While Giannis Antetokounmpo would certainly help the Trail Blazers' star power problem, the one hesitation in pulling off the blockbuster trade is whether he's willing to commit to staying in Portland long-term. That's a major roadblock to making this dream a reality, given the rumors at the deadline that Giannis has no desire to come here.
The good news is, Portland already has a contingency plan in place: Anthony Davis.
If Portland can't convince the Greek Freak to commit to staying in the Pacific Northwest, the focus could shift to Davis, NBA insider Jake Fischer recently reported on The Stein Line (subscription required).
Fischer adds that the Blazers contacted the Dallas Mavericks to explore a trade for Davis at the deadline, with a "Grant-centric package sweetened with draft capital." Ultimately, the Mavericks preferred sending Davis to the Washington Wizards, giving themselves more financial flexibility because they didn't have to take on Grant's massive contract, which runs through 2027-28.
Anthony Davis is the perfect backup plan for Portland
However, it's also been rumored that Davis may not stay on the Wizards roster to begin next season, as they could ultimately flip the 33-year-old star who doesn't quite fit their rebuilding timeline.
"I do think there's a good chance that he may end up somewhere else by the time next season starts," NBA insider Chris Haynes recently said on Sirius XM NBA.
While Giannis should be the ultimate goal for Portland this offseason, Davis certainly wouldn't be a bad consolation prize.
He would fit in well with Portland's roster, giving them a defensive anchor who is better equipped to guard on the perimeter than Donovan Clingan. That would be perfect to help cover for Damian Lillard's defensive limitations next season. He also has valuable championship experience to help this team get to the next level, which is essential for the closing window of Portland's aging star backcourt of Lillard and Jrue Holiday.
Perhaps most importantly for the Blazers' situation, Davis would cost significantly fewer assets to land than Giannis.
In his exit interview, Blazers general manager Joe Cronin made it clear that the Blazers are open to trading for a star this summer, with the caveat that it must be at the right price point.
"We're not going to sacrifice our entire future for a short-term swing," he added.
So not only does Portland have to convince Giannis to stay, but they also have to come away with the superstar for a reasonable value. That's a long shot, as they'll have to compete with several teams around the league in the sweepstakes, which will drive up the value.
From that standpoint, a Davis trade seems much more realistic for Portland. He helps their short-term star power problem without having to sacrifice their future, which is the exact type of deal Cronin is looking for this summer.
The fact that they already gauged interest in Davis at the deadline is telling, and it wouldn't be surprising if The Brow finds himself in Rip City to start the 2026-27 season.
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