Knicks and Pelicans at odds over McCollum, Blazers “package” will judge trade

The Blazers are in the process of rebuilding, as evidenced by the departures of Powell and Covington, and CJ McCollum is not part of the next-day project.

But since it’s a 20.5-point baseline shooting guard with 38.4% from three points and 4.5 assists per game, even though its numbers are down from last year, it’s an attractive argument for Teams looking for good scorers – players with personality. That is, like the Knicks and Pelicans, which are currently emerging as key competitors for the acquisition of Portland’s McCollum.

The Blazers will do anything to give it. Which will ultimately depend on what prospects will offer them. From players whose contract expires in the summer to well-drafted picks or youngsters with a bright future. You’re not going to “sell” him out just to get rid of him.

McCollum has a guaranteed contract through the summer of 2024 and is expected to receive more than $80 million for that period (half of this year and the next two). It’s definitely a drain in the effort to build their future, but at the same time they have to be “paid well” to be worth losing.