Portland knows what they would be getting if they bring back Freeland: a team-first, heady big who again made significant strides last season despite another major injury.
Joel Freeland came to the Portland Trail Blazers three seasons ago after scouts had touted him as the best big man in Europe. In the NBA he has established himself as a useful bench player, known for his tough defense, sure rebounding, and heads-up selfless play. Freeland has fit in nicely with his team's needs and style, but he is also coming off his second straight season derailed by injury, which has limited his impact on the team to date.