The Portland Trail Blazers are appointing Josh Hart at their starting small forward position this upcoming 2022-23 campaign, per Aaron Fentress of Oregon Live.
Though he appears undersized for the job, Hart outlasted competitors to earn the said mantle against the likes of Nassir Little and Justise Winslow. Head coach Chauncey Billups has been consistently praising him for his versatility and defensive approach.
He will form a tandem at front with Jerami Grant, while the duo of Damian Lillard and Anfernee Simons will steer the Blazers backcourt. Meanwhile, big man Jusuf Nurkic will anchor their five.
Hart was acquired by the Blazers last season which saw C.J. McCollum landing in the New Orleans Pelicans via trade. He averaged 19.9 points, 5.4 rebounds. and 4.3 assists, while shooting 50.3% from the field across 13 games repping up Portland.
The swingman is set to enter a potential contract year this campaign, as his 2023-24 contract stands nonguaranteed. His sliding at the small forward may give him a chance to earn a much bigger pay day for his next contract.
