The Portland Trail Blazers need to rethink their approach to rookie center Donovan Clingan. With Deandre Ayton sidelined for at least four weeks due to a left calf strain, Clingan has stepped into the starting role and delivered. He put up 21 points in 21 minutes in his first major opportunity and followed that up with an even stronger performance: 17 points, 20 rebounds (10 offensive), and three blocks in 31 minutes against the Denver Nuggets. Despite these impressive numbers, the Blazers have not fully committed to Clingan as their primary center. They continue to prioritize veterans like Ayton and Robert Williams III. However, Clingan’s recent play suggests that the team should embrace his development rather than delay it.
Time For The Trail Blazers To Reverse Their Donovan Clingan Decision
The Blazers Are Stuck Between Rebuilding and Competing
Portland’s front office, led by general manager Joe Cronin, has sent mixed signals about the team’s direction. The Trail Blazers are in a rebuild, but they held onto their veterans at the trade deadline. They opted not to trade Ayton, Jerami Grant, Anfernee Simons, Robert Williams III, or Matisse Thybulle, despite significant interest around the league.
NBA insiders criticized this decision. “It’s bonkers,” ESPN’s Tim Bontemps said. “They went through the trade deadline and didn’t move anybody. It’s crazy.” The Blazers’ approach suggests they believe their current core can still compete, even as they sit near the bottom of the Western Conference.
Ayton’s Absence Creates an Opportunity
Ayton played well before his injury, averaging 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and one block per game in 40 starts. During the Blazers’ recent 10-1 stretch, he elevated his play, averaging 19.4 points, 11.8 rebounds, one steal and one block while shooting 58.6% from the field.
However, Clingan has shown flashes of being a better long-term fit. The rookie is already an elite shot-blocker, ranking in the 100th percentile for block percentage. He forces opponents to shoot 12.1% worse than league average when defending the rim, placing him in the 97th percentile among all NBA players. He has done all this in just 16.3 minutes of action per game and 11 starts.
Clingan’s rebounding has also been elite. He ranks in the 89th percentile for offensive rebounding rate, consistently creating second-chance opportunities. While his offensive game remains limited, he has shown promise as a roll man and passer, skills he developed under Dan Hurley at UConn.
Williams’ Injury History Should Not Block Clingan’s Growth
Williams III remains a key part of Portland’s rotation, but injuries have plagued his career. He has played just 19 games this season and remains day-to-day with knee soreness. The Blazers need to manage his minutes carefully, which makes starting Clingan an even more logical choice.
If Clingan continues to play well, the Blazers could showcase Williams to teams that need frontcourt help. A healthy Williams could attract trade interest from contenders, potentially landing Portland future assets in the offseason.
Donovan Clingan’s Development Should Be a Priority for the Trail Blazers
Head coach Chauncey Billups’ future remains uncertain, with the final year of his contract in 2025-26 being a team option. Regardless of who leads the team next year, Clingan’s development should be a top priority.
The rookie has already proven he can impact games defensively. If the Blazers commit to his growth, he could become an elite rim protector for years to come. In a draft class without clear All-NBA talent, Clingan has the potential to be a rare All-Defensive Teamer.
Portland must take advantage of Ayton’s absence and give Clingan consistent playing time. His growth could help shape the team’s future, making the decision to start him an easy one.
