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Recent NBA rumors have suggested that the Portland Trail Blazers are looking to bolster their frontcourt. With names such as Jae Crowder, Mo Bamba and Nerlens Noel in the mix, the Blazers could make some changes ahead of the trade deadline.
The Trail Blazers haven't been a solid team in the last few seasons. Last season, they were significantly undermanned, with superstar Damian Lillard recuperating from injury. However, this season has been equally uneventful.
With a 26-28 record, the Trail Blazers are 11th in the West. With two consecutive losses in the books, Portland is on the verge of falling even further, so they could ring in the changes
As per recent rumors, the Trail Blazers are looking to make some adjustments to their frontcourt rotation. With Jusuf Nurkic out due to a calf strain, Portland has been incredibly shorthanded at the center spot.
In this regard, Danny Marang shared some potential trade targets for the Trail Blazers, in a recent conversation with KGW sports. He said:
"From what I've heard, it does sound like Portland is definitely going to be active in the trade market. They want to be more athletic; they want to be more up-tempo, they want to be more aggressive defensively. Jusuf Nurkic just really doesn't fit that profile. As much as (Josh) Hart does kind of fit that profile, they're playing him out of position (at small forward)."
Marang also mentioned that the Trail Blazers could be looking at Utah's Jarred Vanderbilt as a potential target. Vanderbilt has garnered a lot of attention this season, as he's an athletic forward with solid defensive ability.
Marang also added that as far as athletic big men go, Orlando Magic center Mo Bamba and Detroit Pistons backup center Nerlens Noel could also be targets.He added that Phoenix Suns forward Jae Crowder could also be on the radar for the Trail Blazers, as he brings toughness and 'plays with a real edge'.
Danny Marang added that there may not be a big-time play for Portland at the trade deadline. However, one can expect the Portland Trail Blazers to be active in the trade market.
Portland Trail Blazers could make some moves
The Portland Trail Blazers have a realistic chance of landing any of the aforementioned players. Given the assets available along with the draft capital they have, the Trail Blazers have the pieces necessary to make a deal.
Jarred Vanderbilt would make for a solid addition to Portland. At only $4.3 million a year, the Trail Blazers could engage in a direct swap by including Justise Winslow and a draft pick in a deal. However, that may be slightly more complicated, considering Utah's stance on trading Vanderbilt.
Meanwhile, trading for Mo Bamba and/or Nerlens Noel may be a lot simpler. The Magic have already made Bamba available for trade, so it could depends on what Portland is willing to offer to sweeten the deal.
A trade for Jae Crowder may be the most complicated one given what Phoenix are asking for in return. However, a deal may be possible should Portland be willing to part ways with a few talented young players.
