Kel’el Ware’s rebounding and midrange game could fill in for Deandre Ayton
Deandre Ayton has only spent one season in Portland and had an exceptional end-of-season run, consistently recording over 20 points and ten rebounds a game. Regardless, the Blazers should explore Ayton's market around the league, and the big man shouldn't be untouchable if the right deal comes along. But, even if the Blazers decide to keep Ayton around, Kel'el Ware is someone they should consider in the draft, especially given Robert Williams' injury history.
The Blazers recently had a pre-draft workout with Ware, a Sophomore big man out of Indiana. Ware is an intriguing low-floor, high-ceiling type prospect that the Blazers should be considering with pick No. 14.
At Indiana, Ware averaged 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game on 59/43/63 shooting splits. He had a much better season this year - Ware spent his Freshman year at Oregon but only played 15.8 minutes per game and didn't make as significant of an impact as many were anticipating from the highly-rated center.
Ware could have even more success at the next level, as he possesses the tools necessary to succeed as a modern-day NBA center who can protect the rim defensively and be a lob threat while spacing the floor offensively. Like Ayton, there are question marks surrounding Ware's consistency and motor. But, at pick No. 14 in a weak draft class, he could be worth taking a flyer on.