Portland Trail Blazers Season Preview
Re-signed: None
Additions: Deni Avdija (trade), Devonte’ Graham (free agent)
Draft Pick: Donovan Clingan (No. 7 overall)
Departures: Malcolm Brogdon (to Wizards)
Unsigned Free Agents: Ibou Badji, Moses Brown, Ashton Hagans
Last Season Recap
The 2023-24 season was rough for the Portland Trail Blazers in their first year without Damian Lillard. The team struggled to find a new focal point, winning just 21 games, including a dismal stretch where they lost 15 of their final 17 contests. Injuries to key veterans like Anfernee Simons, Deandre Ayton, and Jerami Grant derailed any consistency, and Scoot Henderson had a rocky rookie transition, further contributing to the team’s struggles. Portland cycled through 18 different starters throughout the season, showcasing a mix of young talent but lacking a clear identity.
Summer Summary
Portland used its No. 7 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft to select Donovan Clingan, a 7-footer who played a significant role in UConn’s NCAA championship run. His rapid development made him an easy choice for the Blazers, despite their surplus of centers. Alongside Clingan, the Blazers also added Deni Avdija in a trade for Malcolm Brogdon, a move that fits with Portland’s youth-oriented rebuild. Avdija, who averaged 14.7 points and 7.2 rebounds for the Wizards, brings versatility and defensive upside to Portland’s young core.
Meanwhile, Devonte’ Graham was signed as a free agent, adding a scoring guard to the mix, though his role remains unclear given the Blazers’ backcourt depth with Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
Player Spotlight: Donovan Clingan
As the No. 7 overall pick, Donovan Clingan enters a crowded frontcourt but brings shot-blocking and rebounding prowess that Portland desperately needs. At 7 feet tall, Clingan has shown potential on both ends of the floor, with defensive instincts and the ability to contribute offensively around the rim. The Blazers hope his size and skill will complement their core and accelerate their rebuild.
Season Outlook
The Blazers are in a transitional phase, trying to establish a new identity around their young core of Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and now Donovan Clingan. However, there are major challenges ahead. Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant are capable of scoring 20+ points per game, and Portland also boasts experienced big men like Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III, but the team’s lack of depth and clear direction remains a concern.
The Blazers have an overcrowded frontcourt and backcourt, meaning they could look to be sellers at the trade deadline, especially if the team starts slowly. If Henderson shows more consistency and Sharpe takes a step forward, Portland may begin to see positive signs of progress, though a playoff berth seems out of reach for the 2024-25 season. This year will likely be more about player development and positioning for future success rather than immediate contention.
