The Portland Trail Blazers currently owe the Chicago Bulls a first round pick the next time they make the NBA Playoffs, the residue of a 2021 trade that brought forward Larry Nance, Jr. to the team. Since the Blazers didn’t make this year’s postseason roundup, they get to hold onto their selection in the 2023 NBA Draft. But the obligation is in place until 2028, making it difficult for General Manager Joe Cronin to move future picks in deals for difference-making players.
The Deal
For those who don’t know, or don’t remember, Cronin’s predecessor Neil Olshey entered into a three way transaction with Chicago and the Cleveland Cavaliers back in ‘21.