Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal 

This is not an open-and-shut case for the Blazers. We realize that. There are flaws in this deal for them. 

Specifically, they’re giving up three defensive wings in exchange for one weak defender. That’s quite the gamble. At the same time, the Blazers probably don’t have enough offensive firepower to make use of them at the moment anyway. 

Not if an NBA title is the goal, anyway. Meanwhile, Jerami Grant is a stout defender. Following this deal, he’d be the Blazers’ third option, which should allow him more energy for the defensive end. 

Moreover, 21-year-old Trendon Watford flashed some potential as a 3-and-D wing in 2021-22. Following this deal, the Blazers will hope he’s ready for a more prominent role.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: New York Knicks & Portland Trail Blazers Updates

If he is, they may not miss the players they’re giving up here too badly. 

That’ll be especially true if Julius Randle regains his 2020-21 form. In that event, the Blazers will be landing Lillard a true co-star. That has to be worth the price they’re paying here.