Do the Golden State Warriors Have the Brightest Future Of Any NBA Team?

Portland Trail Blazers

Nov 30, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts (center) speaks with Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard (left) and power forward LaMarcus Aldridge (right) during the first half of a game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

The Portland Trail Blazers seemed to have it all a few years ago–an elite small forward in Brandon Roy, a budding star power forward in LaMarcus Aldridge and a bright future ahead of them. After Roy had to retire due to the instability of his knees, the team had to convince Aldridge to stay and rebuild, which he was more than willing to do. He was repaid handsomely.

After the coup that was the Gerald Wallace trade (an expiring contract for an top three protected pick), the Blazers ended up getting the 2013 Rookie of the Year, Damian Lillard. He has single-handedly changed the culture in Portland in a single season. Although an old(er) rookie at 22, he proved that he absolutely belonged and that he can bring the Blazers back into the playoffs. They also drafted huge center Meyers Leonard who could prove to be a great front-court mate with Aldridge.