BLAZERS BOLSTER DEPTH, STEAL PLUMLEE IN 4-PLAYER DRAFT SWAP
The Portland Trail Blazers acquired forward-center Mason Plumlee and swingman Pat Connaughton (drafted No. 41 overall) from the Brooklyn Nets for combo forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (drafted No. 23 overall) and point guard Steve Blake.
What does it give the Portland Trail Blazers
This is simply a steal of a deal for the Blazers. Not only do they get a rising star big man in Plumlee (who might be able to replace LaMarcus Aldridge, should the latter leave via free agency), they pick up an underrated potential rotation player in Connaughton. The aging Blake likely didn't fit into Portland's plans as it was, and while Hollis-Jefferson is a talent he's more of a combo forward than a post guy (which was the need here). Great trade for Portland.
What does it give the Brooklyn Nets
This isn't a great move by Brooklyn. They'll likely regret giving up on Plumlee (one of their best, most energetic, and youngest players) and the aging Blake doesn't look likely to help much. Meanwhile they miss out on the super-athletic Connaughton. While Hollis-Jefferson is a talented and athletic player too, it may take him awhile to push for starts as a pro.
Fantasy impact
Plumlee is worth drafting in the middle rounds of many fantasy leagues if Aldridge doesn't return to Portland. Meanwhile Connaughton is worth keeping on the deep sleeper radar, since he's incredibly athletic and fairly NBA-ready. Hollis-Jefferson is more of an option for keeper leagues at this point, and Blake should not be targeted in most (if any) fantasy formats.
