Portland shuffles supporting cast, but it’s still all about the guards

Storyline No. 3: Is the roster a finished product?

That doubt may be what forces the Portland Trail Blazers to make a trade. Although the Blazers have made the most out of the least before, this is one of the weakest rosters they’ve had in quite some time.

If Anfernee Simons isn’t ready for serious NBA minutes, there’s suddenly a need for another ball handler. Expecting Anthony Tolliver to be a full-time starter for a serious playoff contender is wishful thinking.

Can the Blazers really rely on Rodney Hood to replicate what he did late last season? What does the wing rotation look like if Mario Hezonja flops? Is it feasible to make Zach Collins play the 4 in 2019?

It’s very easy to see this not going well, and therefore also very easy to envision a mid-season trade. The Blazers have been adamant about not trading first-round picks, but to stay in the hunt in a loaded Western Conference, they may have to this season.

Several bad teams have players the Blazers could use. Andre Iguodala, currently with the Memphis Grizzlies, is going to be coveted by everyone due to his defensive versatility and championship pedigree. If the Knicks’ season goes south (which it will), Marcus Morris is a sneaky add after Dec. 15.

If the Blazers don’t add a major piece at the deadline, someone probably popped from the bench glut.