Malcolm Brogdon has entered into new territory after being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. For the most part, he has been a great role player for the various organizations he has competed for in the past. But this time he’s in for serious work and is determined to make good use of his time in Portland for however long his tenure lasts. The Blazers are on a good path if their players are motivated and it doesn’t seem like they need to worry about Brogdon.
The 30-year-old had an incredible season coming off the bench for the Boston Celtics. He averaged 14.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game and won the Sixth Man of the Year Award. However, he is no stranger to being successful. He also won the Rookie of the Year Award in 2017. But based on what the Blazers have been trying to do lately, people have been spreading rumors that Brogdon isn’t there long-term.
Malcolm Brogdon says he hopes to remain with the Trail Blazers 👀
“They want me here, I want to be here. There’s a lot of misleading information out there about ‘They need to trade me’ or ‘I want to go’… I’m embracing being here.”
(via @CHold) pic.twitter.com/CMPwZ3I3UH
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 5, 2023
During the Blazers’ media day, he said, “They want me here, I want to be here. There’s a lot of misleading information out there about ‘They need to trade me’ or ‘I want to go.’ Right now, I’m trying to make the most of my opportunity, that’s really what it is.”
Malcolm Brogdon will be playing alongside a set of players who are itching to have a breakout season. It is safe to say the Blazers are in good hands with Deandre Ayton, Anfernee Simons, Jerami Grant, and Scoot Henderson on the team as well.
Malcolm Brogdon looks forward to assuming his new role with the Blazers
Malcolm Brogdon will be playing under a familiar face and it is good that he already has a relationship with Blazers coach, Chauncey Billups. “A guy like Malcolm, he brings so much stability and poise and is just a grown-up. Played a long time, played some important basketball. He just brings a calmness to you. Just what I thought because I know him,” said Billups.
Malcolm and Billups have worked together in the past when the point guard played for the Milwaukee Bucks. They also made a trip together to Africa for the Basketball Without Boarders program. While Brogdan admits being traded is tough, being able to work with Billups gives him a sense of comfort. Brogdon is also excited to possibly take on the role of a leader for the Blazers.
“Being myself, I feel like I’m a leader at heart. I learned a lot from my Indiana days, being with young guys, but this team is even younger. Now I’m three, four years past those days so I feel like I’m better suited for this position at this point in my career. I can still play, I can still go, but I look forward to doing this with these guys,” he said.
Malcolm Brogdon will most likely be a start for the team. There are a few aspects of his game that will benefit the Blazers. He is a great two-way guard with a fairly high baskketball IQ. Brogdon and Ayton will make a great team in the pick-and-roll as well.