How This Trade Impacts Portland Trail Blazers
For the Portland Trail Blazers to even consider trading away Norman Powell, something big would have had to happen. Re-signing him is something that appeased Damian Lillard, so to move on from him months later would have to be from a trickle-down effect.
Maybe Lillard ultimately requested a trade and the Trail Blazers are entering a rebuild. That is really the only scenario that would make sense from Portland’s standpoint to take part in a deal like this.
If that is the case, this trade is a win for the Trail Blazers. They are getting out from the long-term money that Powell is owed, something that is imperative for a rebuilding team. The flexibility they would gain down the road would help them be a team that can take on draft capital to absorb unsavory contracts.
They would also be acquiring a young player oozing with potential in Talen Horton-Tucker. Turning only 21-years old in November, Horton-Tucker could be a cornerstone piece for Portland.
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He would have all of the opportunities to develop and showcase his talents on a rebuilding team that he is not afforded on a team looking to win now such as the Lakers.
Kendrick Nunn would also be a solid piece to help fill out the rotation with. He is a scoring guard that could help keep the offense afloat if they move on from their offensive leaders. Nunn has shown he can produce whether he starts or comes off the bench.
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It is highly unlikely that Powell is dealt, but in the off chance that he is, this is a deal that would be a win for Portland. They shed future salaries without surrendering draft capital and get a young player with immense potential to develop.
