Blazers Acquire Franchise-Altering Player After Hornets’ Major Blunder
The Charlotte Hornets recently made headlines for their surprising decision during the 2024 NBA Draft. Instead of selecting Donovan Clingan, they opted for French prospect Tidjane Salaun with the sixth overall pick. This controversial choice allowed the Portland Trail Blazers to swoop in and secure Clingan at the seventh spot, a move that could alter the franchise’s trajectory.
Clingan: A Risk Worth Taking
Donovan Clingan entered the draft with significant accolades, having just won back-to-back NCAA national championships. At 7-foot-2 and 280 pounds, he was recognized for his elite rebounding and rim protection abilities. Though not projected to have a high offensive ceiling, his consistent floor made him one of the safest bets in the draft.
Blazers Capitalize on Hornets’ Blunder
The 2024 draft class was considered weak, leading many to believe Clingan could have been a contender for the No. 1 overall pick. Sean Highkin from The Rose Garden Report suggested that Clingan was at the top of the Blazers’ draft board. The team successfully acquired him without trading up, benefiting from other teams’ established centers.
Immediate Impact
Clingan has already exceeded expectations in his brief NBA career. During his rookie season, he averaged 6.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game. This performance earned him All-Rookie honors, making him the first Blazer since Damian Lillard in 2013 to achieve this milestone.
Continued Growth
This season, Clingan’s contributions have only improved. He averages 25.7 minutes per game, partly due to his increased role following Deandre Ayton’s buyout. His ability to make smart plays and shoot from beyond the arc at 2.8 attempts per game adds depth to his game.
- Draft Position: Clingan – 7th overall
- Draft Position: Salaun – 6th overall
- Rookie Averages: 6.5 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.6 BPG
- All-Rookie Honors: Yes
The Hornets hoped that selecting Salaun would bring out his untapped potential. However, Clingan has already become the kind of franchise-altering player Charlotte was seeking. As a result, the Hornets’ mistake has turned into a significant advantage for the Blazers, solidifying Clingan’s role as a pivotal piece of their team.
