Portland Still Shopping Fernandez
With a plethora of talent on the roster, including starting guards Andre Miller and Brandon Roy and backups Jerryd Bayless, Wes Matthews to play along with rookies Elliot Williams and Armon Johnson, there is seemingly not enough minutes to go around for third-year guard Rudy Fernandez. The team looks to be actively shopping the Spaniard, who averaged 8.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 23 minutes per game last season.
Although Fernandez has expressed a desire to return to Europe to play, the Trail Blazers have been linked to the Knicks, the strongest suitor, Boston and Chicago. Fernandez fits right into Head Coach Mike D'Antoni's fast-paced system with his ability to play either guard spot, while also filling in the wing spots in transition. Chicago is the least likely scenario for the Trail Blazers and Fernandez as the team has signed Kyle Korver, Ronnie Brewer and C.J. Watson this offseason. The Bulls are still looking into bringing in Tracy McGrady as backcourt option as well. The Celtics are another team in question with the recent re-signing of Nate Robinson and 2010 1st Round draft pick, Avery Bradley on board.
So now that the Knicks seem like the most likely trade partner for Portland, what pieces would they be willing to give up? Wilson Chandler is a popular name mentioned in the rumor mill, not just because of his talents, but also because he is an expiring contract at the end of next season. The Knicks would likely be looking for another piece from Portland as well.
Chandler averaged a career-high 15.3 points to go along with 5.4 rebounds last season.
By President - Corey Ruff - 7-28-10
