Portland Trail Blazers general manager Neil Olshey was bluntly succinct during Kent Bazemore's introductory press conference on Wednesday, noting “there are not going to be fireworks on July 1” — pointing to the start of free agency, according to Casey Holdahl of Blazers.com.
Historically, the Blazers have had a tough time attracting stars to Portland, mostly drafting and developing their own talent, like many other smaller market teams often do.
While Rip City should deserve more eyes in light of their recent Western Conference Finals appearance, it's more likely Olshey will choose to make deals to bolster this roster, such as the recent trade for Bazemore, which saw Evan Turner go to the Atlanta Hawks.
“A lot of our transactions are going to come by trade,” said Olshey.
The Blazers have done their first with Baze, a player capable of three-and-D potential, as he showed in the 2017-18 season by shooting 39.4% from deep and nabbing 1.5 steals per game.
Bazemore will wear his signature No. 24 jersey, one he didn't have to compensate a young Anfernee Simons for, merely asking the equipment manager for it.
The lefty wing promise to “take care” of Simons later for his generosity, though no negotiation was required for this agreement.
Olshey will likely have to keep his eyes peeled for second- and third-tier free agents available in the market, as well as potential trade opportunities, considering the Blazers were right on the door of an NBA Finals appearance.
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