I know that people want a quick fix to bring the Blazers into contention, but the notion that trading CJ is going to get the job done is misguided, IMO. First, nothing that Olshey can do is going to make the Warriors, Cavs, Celtics, Rockets or worse. Those teams have the inside track for the next 2-3 seasons. I don't think that there's any trade available for CJ or any other Blazer player that's going to change that fact. It's going to be an incremental process. Solidifying the bench is just a first step that could, perhaps, get the Blazers into the 4th or 5th seed and avoid the inevitable quick first round exit that a 7 or 8 seed will get them. From there, Olshey is going to have to look hard at which of his young guys have the potential to become a true impact player. Nurkic certainly has room to get better. Hopefully, Collins does too. I like Vonleh, but has he hit his ceiling? I don't think anyone is holding their breath for Harkless to become consistent. Swanigan looks to be a project and may not be more than a role player.
Ultimately, Olshey will have to make a move that will involve trading a valuable asset. CJ looks like the most likely candidate right now, but that could change and there's certainly no rush to make that move given that the best scenario for this team is probably a 6th seed in this year's playoffs. Given his recent play, I think the Blazers would be selling low if they trade him right now. There could be other moves that would allow the Blazers to keep their "sort of Big Three" and simply add another player through a combination trade of some of their younger talent. This isn't going to be quick, and ultimately it may not work out at all, but I favor an incremental improvement plan over some idea of a home run trade this season or the dreaded liquidation sale and total rebuild.
