Making His Move

Carl Landry intrigued with Blazers; gives overseas deadline.

by Chris Haynes / @chrisbhaynes

The lack of frontcourt help has often been the Portland Trail Blazers‘ Achilles tendon. Look no further as Carl Landry—who happens to be one of the top free agents this offseason—expresses his interest in playing for the Blazers next season.

“I think I can fit in with Portland, “Landry told SLAMonline. “They’re in need of a big post presence down low. I’m not taking anything away from (Greg) Oden and (Marcus) Camby. I just know what I can provide. The Blazers are a good team and I know I can help.”

This free-agent class lacks the big names that last year’s crop produced, but there are a load of serviceable pieces that could turn out to be an X-factor for a title-contending team.

Landry could be that missing piece for the Blazers.

“I really like Portland,” said Landry.” I’m good friends with Greg Oden, and Wes Matthews is from Wisconsin like me. There are a lot of ties there and I have no doubt that I would blend in fine.”

Officially, Landry is still property of the New Orleans Hornets and he’s willing to give them first dibs for his services. New Orleans gave him a great opportunity after they traded for him out of Sacramento, which allowed Landry to play for a contender. He was very appreciative of that move.

“David West and Chris Paul were great to me,” said Landry. “New Orleans brought me to a winning situation. For that, I’m very thankful.”

Talks of late have centered around contraction and New Orleans is a prime candidate to be axed if such a measure is enforced. Landry speaks highly of the city of New Orleans by saying it’s a great city to play in with loyal fans who love their teams.

Landry also said that he’s hearing nothing is going on with the CBA and it’s unlikely both sides will come to terms anytime soon. He also revealed to SLAMonline, his deadline before he takes his talents overseas.

“The first of December is my deadline,” said Landry. “If no agreement is reached by then, I’m looking overseas. To sit out a whole year without basketball is tough. I can’t do that. I would have to play somewhere.”

There’s no doubt that Landry will arguably be the hottest free agent on the market when the NBA season resumes, and he’s eager to start the free agency process.

This second-round pick out of Purdue is used to scratching and clawing his way to the top. Now, he’s going to have teams scratching and clawing for his John Hancock.

His closing argument: “I have an engine that doesn’t come in every car. Its’ a special engine like turbo and that’s something a coach can’t teach.”

Well put, Carl. Well put.