Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal 

For the Blazers, this is a simple case of asset management. 

Sure, Simons has developed into a fantastic shot-creating guard. The Blazers just happen to have a better one. This organization should have already learned from the Lillard/McCollum era: another small, offensive guard is not an optimal co-star for Dame. 

Wouldn’t a 3-and-D wing with secondary shot-creating abilities? If so, this trade should work for Portland. After all, Bridges is one of the best 3-and-D wings in the NBA. 

Sure, this deal makes the Blazers older. If the point is to contend with Lillard leading the charge, that’s a moot point.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers & Orlando Magic Updates

There’s no complicated logic for Portland here – they need Bridges more than they need Simons. 

If nothing else, he gives them better roster balance.