We pushed for the Blazers to make a move in Smack, and it appears they’ve done something to clean up the mess of a season they’ve created. Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports reports Portland is sending Gerald Wallace to New Jersey for Mehmet Okur, Shawne Williams and a protected 2012 first-round pick.
The 2012 first rounder is actually only top-three protected this summer, meaning the Blazers will get that pick in this loaded draft if it falls anywhere from the fourth selection and on.
Just from a basketball perspective, Wallace brings some athleticism and toughness for a New Jersey team that’s been relying all year on journeymen at the wing spots. He’s no longer the player he was three or four years ago, but when you’re struggling to keep your star player content, he doesn’t have to be.
For Portland, this is a sure sign they’re committed to Nic Batum at the three spot, a reversal from where most thought they stood even earlier this year. And then of course, there’s that potential draft pick, which could turn into one of next year’s best rookies.
What do you think?
Follow Sean on Twitter at @SEANesweeney.
Follow Dime on Twitter at @DimeMag.
Become a fan of Dime Magazine on Facebook HERE.
