Trail Blazers pick up options on Donovan Clingan, Yang Hansen

October 29, 2026

The Trail Blazers’ new backcourt is getting plenty of attention. They’re also keeping a couple of investments in the middle.

Portland exercised its 2027-28 team options on centers Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen, the team announced Thursday.

For Clingan, the decision guarantees a $9.55 million salary in his fourth season. Yang’s third-year option is worth approximately $4.86 million. Same transaction, different stages of development.

Clingan has been Portland’s starting center since February 2025 and averaged 12.1 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.7 blocks in 77 games last season. Through the Blazers’ 3-0 start, he has contributed 9.3 points and 9.0 rebounds in 22.3 minutes per game.

With Damian Lillard and Ja Morant creating offense, having somebody who can finish possessions on the glass and protect the basket is a useful arrangement.

Clingan becomes eligible for a rookie scale extension next summer. That will be a bigger conversation, but Portland has secured another season while his role continues to develop.

Yang, meanwhile, remains more of a long-term project. The No. 16 pick in 2025 averaged 2.2 points and 1.5 rebounds in 43 appearances as a rookie, playing seven minutes per game.

The 21-year-old has appeared in only one game this season. Picking up his option gives him more time to work toward a larger opportunity.

Portland will have another decision next fall on Yang’s $7.46 million option for 2028-29. For this round, both big men are staying in the plans.