The Trailblazers have ended their single-team affiliation with the Idaho Stampede. During Neil Olshey's tenure in Portland, the team did not make extensive use of this relationship. Our GM apparently believes that developing players in-house is the way to go; but it seems to me that Olshey's player-development philosophy doesn't fit ever players' needs.
Meyers Leonard seems to have regressed since his rookie year. He and Allen Crabbe both underwhelmed at the Las Vegas Summer League. The Blazers signed a veteran center and a veteran guard in free agency. McCollum, Barton, T-Rob, and Freeland are all ahead of them developmentally at their respective positions and have earned more playing time. Barring injuries and/or a blockbuster trade, neither Leonard nor Crabbe will see much of the court next season.
It seems like a lot of the Leonard coverage over the past few months has been about what little experience he has actually playing his position (growth spurt in high school, didn't play as a freshman in college, yada-yada-yada). Wes Matthews has told Meyers he'll be fine, that he just needs to play more basketball. It certainly couldn't hurt.
The way I see it, Joel Freeland is the Blazers' fifth big; but, given his expiring contract, I could see the front office trying to trade him for a future asset by mid-season. In the meantime, however, why can't the Blazers send Leonard (and Crabbe) for an extended stint in the D-League?
Do you think a half-season in the D-League could help Leonard (and Crabbe) to develop? Do you think Olshey is right, that in-house player development is the only way to go, or should he adjust this philosophy based on individuals?