Mystery abounds in the Blazers' front office as GM Kevin Pritchard tries to work a little last-minute magic on draft day.
After trading straight cash to the Hornets for another first round pick, we're left scratching our heads now more than ever.
But the one thing Blazers' fans can take comfort in is that no other GM in the league does more finagling than Pritchard. And if the amount of time he spends on his cell phone is any indication, rest assured he's exploring every possible option. Not to mention that fact that his penchant for picking the right players has earned him the nickname "golden gut" by owner Paul Allen.
This year's draft, however, presents Pritchard with a much different scenario than years past. The Blazers' young squad will have to suffer a casualty or two if they want to become a legit playoff contender. So where do we begin?
Point blank, the Blazers need a point guard. As much as we all love Steve Blake, they need someone with a little more quickness and athleticism to open up the floor. Jarrett Jack is too inconsistent. (Rumor has it, some dude named Chauncy could potentially become available. A guy can dream, right?)
Another small forward wouldn't hurt either. The question Pritchard has to ask himself is whether he wants to keep Outlaw and Webster around another year and wait for them to mature. Each had their moments of brilliance last year. But does this young team need veteran stability at this position? If so, who? Which mysterious Eastern conference team is supposedly dangling a deal?
Until tonight, all we can do is guess how this draft will play itself out for the Blaze. But one thing's for certain: Pritchard isn't afraid play his hand.
Keywords: Portland Trail Blazers
