Giving away Gary Trent Jr. in exchange for Norman Powell was a questionable move for the Portland Trail Blazers, especially for their long-term future. Moreover, the team signed Powell to a five-year, $90 million deal in the offseason. The guards of the Trail Blazers became even more undersized with this trade and their defense has been atrocious even with the acquisition of Powell.

He brings a ton of energy and scoring boost, but a 6'3″ guy does not address the team's other issues at all. As Damian Lillard is recovering from abdominal surgery, along with exploring deals for the expiring contracts of Robert Covington and Jusuf Nurkic, there is not much incentive for the Trail Blazers to compete in the play-in tournament and try reaching the NBA Playoffs.

With Rip City in a rebuilding phase, the roster should be reconstructed by acquiring bigger and better defenders.

Three Best Trade Destinations for Norman Powell

Indiana Pacers

Receiving Domantas Sabonis as the centerpiece of a Powell trade would be ideal for the Trail Blazers, but that might be too ambitious. The Pacers know that Sabonis is a two-time All-Star, so they would prefer a player with All-Star talent as well. As a result, inquiring on Myles Turner and Caris LeVert for a few of the pieces that would include Powell could work well for both sides.

Both organizations are trying to revitalize their roster in any way, shape, or form. Lillard has expressed his intention to stay in Rip City, so the squad must still add new pieces that would complement his style of play. It is already evident that the current composition of the lineup does not flourish well under the leadership of Lillard and CJ McCollum.

Dallas Mavericks

Under the tutelage of Jason Kidd, the Dallas Mavericks have increased their defensive intensity and ferocity compared to the tenure of Rick Carlisle. The offensive struggles of their shooters, however, continue to be magnified like Tim Hardaway Jr. and Reggie Bullock. Moreover, the shot creators in their lineup are limited to Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson.

Goran Dragic has been rumored to move to the Mavericks at some point to aid in the point guard duties, but the 28-year-old Powell is another skillful athlete who could shore up the squad's wings. Also, Powell has that fearless and relentless attitude on both ends of the court and this could give him increased responsibilities with the Mavericks. When Hardaway is struggling, Powell could be a better option because of his ability to create shots for himself and others.

New Orleans Pelicans

Any fan would know that the Pelicans have plummeted this year because of the absence of Zion Williamson. Brandon Ingram has been carrying the offensive load once again, but he would benefit from the acquisition of Powell. Josh Hart would be the attractive commodity who could blossom with the Trail Blazers.

Powell and Hart could be interchangeable in this situation as this could be advantageous for both individuals. When Williamson returns, Powell could start alongside Devonte' Graham in the Pelicans backcourt as a slasher and shot creator. With Graham's lack of defensive prowess, Powell would be more than willing to accept the defensive role while still being a force on the offensive side of the court.

Even with the three aforementioned teams, it would be difficult for the Trail Blazers to negotiate and trade Powell because of his contract. After this season, the commitment will still be for four more seasons with the last year at $20 million. His undersized stature could be a glaring weakness as a shooting guard or small forward, but there will be teams that would take a chance on a talented individual entering his prime.