Blazers' Malcolm Brogdon Says He's 'Happy in Portland' Amid NBA Trade Rumors

Portland Trail Blazers point guard Malcolm Brogdon is one of the top names believed to be available ahead of the Feb. 8 trade deadline, but his preference would be to not go anywhere.

"I'm happy here. I'm valued here. Valued in this leadership/lead-guard role," Brogdon told The Athletic's Jason Quick. "And I can't complain with that. I'm happy in Portland."

The Blazers acquired Brogdon in October as part of the deal that sent point guard Jrue Holiday to the Boston Celtics. Many expected that the reigning NBA Sixth Man of the Year would be flipped to another team, as Portland is in the midst of a rebuild. However, Brogdon said that he has yet to have discussions with the organization about possibly being traded.

"And honestly, that isn't even something I've been focused on,'' he said. "We haven't really talked about that. Of course, I'm sure they are looking at their options, but for me, it's all about using every opportunity to play good basketball and help this team win."

At 14-33, the Blazers are likely to miss the playoffs for the third straight year. In 37 games with 23 starts, Brogdon is averaging 15.9 points, 3.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists. He said he believes his value comes in being a mentor to rookie point guard Scoot Henderson and the rest of Portland's young players.

"When I was first traded, I viewed it as an opportunity. I really did," Brogdon said. "You can ask people around me how my energy was in training camp. I was excited to be here. I was excited to be with a championship coach. And I was excited to go from a place where I wasn't as valued, and go to a place where I am very valued."

Brogdon and the Blazers will be back in action on Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks.

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