Every NBA team inevitably has their share of draft day "what ifs" that haunt them. But some organizations, like the Portland Trail Blazers, have had it worse than others. Rip City has been so close to having its franchise take a completely different trajectory on multiple occasions.
The last star to go within a single pick of the Blazers was over a decade ago. Regardless, the numerous Hall of Fame players on the list make it a difficult read; this topic is especially rough for Blazers fans, and it cuts deeper than just the notorious Greg Oden and Sam Bowie selections.
Honorable mention: Brandon Miller - 2023
Trail Blazers pick: Scoot Henderson, No. 3
Other pick: Brandon Miller, No. 2 (Charlotte Hornets)
Brandon Miller is well on his way to making a significant impact in the league after a productive rookie season in which he received All-Rookie First-Team honors. Much of what made Miller a top draft prospect as a Freshman coming out of Alabama has already translated to the NBA. At 6-foot-7 with a smooth shooting stroke, his game is extremely similar to Paul George, Miller's idol whom he models his game after.
Miller could easily become a star, but it's too early to declare him one, making him an honorable mention. Let's hope history doesn't repeat itself in the 2024 NBA Draft for the Blazers, who are stocked with four picks in total.