Jerami Grant is owed $102.6 million over three years. Can Portland actually build around that?

The Portland Trail Blazers are heading into the trade deadline with roster questions centered on Jerami Grant’s contract and whether the current construction can push for the playoffs.

The Jerami Grant contract math

Grant signed a five-year, $160 million deal in 2023. He’s averaging 19.2 points per game with decent shooting splits this season. There’s still $102.6 million owed over the next three years. Under the new CBA rules, that number limits what Portland can do elsewhere on the roster. If the front office decides Grant’s production doesn’t match his cap hit, the trade deadline is the time to explore the market.

Jrue Holiday is back from a two-month absence

Holiday returned recently after missing two months. Even on a minutes restriction, he scored 21 points with seven assists against Toronto. Pairing Holiday’s contract with Grant’s creates a combined salary north of $200 million over the next few years. If Portland has to choose between them, Holiday’s playoff experience and two-way impact make him the more valuable piece to keep.

The front office is positioning to buy

Portland has spent recent seasons in the lottery. The deadline approach this year appears different — the Blazers are looking to add rather than sell. GM Joe Cronin has the opportunity to make a move that shifts the roster from rebuilding to competing. The core pieces exist. The question is what’s available and what Portland is willing to give up.

Deni Avdija’s back issues are a problem

Avdija is listed as questionable for the Celtics game with recurring back problems. If he’s out, Sidy Cissoko and Caleb Love could see more minutes, but relying on unproven players during a playoff push isn’t ideal. Portland needs Avdija healthy or needs to find depth at the deadline.