The Portland Trail Blazers are rebuilding, but that has not stopped them from being active. They traded for Deni Avdija and have not been afraid to be bold as the franchise attempts to create a contender. Fans have heard the Anfernee Simons rumors, but the latest put a timetable on the Blazers creating action.
The Oregonian’s Aaron Fentress believes Jerami Grant or Simons will be moved before training camp. The Blazers are just $2 million under the luxury tax line and want to create more playing time for Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. Grant’s massive contract limits his market and could put Simons on the move.
The NBA’s new spending restrictions have squeezed the trade market. Teams over the first and second apron are limited, but it is not every day that a 25-year-old potential All-Star becomes available. Simons keeps improving, but the Blazers are prioritizing other guards. It puts him firmly on the block and should have Portland's front office considering these moves.
4. Jazz keep Markkanen and buy on Simons
The Lauri Markkanen trade rumors are everywhere, but the situation will quickly be resolved. The All-Star forward is extension-eligible starting Aug. 6. If he signs a new contract, he cannot be traded for six months. The trade deadline is on Feb. 6, so Markkanen cannot be dealt this season if he signs after the first day he is eligible.
The Jazz should try to buy if they plan on keeping the seven-footer. With Markkanen, they haven't been good enough to make the Play-In Tournament or select at the top of the lottery. Utah cannot be stuck in the middle and could likely convince the Blazers to part with Simons at a reasonable price.
Utah would love to add Collins and the two years remaining on his contract. It would open more run for Walker Kessler and give them more flexibility. They have several additional first-round draft picks and would likely protect both selections in this deal.
The Blazers have too many guards and big men. Collins is not an ideal fit, but picking up two first-round picks may be enough to convince Portland to accept this deal. Collins could play minutes at the four and the Trail Blazers build their draft capital.
Simons and Markkanen could be a fun offensive duo, and the Jazz have young talent to help them keep ascending. It may not be enough to make the Play-In Tournament, but it solves Utah’s need for a guard and makes them more interesting.
The Utah Jazz are unlikely to make this move, but they are not the only team needing a long-term fit with a star big man.