The Portland Trail Blazers have formally committed to a new-look backcourt. They traded Anfernee Simons for Jrue Holiday, signed Damian Lillard to a three-year deal, and appear ready to give up-and-comers such as Scoot Henderson, Rayan Rupert, and Shaedon Sharpe meaningful playing time.
Unfortunately, the odd man out was Dalano Banton, who'd spent the previous two seasons in Portland but will now continue his career with the Dallas Mavericks.
The Trail Blazers acquired Banton for a second-round draft pick in a 2024 trade with the Boston Celtics. He quickly turned heads by averaging 18.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.