Rudy Gay’s injury has trimmed down the competition for the eighth seed in the Western Conference. This should further motivate the Portland Trail Blazers to trade for a center.
The Portland Trail Blazers are in the midst of a disappointing season. They have fallen off after a surprising season last year that saw them finish fifth in the West and make the second round of the playoffs. The Trail Blazers are currently 19-27 and one game back of the Denver Nuggets for the last playoff seed in the Western Conference.
The offense has been above average thus far; their 106.3 Offensive Rating is 12th in the league per NBA.com. Their defense, however, has not been up to par. The Blazers are 27th in the league in Defensive Rating per NBA.com.
Portland does play two star guards in Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, who are not known for their defense. However, much of their defensive woes can be attributed to Mason Plumlee. Plumlee is dead last on the Blazers with a 112.0 Defensive Rating. For reference, the Nuggets ironically have the worst Defensive Rating in the league at 110.1.
Given Portland’s defensive struggles and Mason Plumlee’s issues in particular, Portland should try to explore the trade market to get a defensive-minded center to pair with their backcourt stars. Here are five centers that could help Portland make a playoff push.