Blazers Receive ‘C’ Grade for Offseason Moves So Far
The Portland Trail Blazers appear to have found a clearer identity post-Damian Lillard, building a young, defensive-focused team. Players like Toumani Camara and Donovan Clingan embody the shift toward a defense-first culture, and with other promising talents such as Shaedon Sharpe, Scoot Henderson, Deni Avdija, Yang Hansen, Rayan Rupert, and Kris Murray, there’s optimism for the future in Rip City after a rough period.
However, the biggest offseason move was the decision to trade Anfernee Simons to the Boston Celtics in exchange for veteran guard Jrue Holiday. While Holiday doesn’t quite match the timeline of Portland’s younger core, he’s a seasoned player — a six-time All-NBA defender with potential Hall of Fame credentials. Portland is hopeful that the younger players can learn from him and elevate their game.
Despite the activity, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz isn’t overly impressed with Portland’s offseason. He gave the team a “C” grade in his review of their moves, noting several key points:
“The Blazers have yet to make any major free-agent signings, though buying out Deandre Ayton has freed up enough money to use the full $14.1 million mid-level exception without going into the luxury tax. With 13 players already under contract, Portland may hold off on any significant signings, instead opting to act as facilitators in larger trades and acquiring assets. Paying a player $25.5 million to not play isn’t ideal, but at least Portland chose not to stretch Ayton’s remaining money over the next few years.”
Holiday’s hefty contract is a concern, but the Blazers’ decision to part ways with Ayton may ultimately be beneficial. While Holiday is no longer in his prime, he aligns well with the team’s defensive approach under Chauncey Billups.
At the very least, Portland will be a tough team to play against, and a few more moves could push them into true contention in the competitive Western Conference.
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