The Portland Trail Blazers bench is much improved from the last two years, however it still needs alot of work. Blazers' coach Terry Stotts did not feel comfortable enough with his bench to give any of them significant playing time, other than veteran Mo Williams.
Williams has now opted out of his contract, stating that he would like to sign a three year deal, worth slightly more than his previous contract. With his opt-out the Blazers have a few choices with their cap space. McCollum will develop into a capable backup point guard. The fact that the Blazers have McCollum alone, should deter them from re-signing Williams.
Will Barton and Thomas Robinson are the only two other player that have shown significant improvement, and that may be inserted as permanent role players next season.
This leaves the shooting guard and center positions. The Blazers have no true backup shooting guard, and signing one should be their top priority this offseason. At center, the Blazers have Joel Freeland and Meyers Leonard backing up Robin Lopez. Leonard is not panning out the way that the Blazers originally planned, and it would be beneficial to trade him for cash, or for a shooting guard. Freeland showed improvement in his play last season, before spraining his MCL, which ultimately took him out for the season. Though he can be reliable, the Blazers would be better off trying to sign a center that can anchor the bench on the defensive end.
Summary:
Trade: Meyers Leonard
Dont Re-sign: Mo Williams
Sign: Backup Center and Backup Shooting Guard
Develop: Will Barton, Thomas Robinson, CJ McCollum