive limitations aren't a good fit for this Portland team that lacks shooting. It's hard to see Wesley having value next season in what will be a crowded backcourt with Damian Lillard's return. Portland should consider using this roster spot on a forward for better roster balance.
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