Giorgos

Printezis

Printezis, who was originally the No. 58 overall pick in the 2008 draft, is not expected to put on a Blazers uniform in the foreseeable future. He’ll likely continue his career overseas and it’s possible he may never come to Portland.

Printezis was acquired by the Blazers in a sign-and-trade deal involving Raymond Felton back in July and he gets to be a small forward with Oklahoma City. The 6'9", 27-year-old forward averaged 14.3 points with 1.1 triples with Greek Olympiakos this season. He won’t have fantasy value for a while at best.

“I have told my manager that no matter what offer arrives, Olympiacos has the first hand.” said Printezis. “There might be an interest from other teams, but I feel very good in Olympiacos. I wish to close my career in Olympiacos.” The Spurs own Printezis draft rights, but with comments like this coming from a 31-year-old, it seems unlikely the 2007 draft pick will ever make the jump to the NBA.

So the 6'9" Greek small forward will be staying in Europe for at least another season. The Raptors are excited by the progress he’s made over the past couple of years, especailly his athleticism and aggressive rebounding. Small forward remains an issue for Toronto and the Raptors will look at Grant Hill, Mickael Pietrus and Luke Walton this summer, with Pietrus probably the primary target.

Don’t plan on seeing him in the NBA anytime soon, as he’ll stay in Greece to develop.

The Raptors were without a pick in the draft this season, but managed to add to their growing collection of international talent. The 6'9" small forward averaged 11.5 points and 3.9 rebounds last season with Olympia Larissa. The Raptors are seeking help at the three spot, but don’t look for Printezis to be of immediate use -- he’s a project at this point.