A new Blazer era

As expected, the Portland Trail Blazers selected Greg Oden with their number one draft pick in the 2007 NBA draft. When considering the rarity of such an athletic and productive big man, the choice was easy. The Blazers will now be able to build around a frontcourt of LaMarcus Aldridge and Greg ("I look 40 years old")) Oden. Paired with a developing Jarrett Jack and 2006 rookie of the year winner, Brandon Roy, the Blazers have done a complete 180 from two years ago when they were the laughing stock of the league.

On draft night, not only did the GM, Kevin Pritchard, select one of the most highly touted prospects in years, but he found a way to ship out Zach Randolph and clear some cap space. In exchange for Randolp, who will go to the Knicks with teammates Dan Dickau and Fred Jones, the Blazers will receive Channing Frye and Steve Francis. It is believed that Francis's contract will be bought out, thus leaving the point guard job to Jack and emerging Sergio (the Spanish gypsy, magician) Rodriguez. Channing Frye, meanwhile, will back up Aldridge and split time with Oden while he develops.