Portland Trail Blazers: 3 realistic targets in free agency
By Jerry Trotta
Jerami Grant
When you think of the Denver Nuggets’ impressive 2019 season, stars like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray nab all of the headlines, leaving integral role players like Jerami Grant to get overlooked. The Nuggets acquired the 26-year-old forward in a trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for a first-round draft pick last offseason.
In a short amount of time, Grant proved to be Denver’s biggest addition. However, his contract contains a player option following this year which, should he choose to exercise it, will result in him becoming an unrestricted free agent. If there was ever a time for Portland to deploy its mid-level exception, this is it.
Grant enjoyed his best season as a pro for the Nuggets this year. He compiled 11.6 points and 3.5 rebounds with shooting splits of .518/.400/.744 in just over 26 minutes per game. To think what numbers the Syracuse product could have posted if head coach Mike Malone inserted him into the starting lineup — he started just 22 of the 64 contests he appeared in — is scary. He was the team’s most reliable perimeter defender and held his own as a rim protector, as evidenced by this electric double-block of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
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If there’s one thing the Trail Blazers are desperate for, it’s a proven wing defender. Not only does Grant fill that bill, but he comes with a sound offensive game as well. The potential of his slash-and-kick game with Lillard or McCollum should have Rip City supporters salivating.
Grant would make a seamless transition to Terry Stotts’ starting lineup. Doing so could move the aging Carmelo Anthony to the bench, which would allow him to play against lesser competition. The five-year pro has come a long way since being drafted in the second round (No. 39 overall) by the Philadelphia 76ers back in 2014.
In sum, Portland would be foolish if it hasn’t already tabbed Grant as one of its targets in free agency. The Blazers need depth and this is a move that the fan base should endorse in a heartbeat.