PORTLAND – The Portland Trail Blazers made waves at the NBA Draft, defying expectations with a bold move that left fans and analysts buzzing. Portland’s front office, led by General Manager Joe Cronin, traded their No. 11 pick for future assets and the No. 16 selection, ultimately choosing Yang Hansen, a relatively unknown 7-foot-1 center from China.
Immediate Impact
This decision comes on the heels of a controversial trade earlier in the week, further solidifying the Blazers’ reputation for unconventional strategies. The selection of Hansen, who was projected by many mock drafts to be a second-round pick, has drawn mixed reactions from the basketball community.
Key Details Emerge
During a press conference following the draft, Cronin acknowledged the unconventional nature of the pick but expressed confidence in the team’s scouting process. “For us, it was too important to get him,” Cronin stated. “We decided to do what some would call a reach. We decided to take that swing.”
“It’s extremely difficult to find a young player of that stature with this skillset,” Cronin said. “Really, really skilled big men that can do all the things that he can do typically succeed in our league.”
By the Numbers
The Blazers’ scouting team has been tracking Hansen since 2023. Last season with the Qingdao Eagles in the Chinese Basketball Association, Hansen averaged:
- 16.6 points per game
- 10.5 rebounds per game
- 3.0 assists per game
- 2.6 blocks per game
- Shooting 58.6% from the field
- Shooting 33.3% on 3-pointers
His performance earned him a spot as a CBA All-Star for the second consecutive year and the title of CBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2024.
Industry Response
Despite the Blazers’ confidence, the decision has been met with skepticism. Draft grades from various media outlets have not been kind, and fan reactions suggest a division in opinion. The selection of Hansen, who was not a prominent name in pre-draft discussions, has left many questioning the team’s strategy.
A source from the Denver Nuggets texted NBA reporter Jake Fischer, describing Hansen as “Chinese Jokic,” a reference to the reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic.
Background Context
The Blazers’ interest in Hansen began when a scout identified him at an under-18 event in 2023. Assistant GMs Mike Schmitz and Sergi Oliva traveled to China to evaluate him, returning impressed with his skills and potential. Although the Blazers hoped to draft him last year, Hansen chose to remain in China for another season.
What Comes Next
The Blazers’ front office is optimistic about Hansen’s future in the NBA, despite the current controversy. Cronin emphasized the potential for Hansen to adapt to the league’s pace and develop into a significant player. “As he figures out the speed and pace of our game and all these things, I wouldn’t put a ceiling on him. He’s that talented,” Cronin concluded.
Only time will reveal if this bold gamble will pay dividends for Portland. The decision to select Hansen may be seen as visionary or misguided, depending on his development and the success of players passed over in the draft.
In the meantime, the Blazers ask for patience from their fanbase, trusting that their calculated risks will lead to future success.
