As we inch closer to the NBA trade deadline, it’s time to explore the potential moves and challenges the Trail Blazers might face.
While December 15th is often seen as the unofficial start of trade season, it’s more of a warm-up. Most free agents signed over the summer become eligible for trades, setting the stage for more serious discussions. However, the real action typically heats up in January, with the trade deadline looming on February 6. So, while we might see a trade or two before mid-January, the big moves usually come later.
When it comes to potential trades, the Blazers have a few key players that often come up in speculation within the fan base: Anfernee Simons, Jerami Grant, and Deandre Ayton. Each of these players brings unique challenges to the table.
Simons, for instance, is having a tough season. His performance has been inconsistent, and his defensive shortcomings are still a glaring issue. On top of that, we’ve seen that the market for combo guards with defensive shortcomings has been very cool over the past few seasons. Grant, on the other hand, started the season strong but has struggled recently. His contract length and the Blazers’ high asking price could make it difficult to find a willing trade partner.
Ayton’s trade market is likely to be limited as well. His high salary and current performance issues make him a tough sell. However, there are teams in need of a center, and Ayton could still find a new home if the right deal comes along. But let’s be honest “the right deal” is doing a lot of work in the previous sentence.
The NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) adds another layer of complexity to the trade market. With stricter financial rules, teams are more cautious about taking on large contracts. The luxury tax and apron restrictions make it harder for teams to maneuver, especially those already near the luxury tax line.
For the Blazers, this means that finding trade partners for high-priced players like Grant, Ayton, and Simons could be more challenging. Teams are less willing to take on additional salary, which limits the pool of potential suitors. This new reality might lead to fewer blockbuster trades and more strategic moves involving lower-cost players.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Blazers’ trade strategies, tune into the Locked On Blazers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Blazers Podcast:
- The challenges of trading under the new CBA
- Potential suitors for the Blazers’ key players
- The role of minimum contracts in trade negotiations
