It was reported this morning that Nassir Little is staying with Portland for the foreseeable future. The 22 year old who played his college ball at UNC signed a 4 year, $28M extension with the Blazers. Little will be making $7 million a year, and the contract seems to be fully guaranteed.
What does this mean for Portland?
Well, they are retaining a player with high upside for only $7 million a year. This is a really affordable price for someone who could have a big impact on the rotation in the future. Even if Little doesn't make a huge leap in the coming years, the contract is still very reasonable for a player who will be at worst a reliable rotation piece. When you look at Portland's salary cap situation, Portland is hampered a bit, so getting Nassir at this price is key. Right now, Lillard is earning $42 million a year (that annual number will keep climbing), Simons is at $22 million a year, and Grant is at just under $21 million a year. Getting Little at $7 million a year instead of $10 million or more allows the Blazers more flexibility now.
What does this mean for Nassir Little?
It means he gets guaranteed money. This was likely important to him since he does have a past that is checkered with injuries. Signing a deal that is guaranteed will give him financial security just in case an injury does occur. In addition to this, Little's career earnings before this was around $6.6 million. This new contract will increase his career earnings immensely. From a basketball standpoint, this contract shows that Portland is investing in Little. The Blazers see him as a part of their future plans because let's face it, it is tought to find reliable 3 and D players for cheap. Little could become that player and taking a chance now could reap incredible benefits down the road. He is coming off of his best season where he scored 9.8 points per game to go along with 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists. Let's hope he continues his ascension this year.
Congratulations to Little for getting his deal. Hopefully, it works out for both sides. Let me know in the comments what your thoughts on the deal are!
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