5 Trail Blazers who increased their trade value this season

3. Jabari Walker

Walker has been in the Blazers rotation since opening night, but more playing time opened up down the stretch as the franchise dealt with injuries and began looking to maximize their lottery odds. The 2022 second-round draft pick averaged just 11.1 minutes per game as a rookie but has taken a significant step forward in year two. Walker is playing 23.6 a night for the season and nearly 28 per game over the last 37 contests.

The 6’9 wing is a strong rebounder and could become a key piece of their rotation. Since Jan. 12, Walker is averaging 9.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 27.8 minutes per game. He is shooting 44.1 percent from the field, but just 29.3 percent on his 3-point attempts. Walker must improve his jumper to reach his ceiling, but the 21-year-old has plenty of time.

After year one, teams would have been taking a total flyer on Jabari Walker, but he has shown flashes this season. It has not translated to wins, but rebuilding teams may be eager to get a young talent to help develop. His stock has certainly gone up, and the Blazers would get more than the 57th overall pick they used to select him.

Walker’s trade value is still limited, but the Portland Trail Blazers have two big-ticket items that could go on the market this offseason.