ESPN Panel Sees Blazers As Sellers, Not Buyers During Trade Season

Four out of five ESPN.com and TrueHoop Network panelists view the Portland Trail Blazers as sellers rather than buyers during the upcoming trade season.

A sampling of the thoughts.

David Hopkins, The Two Man Game: Buyers. Can Portland build a team around LaMarcus Aldridge, Damian Lillard and Wesley Matthews? Sure, if the NBA played 3-on-3. But Portland's supporting cast needs some work. These are minor tweaks, but every little bit helps to stay relevant in the Western Conference.

Jeremy Schmidt, Bucksketball: Sellers. Portland shouldn't let this season's modest success ruin a good plan. Bring in as much young talent as possible and sort it out later. Damian Lillard's terrific rookie season should serve as a daily reminder of the fruits the high lottery can bring. Portland wouldn't be foolish to sell high on the likes of J.J. Hickson and Wes Matthews.

Brian Windhorst, ESPN.com: Sellers. But not big time. The Blazers are on the fringe of the playoffs and I'm sure there will be a temptation to add a piece to help out. But they are developing some young players and have cap flexibility coming up they may not want to sacrifice to sneak into the last playoff spot.

Thanks to tyeforshee in the FanShots as well.

-- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | Twitter