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Mitch Lawrence of Sporting News reports that the Portland Trail Blazers want to move up in the draft, citing star point guard Damian Lillard’s desire for a stronger supporting cast. The Trail Blazers possess picks no. 15, 20, and 26 in the first round, and may consider moving current players as well.
Blazers want to acquire lottery pick, as Damian Lillard told team execs he wants/needs better players in his supporting cast, per sources.
— Mitch Lawrence (@Mitch_Lawrence) June 22, 2017
How far they are able to move up, if it all, is yet unknown, but prospects like Florida State forward Jonathan Isaac and Arizona big man Lauri Markkanen may be available toward the end of the top-10 selections. It seems more likely, though, that the Trail Blazers will aim for the 10-14 range, as previously reported by Jonathan Givony of Draft Express.
Teams to keep an eye on potentially trying to move into the 10-14 range tonight:: LA Lakers, Atlanta, Brooklyn, Milwaukee, Portland, Houston
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 22, 2017
If the Trail Blazers have their eye on someone in particular, moving up just a few spots could ensure that prospect’s availability.