Donovan

Clingan

Ayton has missed the last two games with the same injury. Donovan Clinghan figures to step up in Ayton’s absence. He had 17 points, 12 rebounds and eight blocks while filling in for Ayton on Wednesday.

Not needing to attempt many perimeter shots during his two seasons at UConn, Clingan has been given the leeway to take those shots in summer league. On Friday, seven of his 13 field goal attempts came from beyond the arc, and the 7-foot-2 center was one of two Blazers (Olivier Nkamhoua) to hit multiple 3-pointers. Spending more time on the perimeter did not detract from Clingan’s production in other areas, as he was dominant on the boards while recording six “stocks.” He should be one of the first rookies off of boards in drafts, and Portland moving Robert Williams III (or Deandre Ayton) would raise Clingan’s fantasy ceiling even higher.

While the scoring remains a work in progress, Clingan was again impactful as a rebounder and shot-blocker. He hit double digits in rebounds for the second consecutive summer league game, and he’s up to eight blocked shots in Las Vegas. A welcome bonus on Monday was Clingan’s work as a facilitator, dishing out five assists on the night. Clingan’s fantasy value as a rookie would increase if he could occasionally serve as a playmaker within Portland’s offense.

Making his summer debut, Clingan struggled with his shot on Saturday. However, Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and team decision-makers had to be pleased with the rookie’s performance as a rebounder and shot-blocker. Clingan led all players in rebounds, blocked shots, and threw in a steal for good measure. Five of his eight field goal attempts came from beyond the arc, a departure from what Clingan did offensive during his time at UConn. Clingan’s fantasy value would be significantly boosted if he could become a credible pick-and-pop option while continuing to produce as a rebounder and defender.

After winning a national championship with UConn as a freshman, Clingan decided to run things back before entering the NBA draft. That resulted in another ring for him, and he became one of the top prospects for many teams. He averaged 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.5 blocks in just 22.5 minutes per game this past season, which were significant improvements after he played just 13.1 minutes per game as a freshman. Clingan measured in at nearly 7’2” at the combine, and he should be able to contribute on the defensive end immediately as a bigger body that can provide a different look to slow down some of the league’s elite centers. Portland has two centers under contract, Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams, so the Clingan selection may mean one (or both) of those veterans is on the way out. If that happens, the former UConn standout will have value in redraft leagues; both staying would make Clingan more of an option in dynasty leagues.