Winner #1: Portland Trail BLazers
1. Portland Trail Blazers: So far in this surprisingly very interesting NBA offseason, one team has made four frugal and smart decisions to solve their glaring issues, the Trail Blazers. Coming into the period following a season where a bright future seemed ahead, Portland seemed to have a few glaring weaknesses keeping them out of the playoffs. First off, they had to replace free agent to be J.J. Hickson, who played the role of center way better than could have been hoped but is also a natural power forward fit. Now 2012 draftee Meyers Leonard was meant to be that replacement, but he seems to be a year or two away at least and is still developing. Drafting Jeff Withey in the second round, a player projected by many to land in the 20s of the first round, is a perfect fit. While neither player has much of an established offensive game yet, especially Withey, Leonard's potential and Withey's defense gives them at least decent depth at the position. Portland is rumored to also be going after Tiago Splitter to start at center but they would be smart to not overpay him and might better be served going after a cheaper option like Samuel Dalembert or Chris Kaman. The teams other huger need, bench depth has been solved outstandingly without even signed a free agent. This year C.J. Mccollum and Allen Crabbe were also both drafted, give them cheap and very solid guard depth. Both are excellent shooters and C.J. has the makings of an excellent sixth man. Trading a European prospect and two second round picks for former lottery pick Thomas Robinson give them at the very least another big men and if he develops would give them an excellent bench option and possibly convince the team to shop the disgruntled Lamarcus Aldridge. Free agent Wings Mickael Pietrus, Cory Maggette, Earl Clarke, DeMarre Carroll, and Carl Landry among others would be great options to solidify the rest of the bench.
The future is looking bright in rip city
Coming up for Winners: Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, New Orleans Pelicans,
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