NBA Draft 2020: Biggest needs for each Western Conference franchise
. . Portland Trail Blazers. . team. 34.
Biggest needs: Point guard and center
Projected picks: 16, 46
It’s hard to truly judge the Trailblazers season overall. They were under .500 in the regular season but were playing without starting center Jusuf Nurkic. They also suffered so many injuries during the season that they signed free agent Carmelo Anthony, who did ultimately prove to have a positive impact and has indicated a desire to return.
Damian Lillard and Portland’s run to make the playoffs was inspiring but the poor defense proved to be their downfall. The good news though is that Trevor Ariza will be back for next season, as well as guard Gary Trent Jr., who broke out with his three-point barrage in the bubble. There is a clear need to find another ball-handler to back up Lillard, but that can be found in either the second round of free agency.
The more pressing need is at power forward. Zach Collins regressed overall and the franchise will have to decide if they want to pick up his option or extend him. We may see the answer to that question with the 16th pick if it’s a forward. Jaden McDaniels or Zeke Nnaji would be ideal if available at that spot.
The other position should be a backup center, especially if Hassan Whiteside leaves as a free agent. Udkoa Azubuike of Kansas could be that big body to help out inside if they’re there in the second round, or they could focus on defense and get Virginia champion forward Mamadi Diakite.