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Portland Trail Blazers: 4 goals in 2021 NBA free agency

By Ty Delbridge

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NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /
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Portland Trail Blazers, NBA free agency (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
Portland Trail Blazers, NBA free agency (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Portland Trail Blazers goals in NBA free agency: 4. Add a playmaking backup point guard

In his introductory press conference, Chauncey Billups talked about having the team’s star guards Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum play off the ball more, and for that to happen, the Blazers need a good playmaker who can get those guys the ball.

For the last couple of seasons, guys like Evan Turner, Mario Hezonja, McCollum, Powell or Anfereee Simons were the primary ballhandler when Lillard was on the bench, but distributing for others isn’t those guy’s strengths, and the offense wasn’t as efficient.

Since Billups is one of the best point guards to ever play in the NBA, he understands the importance of the position on both ends of the court at the starting and bench level and probably would like that current backup weakness filled.

This roster has plenty of players that can score the basketball, and it’s finally time for Olshey to realize that and bring in a guy besides Lillard who is comfortable with the ball in his hands, running an offense and getting others involved for good shot opportunities.

A few names that could be free agents this year that would be realistic options and a good fit for the roster as a backup point guard are:

  • T.J. McConnell:
    6’1″, 190 pounds, Ranked second in the league in 2021 in steals per game. Career 6.8 points, 5.0 assists and 1.3 steals per game
  • Jeff Teague:
    6’3″, 195 pounds, One-time All-Star, been the starter on some great teams. Career 12.2 points, 5.6 assists and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 36 percent from the 3-point line.
  • Kris Dunn:
    6’3″, 205 pounds. Former top-five pick in 2016. Career 8.2 points, 4.1 assists and 1.5 steals  per game

I previously wrote about McConnell and why I think he would be an excellent addition to the team. For more of a breakdown, check it out here.  Teague is a former All-Star who has some big-game experience, and Dunn is a good defensive player that would pair while alongside a scoring guard.

The Blazers could also look to trade for a player, but they don’t have too many assets to give up, so I think their best option is to find someone in this free agency class.

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