Trail Blazers Bolster Young Core with 2024 Draft Picks
portland trail blazers draft picks – The Portland Trail Blazers addressed their need for a defensive anchor in the 2024 NBA Draft, selecting UConn center Donovan Clingan with the 7th overall pick. Clingan, a 6-foot-11, 260-pound big man, is known for his rim protection and rebounding prowess. Analysts believe he can be an “All-Defense-caliber” player in the NBA.
This pick comes after a busy offseason for the Blazers. portland trail blazers draft picks The team traded Damian Lillard to the New Orleans Pelicans in a blockbuster deal that brought back young forward Deni Avdija and future draft picks. This move signaled a rebuild for Portland, and the Clingan selection is a clear indication of their focus on building a strong foundation.
Clingan to Shore Up Blazers’ Defense
Clingan’s arrival is a welcome addition for a Blazers team that struggled defensively last season. Blazers coach Chauncey Billups emphasized the importance of defense throughout the offseason. Clingan averaged 2.5 blocks per game in his senior year at UConn, showcasing his ability to deter shots at the rim. His size and strength will also be valuable on the boards, where the Blazers need help after Jusuf Nurkic’s departure.
“We’re thrilled to add Donovan to our team,” Billups said. “He’s a big, physical presence who can protect the rim and rebound. We believe he has the potential to be a defensive cornerstone for us for years to come.”
Blazers Acquire Additional Picks
The Blazers weren’t done after selecting Clingan. They also acquired a second-round pick from the Minnesota Timberwolves or Charlotte Hornets (depending on which team finishes with the lower record) and another second-rounder from the Atlanta Hawks. These picks could be used to add depth to the roster or potentially package them in a future trade for another young player.
Looking Ahead: Young Core Takes Shape
With the addition of Clingan, the Blazers now have a young core of talented players to build around. Scoot Henderson, the third overall pick in the 2023 draft, is already showing signs of being a future star point guard. Shaedon Sharpe, another highly-touted prospect from the 2023 class, adds scoring punch on the wing. Anfernee Simons, acquired in the Lillard trade, provides another scoring option in the backcourt.
The frontcourt also boasts potential with Robert Williams III, another piece acquired in the Lillard deal, alongside Clingan. Kris Murray, a forward selected 23rd overall in 2023, brings versatility and athleticism.
This young group, along with veterans like Norman Powell and Justise Winslow, has the potential to be a force in the Western Conference in the coming years. However, patience will be key. These young players will need time to develop and build chemistry together.
Building Through the Draft
The Blazers’ focus on the draft reflects a shift in their strategy. After years of contending with Lillard and CJ McCollum, the team is now in a position to accumulate young talent and draft picks. The picks they acquired in the Lillard trade, along with their own future first-rounders, give them valuable assets they can use to build through the draft or potentially trade for established stars down the line.
The 2024 draft is just one step in the Blazers’ rebuilding process. With a young core in place and a commitment to building through the draft, the future looks bright in Portland. The fans may have to endure some growing pains in the short term, but the hope is that this new era will lead the Blazers back to the playoffs and beyond in the years to come.