I've been fairly impressed with Petteri Koponen so far in Vegas. It's hardly real NBA ball, but he seems under control, effective, and has a good shot. Should Portland keep him for this year? I'm inclined to say yes, season Batum, and think about finding a new home for Sergio.

 Batum is not ready for the NBA.  Probably not for 2 years....shelve Nicholas.....Bring Petteri over and Sergio has to fight...i don't want to firesale him right now.

I agree as well. Koponen is our next Steve Blake. And still only 19. He will be happy in the D league this year. Keep him!

Koponen has a different mindset than some other European players in the sense that he would rather play in the NBA than take a huge contract in Europe. Choosing the game over money is so rare these days that he would be a great addition on any bench. He just turned 20 in April and could have a long career in the NBA if given the shot.  

Check out this story and video of Koponen talking about his NBA dreams ...

In Vegas: Koponen Decision Looming

Koponen Video Interview

 

I hope Koponen does a great job in Europe and ends up making the Blazer roster next year.