The 2024 NBA Draft is finally approaching! Unfortunately, Portland Trail Blazers fans have been looking forward to this draft since about mid-season, when it was apparent that they had no hopes of making a playoff appearance this year. The Blazers were unlucky in the lottery, falling all the way to No. 7 despite finishing with a 21-61 record. However, a few prospects whose strengths fill a need for Rip City could still be available.
Dalton Knecht: Multi-level scoring
Despite having talented scorers like Anfernee Simons, Jerami Grant, and Deandre Ayton, the Blazers’ offense this past season was close to last in the league in numerous areas. Most notably, they were 29th in offensive efficiency with a 116.6 rating, which encompasses the fact that the entire offense needs improvement.
Dalton Knecht averaged 21.7 points on 46/40/77 shooting splits at Tennessee this past season. He can score at all three levels and would be a significant boost to the Blazers’ roster, giving them a much-needed offensive weapon. Knecht is one of the safer picks in an uncertain draft and should be able to contribute immediately due to his age (23) and experience as a fifth-year senior. Knecht’s ability to shoot from beyond the arc would help clear up the driving lanes for the Blazers’ guards who like to attack the paint, particularly rising stars Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.