Northwest Notebook: Boozer’s Draft Fit, Lillard’s Return, Portland’s Roster Calls, Hartenstein’s Spark
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Cameron Boozer weighs Utah connection ahead of 2026 NBA Draft
Projected top-three pick Cameron Boozer, born in Salt Lake City and the son of former Jazz All-Star Carlos Boozer, could be on the board when Utah selects at No. 2. Although the power forward said most of his father-son talks centered on Chicago, he acknowledged the appeal of joining a franchise where his father spent six seasons and now works in scouting.
Utah already features a sizable frontcourt with Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Walker Kessler. Boozer, who excelled as a play-making big in college, sees himself as the draft’s top talent but stressed that landing in “the best fit” matters more than draft position. Chicago, holding the fourth pick, remains another city he would welcome.
Damian Lillard prepares for on-court return in Portland
Lillard’s first season back with the Trail Blazers produced a Three-Point Contest title but no games played, leaving him to mentor from the bench. One opposing scout questioned how the former MVP candidate complements a roster that already includes Jrue Holiday and Scoot Henderson. Lillard said the year on the sideline let him learn his teammates’ tendencies and identify areas where the club struggles.
Blazers face key offseason decisions
Portland must decide whether to pursue a contract extension with Henderson, the 2023 No. 3 overall pick. Sean Highkin of the Rose Garden Report suggested Shaedon Sharpe’s four-year, $90 million deal as a possible framework. The team is also expected to evaluate the futures of Vit Krejci and Sidy Cissoko, while Robert Williams III and Matisse Thybulle could attract interest from other clubs.
Isaiah Hartenstein delivers size for Thunder
After logging only 12 minutes in Oklahoma City’s Game 1 loss to San Antonio, center Isaiah Hartenstein was told by coach Mark Daigneault he deserved a larger role. In Game 2, Hartenstein guarded Victor Wembanyama for extended stretches, limiting the Spurs star to four shots at the rim compared with 17 in Game 1. The German big man also grabbed eight offensive rebounds, providing the physical presence Daigneault sought.
Source: Hoops Rumors
