Al-Farouq Aminu Signs with Portland

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Former Dallas Maverick Al-Farouq Aminu has just agreed to a four year $30 million deal with the Portland Trail Blazers. After dealing Nicolas Batum, the Blazers seem to be searching for their next starting small forward. Aminu is still only 24 and has room to grow, which is perhaps why the Blazers paid him so much money.

Last season, Aminu made just over one million dollars with the Mavericks. Previous to his one year stint in Dallas, Aminu played three seasons in New Orleans. During this time he never averaged less than six points per game and showed a raw skill set that could potentially be developed. This potential got him a one million dollar deal as a I previously stated. He then played less minutes than he did in his three seasons with the Pelicans and averaged less points per game than he ever did with the Pelicans, all while shooting only 41 percent. He was rewarded by receiving six million more dollars per year on a long term basis. If you have a hard time following the logic here, you’re not alone.

Regardless of how silly this contract may seem, there is something to be said for untapped potential. This move makes it look more likely that Wesley Matthews and LaMarcus Aldridge will be leaving Rip City. This could mean the start of a potential mini-rebuild in which the Blazers will try to put new talent around Damian Lillard. Considering Aminu is still young, perhaps Portland will be able to tap into his potential and mold him into a respectable starting small forward.

Next season will most likely be a down year for Portland as they look to continue rebuilding. Lillard will not be enough to get the Blazers through a tough Western Conference and honestly, I don’t see Aminu making a difference in the end.