FanPost

not the time to play it safe

Nolan Smith was the safe pick, no way around it.  His skill set (shooting, pg skills, defense) is average and his experience makes him bankable.  He's a backup point guard, sorry Nate, who doesn't project as a starter in any way.

Now, if the team had just lost the WCF and was getting a healthy Oden back I could see playing it safe with the 21st pick and getting a guy who you know will produce.  But the Blazers didn't get close to the WCF and this team still needs talent.  

Players like Jackson or Morris, or even a Jeremy Tyler type  (later in the draft)  have untapped talent, they also have question marks.  For this team to truly compete at the highest level, I felt they needed to swing for the fences and get some talent, even if it left things a bit uncertain.  They obviously disagree.

The only upside I see is that the team is loaded with assets (especially if Deibler goes to Europe).  Those assets strengthen their position pulling off a deal in next year's draft (or the deadline this year).  With Felton and Smith seemingly locked in the starter and backup role at the 1, the team is in a good position where they can focus on the remaining need...a big.  Plumlee anyone ?