No one saw the Yang Hansen pick coming. Photo: Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images
The Blazers selected Yang Hansen, a 7-foot-1 center from China in last night's NBA draft.
Why it matters: The pick comes as the team seeks to build on an exciting end to last season, where the Blazers showed signs of growth after years of mediocrity.
Zoom in: The selection came as a big surprise after the Blazers traded their No. 11 pick to the Memphis Grizzlies for the rights to pick Hansen, who wasn't expected to go until the second round of the draft, at No. 16.
It was either a savvy play or a wasted pick, depending on who you ask, but Hansen, nicknamed the "Chinese Jokic," is a skilled passer with the ability to score around the rim.
Zoom out: The Blazers have already been active this offseason, trading guard Anfernee Simons to the Boston Celtics for veteran defensive stalwart Jrue Holiday.
What's next: Several other players on the roster — Jerami Grant, Deandre Ayton, and Robert Williams III, chief among them — could be on the move before next season.
