NBA rumors: 3 playoff teams who need to sign Nerlens Noel today

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 10: Nerlens Noel #9 of the Detroit Pistons shoots the ball against Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on January 10, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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Jan 14, 2023; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) laughs with forward Drew Eubanks (24), left, and center Jusuf Nurkic (27) during a time out against the Dallas Mavericks at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /

Playoff teams that need to sign Nerlens Noel: 1. Portland Trail Blazers

Unlike the other two teams on this list, the Portland Trail Blazers are currently on the outside looking in. At 29-31, they are fighting for a play-in spot, but things could rapidly swing in their favor. They are tied with the 10th-seeded New Orleans Pelicans, and they trail the sixth-seeded Mavericks by only two games.

The Blazers have the talent to climb up the standings. Obviously, Damian Lillard is one of the most dynamic players in the sport. He is coming off a historic 71-point game. Jerami Grant is averaging 20.6 points per game, while shooting an efficient 48.4 percent from the field and 40.7 percent from three. Rookie Shaedon Sharpe has flashed elite upside.

Center stands out as the biggest need on the roster. Starter Jusuf Nurkic has been sidelined with a calf injury. As a result, their top two “center” options are forwards Drew Eubanks and Trendon Watford. The Blazers need to find a true center quickly. Noel can make an immediate impact.

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