Portland Trail Blazers Ranked 18th in NBA Power Rankings Amid Ownership Concerns

Bleacher Report released its NBA power rankings projecting team strength over the next three years, factoring in current ability and future potential. The Portland Trail Blazers, featuring Israeli player Deni Avdija, were ranked 18th, indicating no expected leap to contender status in the near future. The report highlights that Ja Morant is expected to be Portland's highest-paid player over the next two seasons, but his salary could act as a cap constraint, limiting roster flexibility despite his potential value.

The Blazers' roster composition is described as guard-heavy with insufficient shooting to support Avdija's playing style, which relies on driving to the basket. Despite the presence of promising talents like Avdija, Donovan Klingen, Scott Henderson, and Shaedon Sharpe, the report tempers optimism due to owner Tom Dundon’s extreme frugality. Dundon’s cost-cutting approach may restrict player salaries and alienate fans with threats to relocate the team.

Brooklyn Nets, with Israeli executives Ben Sherf and Danny Wolf, were ranked 28th, noted for having a good coach in Jordi Fernandez and manageable contracts but still struggling with losses. The top teams in the rankings are San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder, and the reigning champions New York Knicks, ranked first, second, and third respectively.

The rankings underscore uncertainty around Portland’s future, especially regarding Morant’s impact and ownership’s financial approach, which could hinder the team’s progress despite its talent pool.