NBA Rumors: The Portland Trail Blazers set their sights on 5 shooters to strengthen the team

The Portland Trail Blazers took a significant step forward this season by returning to the playoffs for the first time in five years. Led by the breakout performance of Deni Avdija and supported by a solid defensive system, the Blazers have established themselves as one of the teams with the greatest growth potential in the NBA.

However, according to Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report, the franchise still needs to strengthen a key aspect this summer to continue evolving. “Avdija's drives to the hoop were devastatingly effective throughout the season. Imagine how much more dangerous they would be if Portland had shooters capable of drawing defenders away,” Hughes points out. While Damian Lillard will be available again next season, there is a feeling that the team needs to add more outside threat.

Rui Hachimura, a very interesting option

The Los Angeles Lakers forward will enter the market as an unrestricted free agent. His three-point shooting performance over the last three seasons has been outstanding, reaching an impressive 44.3% accuracy this season. His profile would fit perfectly with Portland's need to surround Avdija with more space and outside shooting.

Harrison Barnes seeking a new destination

The emergence of Julian Champagnie and rookie Carter Bryant has left Harrison Barnes out of the San Antonio Spurs' rotation in these playoffs, and it seems he will seek a new team in free agency. Nevertheless, the veteran forward maintained a solid 38.8% in three-point shooting during the regular season, a figure very close to his career averages.

A Reunion Between Lillard and McCollum?

CJ McCollum is another possibility for Portland. The shooting guard shared ball-handling duties with Damian Lillard for years, and a reunion would be one of the most striking moves of the summer. However, the presence of Jrue Holiday and Scoot Henderson on the perimeter could lead to a significant accumulation of wing players.

Norman Powell, Another Familiar Face

Another potential returnee could be Norman Powell. Although primarily a shooting guard, he has also played as a small forward in the past, especially during his previous stint in Portland. Additionally, he would provide a reliable perimeter threat with a 39.5% three-point shooting accuracy throughout his career.

Luke Kennard, the NBA's Premier Three-Point Shooter

Luke Kennard is also among the targets for the Blazers. The Lakers will look to re-sign the shooting guard after his tremendous impact as an offensive specialist this season. Kennard led the entire NBA in three-point shooting percentage with an impressive 47.8%. Although Portland already has numerous perimeter threats, his ability to stretch the floor would be crucial in creating even more space for Deni Avdija.