2024 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs prioritize two-way talents, Magic land surprise steal
By Reese Kunz
Pick No. 14: Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors) select Jared McCain
Even though the Trail Blazers have a crowded backcourt, seemingly endless statistics support the notion that they need more help at their guard positions. This season, they were 29th in offensive efficiency with a 166.6 offensive rating. A significant contributing factor to that was their lack of playmaking. The Blazers were last in the league in assist percentage (58.7) and assist-to-turnover ratio (1.52).
Additionally, Portland was last in two-point (49.3 percent) and three-point (34.4 percent) shooting efficiency. It’s difficult to generate offense when you aren’t maximizing possessions and generating high-percentage looks through ball movement. It’s even more challenging when you don’t have shooters in place to take advantage of these limited opportunities.
They must address these needs, and guard Jared McCain would significantly help. As a freshman at Duke, McCain averaged 14.3 points, five rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals on 46/41/89 shooting splits. He’s arguably the best shooter in the entire draft class and would immediately help Portland improve their lackluster offense. McCain’s combo guard skillset and ability to play off the ball as a spot-up shooter allows him to fit alongside Scoot Henderson.