The Portland Trail Blazers are expected to pursue Oklahoma City Thunder forward Danilo Gallinari, despite the recent signing of Carmelo Anthony last month, according to Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer.
Gallo was the second-best option available at power forward after Kevin Love, who recently became available in talks after the Cleveland Cavaliers decided to “listen” to trade offers.
Gallinari is the cheaper contract at an expiring $22.6 million compared to Love's $30 million a year contract that runs until 2023, one that could offer the Blazers a kick in 3-point shooting.
The Italian sniper would likely slide into the starting lineup alongside Melo, with the two players manning the forward spots in the wake of Rodney Hood's torn ACL. Portland could also choose to bring one of the two vets off the bench for some scoring punch.
The 31-year-old is averaging a solid 18.3 points and 5.7 rebounds for a Thunder squad contending for a playoff spot, which could help boost the offense. But neither he nor Love would do much for the Blazers on defense — something they've struggled with for the entire season.
However, if Portland is in a gambling mood, it can't go wrong with an expiring contract, considering the team is tax-bound either way with the highest payroll in the league.
The Blazers have had their eye on Gallinari for a while and the Thunder are willing to move him, but the next few weeks should tell enough if there is actually any traction for these two teams to make a deal.
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