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End of an Era
End of an era
Just like that, for the first time in NSL history, the Portland Trailblazers will no longer be considered a title threat.
After averaging over 70 wins over the first four seasons of NSL history, and either winning the title or making the Western Conference Finals in each of the four seasons, the Blazers� wins arrow is firmly pointing down.
However, and perhaps most surprisingly, it was purposefully pushed that way by a Front Office who clearly has different ideas as to what is best for Portland organisation, today. Today, it�s not titles, it�s not maniacal single-mindedness about winning and constructing rosters.
It's just about� change.
Portland turned heads with some very surprising downgrade moves across the off-season, headlined by Andre Drummond and Kevin Durant being moved for picks. Whilst these moves at the time were hopefully clever pivots, the straw had broken the camel�s back and by the time the season arrived, Portland were no longer the Portland of old.
This may appear confusing, because the Blazers post a great record as of this moment, but this team absolutely was not going to win a title. And that�s a very tough pill to swallow for a Front Office, a team and a fanbase that knows no other way.
After much deliberation, many sleepless nights and calls to confidantes, the plan was set in motion: re-tool. The easiest way to get more pieces in, is to trade the best pieces you have. In the end, both superstars were traded within a few weeks of each other.
LeBron James, arguably the greatest player of all time, ended his year-long tenure as a Trail Blazer. Sadly, he didn�t win the ring he set out to.
Now, without a lynchpin, a superstar to lead the team, the team resets their goals, their roster and their expectations. For the first time in NSL history, the Blazers will be on the other side, looking in, and up. Thankfully, it wasn�t forced upon the team, but a conscious, difficult decision, to pivot.
Good, bad, or otherwise � real change is upon us.
It�s best not to look back. But when Blazers� fans do, hopefully it�s with great pride on the dominant run from 2019-2023.
In totality, since the season began, here are the ins and outs for the Portland franchise:
Out | In |
Caris Levert | D�Angelo Russell |
Olivier Maxence-Prosper | Aaron Black |
James Bouknight | |
Five second-round picks | Four first-round picks |
| Four pick swap rights |
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