For the better part of the last half-decade, the Portland Trail Blazers have been mired in mediocrity, unable to reclaim the magic that once made them a perennial playoff presence in the Western Conference. Four consecutive seasons without a playoff berth created tension within the fan base and doubt across the league about whether the franchise could ever build a competitive roster again. Yet, after last year’s encouraging step forward — 36 wins, a renewed identity, and a clear commitment to their youth — Portland appears ready to declare itself a team on the rise once more.

General manager Joe Cronin set the tone for the offseason by stating that it’s “winning time” for the Blazers, and the team’s moves reflected that vision. Damian Lillard is back in a Blazers uniform , joined by

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