The case of DeJuan Blair continues. Will he be staying San Antonio or will he get his wish and exit gracefully? It appears the Spurs cannot make up their mind of the 2009 draft pick, once considered a steal after being drafted No. 36 overall. Blair contributed early, receiving All-Rookie honors and looking like a young Tim Duncan. However, Blair has fallen out of favor with the team all will likely soon be gone.
Blair saw himself out of the starting rotation and forced to average a career-low of 14 minutes per game. He is an excellent rebounder, making him very compelling for teams, but his limited skill set and poor defensive mind set are holding him back. So what will the Spurs do?
Sources are reporting the Spurs are seeking a trade for Blair, but are denying chances of a sign-and-trade with any team. They are being extremely picky with what they will accept. The Washington Wizards have mutual interest in Blair as he is seeking to have a bigger role with a team, but they can only offer a few un-enticing sign-and-trades and the Spurs are not biting.
Almost a dozen teams are reportedly interested in Blair's services. The Philadelphia 76ers like what they see in Blair and could make a serious offer since they will be forced to wait on first-round draft pick Nerlens Noel to make his debut later in the season. The Los Angeles Clippers and Chicago Bulls are also showing interest. Blair, like every other NBA player, wants to play for a contending team. Both fit that bill. The Bulls seem a bit more likely to look at Blair as the Clippers have made multiple comments about being completely done making moves this offseason.
Blair is only 24 and averages 15 points and 11 rebounds per game. If given the opportunity, he could push his way into a starting rotation. Set to become a free agent next summer, Blair is hoping to sign a nice multi-year deal worth roughly $3 million whether it is with the Spurs or someone else. San Antonio has added Jeff Pendergraph who will likely serve as Blair's replacement. All signs are pointing towards the young forward leaving the Spurs, now he just needs to find a landing spot.
