Develop Dalano Banton
The Blazers picked up Dalano Banton's team option worth $2.2 million for the 2024-25 season, suggesting that they also aren't ready to give up on him quite yet. He's only 24 years old and fits in with Rip City's rebuilding timeline.
The Blazers acquired Banton and cash considerations from the Boston Celtics, only having to give up a heavily protected second-round pick in exchange. Banton took advantage of his increased opportunity last season with all of the Blazers' injuries (especially toward the end of the season when they were clearly out of the playoffs and attempting to improve their lottery odds).
Banton has played three seasons in the NBA. His 30-game stint in Portland was by far the best of his young career. With the Blazers, he averaged 16.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists on 41/31/78 shooting splits. If Banton can improve his three-point shooting, he'll have a valuable role in the offense.
Additionally, Banton is 6-foot-8, which gives their roster another dimension. Both Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons are 6-foot-3, so Banton provides more lineup versatility for head coach Chauncey Billups. They also need a third-string point guard now that Malcolm Brogdon has been traded, and it's uncertain whether Simons will remain on the team for much longer.