Jared McCain’s offensive skill set could step into Malcolm Brogdon’s role
According to The Athletic, Malcolm Brogdon is content with his leadership role in Portland. However, he seems to be the most likely player the Blazers will trade this offseason, and it’s somewhat surprising he’s even still on the roster. The 31-year-old veteran point guard doesn’t fit the Blazers’ rebuilding plans and is on an expiring contract.
One trade idea for every NBA team was recently proposed by Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley. In the article, Brogdon goes to the Orlando Magic in a realistic trade for Jett Howard, Joe Ingles, and the No. 18 overall pick. McCain projects to be taken right outside the lottery, so could the Blazers trade Brogdon and draft his replacement? It’s unlikely, but it should be an option the Blazers should consider, especially if they somehow come away with three first-round picks.
Portland’s most pressing issue currently is their shooting, and it’s only going to get worse if they trade away one of Grant, Brogdon, or Anfernee Simons. McCain is one of the best shooters in the entire draft class, connecting on 41.4 percent of his threes and 88.5 percent of his free throws as a Freshman at Duke.
Similarly to Brogdon, McCain is a guard who fits seamlessly into lineups with his ability to initiate the offense and space the floor when he doesn’t have the ball. He could be the Blazers' long-term solution as a backup who can play both guard positions if needed.