In a recent article evaluating the three-year outlook for all 30 NBA teams, ESPN ranked the Portland Trail Blazers 20th in the league overall.
The criteria used to measure franchises were players, management, future draft assets, cap situation, and reputation of the city and franchise.
The only category in which the Blazers were judged to be above-average was future draft assets, where they ranked seventh. Writer Zach Kram noted, “The Trail Blazers are in excellent position… as they hold the rights
to the rebuilding Bucks’ first-round picks in 2028, 2029 and 2030.”
ESPN was not so high on Portland management. The Blazers were ranked ahead of the Kings, Clippers, and Pelicans in that department. The main factors weighing Portland down were “the actions and posturing of new owner Tom Dundon.”
The network’s bold prediction for the Blazers followed suit, with Ben Golliver warning us of a possible future where Scoot Henderson finds success on another team. Despite the point guard’s struggles throughout his young career, Golliver still holds out hope, telling us, “While the 22-year-old guard might never blossom into a star, he has the size and physical tools to enjoy a long career if he can land in a more stable environment.”
In short, ESPN’s assessment was a mixed bag for the Blazers. Portland will look to improve on their 42-win total from last year. The four-letter network seems skeptical about their ability to actually do it.
What do you think? Was 20th out of 30 teams too low of an assessment, about right, or is ESPN not even telling the whole story? Share your thoughts in the comments.
