NBA Draft Rumors: Portland Trail Blazers unlikely to trade for pick
By Bryan Rose
Although the Portland Trail Blazers have been seeking a first round draft pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, such a deal seems rather unlikely at this point. That’s the word from Chris Haynes who says that while the Blazers could potentially still attempt to make a move during the draft, as of now such a trade doesn’t appear to be in the cards.
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The Blazers are without a pick in either of the first or second rounds of Thursday’s draft and there have also been whispers about Portland’s desire to obtain a second round pick, though it seems as if Haynes’ suggestion is for both rounds.
The most likely scenario here is that the Blazers do have an eye on somebody they like, though, there’s no reason to trade for a pick if the said player is going to cost them too much so they’ll likely wait to see how the draft unfolds.
In addition, the Portland Trail Blazers already have 12 players under contract for the 2014-15 season and that’s with Mo Williams opting out. What they do with Will Barton’s contract is unknown as well, though, it’s not fully guaranteed and he can be waived if the team does want to clear up an additional roster spot.
Lastly, drafting a player in the first round also comes with a guaranteed salary and the Blazers, who already have $64 million committed for the upcoming season, may not be intrigued with the idea of adding more salary.
For now, it looks as if the Portland Trail Blazers will have a relatively boring draft day.