Evan Turner is gone!
The veteran was traded today to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for veteran Kent Bazemore. Both players are on expiring contracts, so why even make the move if you're Portland? Good question. Here are a few thoughts:
- Bazemore is a versatile wing who can play at the 2 or the 3. This provides insurance if Rodney Hood leaves via free agency.
- Bazemore is a much better three-point shooter than Turner, so when he is on the floor he will provide better spacing.
- He should be a more attractive piece if Portland decides to move him before the trade deadline.
- And with Turner in Atlanta, it will open up more minutes for Anfernee Simons at the backup point guard spot.
Elsewhere, the Trail Blazers introduced their draft pick Nassir Little to the media. His story is a good one. I caught up with him after the press conference to discuss his path to the NBA, hard work, and what it was like when he saw his name on the locker next to Dame and CJ.
You can hear my conversation with Little and his thoughts on the Evan Turner trade on the latest episode of the "What's Chad Doing" podcast.
Listen here-