Like many teams and observers, the Blazers knew that this 2024 Draft could hold surprises and that there were few certainties. “It was really hard to predict what was going to happen between the 3rd and 6th picks.”, explains Portland GMJoe Cronin, after drafting Donovan Clingan.
Then, in seventh place, the Blazers had to speak and, as the leader assures, by betting on the former pivot from Connecticut, “it was one of the easiest choices to make”.
“Donovan Clingan was a player that we highly regarded. We think he’s going to be a great asset to this franchise for a lot of reasons.”adds Joe Cronin, before expanding. “For the man he is, the player he is. The defensive prowess he can bring. The winning mentality. His future looks very bright.”
Donovan Clingan, more than a defender
The Blazers are not only emphasizing the former Huskies’ defensive qualities (13 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 blocks on average this season in the NCAA), but also his offensive abilities.
“He is quite comfortable offensively, with a good touch on the ball,” notes the head of the Oregon franchise. “Shooting in the NBA is complicated, difficult, even for guards. He has a lot of work to do, but I like his hands, his precision and his overall qualities. I also think he’s an underrated passer. »
While he will compete with Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams, Donovan Clingan is not the only reinforcement recorded by Portland in recent days since Deni Avdija also arrives, in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon. “The transfer has been announced but I cannot talk about it in a press conference”specified Joe Cronin, because some details remain to be finalized.
But the GM can still be pleased with the arrival of the former Wizards winger. “Being clearly more physical, more athletic and powerful has been our priority and I think we are now”he concludes.
2024-06-30 11:45:43
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