Duop Reath is a center for the Portland Trail Blazers, but you wouldn't believe his path to making that a reality. In 2024, ESPN's Andrew Lopez published an in-depth piece about Reath's unlikely journey to the NBA, which is certainly worth a read.
The Blazers' big man went undrafted in 2023, but overcoming adversity was something he was used to. He turned out to be one of the most surprising rookies in the league, averaging 9.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 17.9 minutes per game. Most importantly, he shot 35.9% from beyond the arc, becoming a reliable stretch five in a modern NBA where that player archetype has become increasingly valuable.
As a rookie, he was also the third-oldest player on Portland's roster. Now in his third season, Reath is already 29 years old. He's also on a $2.2 million contract that expires after this season. Unfortunately, that leaves the Blazers with a tough decision regarding his future.
Trail Blazers could part ways with Duop Reath
Reath has proven to be a capable NBA-level player, but his career may have to continue elsewhere. He peaked in the 2023-24 season, regressing ever since that feel-good rookie campaign. His numbers and opportunities have both decreased every year since entering the league. This season, he's averaging a career low 2.8 points in 7.3 minutes, completely falling out of interim head coach Tiago Splitter's rotation.
The Blazers have now invested consecutive first-round picks at the center spot, leaving Reath's future even more in question. The fact that he's not able to crack the rotation when the Blazers have been so plagued by one injury after another is very telling about how they view him both currently and going forward.
Portland has even prioritized two-way signings Caleb Love and Sidy Cissoko over Reath. Eventually, they'll have to decide whether or not to convert those two-way contracts to standard ones. You could make a case for keeping either, although we'd prefer Cissoko for his two-way prowess and ability to impact winning in a more scalable role.
With a full 15-man roster, it wouldn't be surprising if Reath turns out to be the one they part ways with. The Blazers don't need four centers on their roster, and Rayan Rupert possesses more upside at 21 years old. But even if it's not a midseason decision, the Blazers will have to clear a spot this offseason, whether it's for an incoming rookie or someone else entirely.
Look for Reath to be the odd man out. If that is the case, hopefully it opens another window for what has been one of the most impressive journeys in the entire NBA.