Donovan Clingan considered off limits by Trail Blazers after Ja Morant trade

Donovan Clingan has become a crucial part of the Portland Trail Blazers’ new direction. After the trade for Ja Morant, the team now considers the young center essentially off limits in trade talks.

Portland values Clingan’s elite rim protection as a necessary piece behind a backcourt featuring Morant and Damian Lillard, two undersized guards who have not consistently excelled defensively.

The Blazers are still expected to remain active on the market. They want more frontcourt depth and also have a crowded guard rotation with Morant, Lillard, Jrue Holiday and Scoot Henderson.

Inside the organization, the decision to acquire Morant in exchange for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray was viewed as a no-brainer. Clingan’s presence, however, is now seen as vital to Portland’s long-term identity.