Feb 10, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) controls the ball as Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) guards in the first quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images / Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
The Trail Blazers are winning the Deandre Ayton trade, as a former second-round draft pick has surprisingly become the most valuable asset in the entire deal.
With Deandre Ayton sidelined, rookie Donovan Clingan has stepped up, showing the defensive presence and rebounding dominance the Blazers have been missing. As he continues to shine, Portland may have a major decision to make about its long-term frontcourt plans.
Oklahoma City Thunder coach Mark Daigneault wasn't overly concerned about his team's sluggish defensive start after the All-Star break.
The Portland Trail Blazers are trying to make a late run to the playoffs. They declared their intentions to do that after they didn't make a single move at the trade deadline despite being seen as sellers.