Luka Doncic will tell you that there's no such thing as a player being truly untouchable in today's NBA. But if the Western Conference bottom-feeder New Orleans Pelicans can make essentially their entire core off-limits this trade season, why can't the Portland Trail Blazers have a few of their own?
Portland has taken tremendous strides this season in terms of building an identity. They can't afford to let that progress go to waste by trading any of these players.
1. Deni Avdija
Deni Avdija is well on track to make his first-ever All-Star appearance, and for good reason. The Blazers' rising star is averaging a career-high 26.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game. He's suddenly become the face of Portland's franchise, which gives them an incredibly bright future considering his age (25) and team-friendly contract.
Any moves they make this trade season should be about finding pieces to complement Avdija's game, not potentially looking to sell high on him. Because there's still a good chance we haven't yet seen the best basketball of his career. That should come after Portland adds the pieces to further support his breakout.
2. Damian Lillard
It remains to be seen if Damian Lillard can return to form next season. Any value he can still provide on the offensive end should be considered a bonus. They could especially use his ability to shoot from just about anywhere once he crosses halfcourt, if that's still part of his arsenal.
However, this is more about his rare no-trade clause. Lillard is untouchable because he simply can't be traded! But with how much Dame means to this franchise, it would be shocking if they traded him even if they could.
3. Donovan Clingan
While Avdija and Lillard are no-brainers, considering Donovan Clingan to be untouchable is a more polarizing decision. Portland wouldn't have this defensive identity without its defensive anchor. Clingan is already proving to be their starting center of the future with the impact he provides as a rebounder and rim deterrent. He's also showing that his ceiling is higher than many expected, largely thanks to an expanded offensive arsenal that suddenly includes a reliable three-ball.
Portland could look to buy at the deadline, but it's because their young core, led by Avdija and Clingan, is playing at such a high level. To include either in a package to go star hunting would defeat the purpose.