3 ways the Carmelo Anthony trade affects the Portland Trail Blazers

1. 2018 NBA Playoffs

Barring any long-term injuries or issues, the Portland Trail Blazers will make the playoffs in the West. I think the fifth seed in the West is their best-case scenario.

If the Blazers earn the fifth seed, I can see them matching up with either the Houston Rockets or the San Antonio Spurs in the first round — both of whom I believe the Blazers are capable of defeating.

However, should the Blazers end up falling to one of the three lower seeds, it’s entirely possible they end up matching up with the Oklahoma City Thunder, resulting in a first round exit.

Next: NBA Trade Grades - Knicks send Carmelo Anthony to Thunder

The Thunder were already dangerous with Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Steven Adams, and frankly, the Blazers never had guys that could match up with them on paper. Adding Carmelo Anthony into the mix is the nail in the coffin.