The Portland Trail Blazers’ backcourt became significantly more crowded after the team obtained Ja Morant from the Memphis Grizzlies. With Morant joining Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, minutes will be at a premium.
According to SI.com, head coach Chauncey Billups is expected to start Morant alongside Lillard. That configuration could shift Sharpe—who averaged a career-high 20.8 points last season—into a sixth-man role. Henderson could also be on the move if Portland looks to balance its roster with additional wing depth.
Clippers Add Hachimura
The Los Angeles Clippers bolstered their frontcourt by signing Rui Hachimura to a two-year, $28 million contract. The move not only fills the power-forward vacancy created by John Collins’ departure but also pulls a key contributor away from the rival Los Angeles Lakers. Hachimura provides size, perimeter shooting and playoff experience to a Clippers squad reshaping itself after parting ways with Kawhi Leonard.
Middleton’s Reduced Role in Washington
Khris Middleton is returning to the Washington Wizards, though this time as veteran depth rather than a mainstay in the starting lineup. The organization plans to continue prioritizing heavy minutes for its young wings—A.J. Dybantsa, Bilal Coulibaly, Kyshawn George and Will Riley—while using Middleton for shooting, passing and locker-room leadership.
Washington started Middleton last season in part to boost his trade value, but his responsibilities are expected to be scaled back as the franchise focuses on player development.
Source: Hoops Wire
