Blazers more likely to trade Malcolm Brogdon than Jerami Grant, insider says

The Portland Trail Blazers could undergo another roster shakeup, though perhaps not as severe as some might expect.

Per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Blazers are “more likely” to trade veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon than forward Jerami Grant. Brogdon was acquired before the season in a deal that sent guard Jrue Holiday to the Boston Celtics.

Grant has expressed a desire to remain in Portland. And both Grant and Brogdon indeed could still be on the team beyond the Feb. 8 trade deadline.

“As a result, rival executives say Portland is viewing Grant as a positive trade asset, whereas some were hoping the Blazers would sell high on Grant early in his five-year contract as more of a neutral asset,” Scotto wrote. “Thus, executives believe Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon is more likely to be dealt than Grant if Portland makes a trade at the deadline since he’s considered less expensive to acquire. Rival executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe a fair asking price for Brogdon is a first-round pick and salary filler.”

Meanwhile, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that the Blazers aren’t expected to entertain trade offers for Grant despite their struggles.

Grant, 29, is averaging 21.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists, shooting 46 percent from the field and 41 percent on 3-pointers. He signed a five-year, $160 million contract with the Blazers during the offseason.

Brogdon, 31, is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year and is averaging 14.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 5.1 assists with Portland, shooting 43 from the floor and 41 percent on threes. He’s making $22.5 million this season.