The Portland Trail Blazers are in a pivotal position with two lottery picks in the upcoming NBA Draft. With the 7th and 14th overall selections, they have the potential to reshape their roster significantly. Let’s dive into CBS Sports’ latest mock draft by Kyle Boone to see who the Portland Trail Blazers might be eyeing.
Stephon Castle: The Surprise Slip
No. 7 Pick – Stephon Castle, UConn
In a surprising twist, Stephon Castle slips to the 7th pick, which is a boon for the Portland Trail Blazers. Castle has been adamant about playing point guard at the NBA level, despite making sacrifices at UConn. His fit alongside Scoot Henderson as a secondary playmaker and defensive asset is too good to pass up.
Castle’s versatility and defensive prowess make him an ideal addition to the Blazers’ backcourt.
Ja’Kobe Walter: The Athletic Sharpshooter
No. 14 Pick (via Warriors) – Ja’Kobe Walter, Baylor
Ja’Kobe Walter showcased his five-star potential during his stint at Baylor, displaying a blend of athleticism and quick-trigger shooting. Although he needs to refine his shooting and overall touch, his youth and track record as a prolific scorer make him an attractive prospect at the back of the lottery.
At just 19, Walter’s upside is tremendous, and he could develop into a key piece for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Balancing Talent and Needs
While adding two guards may seem counterintuitive given the Portland Trail Blazers‘ current roster, the early stages of their rebuild necessitate acquiring the best available talent. Castle and Walter both offer significant upside and could form a dynamic backcourt duo with existing players.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The Portland Trail Blazers community has mixed feelings about these potential picks. Some fans are excited about the talent and potential these players bring, while others are concerned about the roster’s balance.
What’s Next for the Portland Trail Blazers?
As the draft approaches, the Portland Trail Blazers‘ front office will continue to evaluate their options. The possibility of trading one of the picks for a more established player or additional assets remains on the table. Regardless, the focus will be on building a competitive team for the future.
