The Blazers have been lacking a clear direction for the entirety of Joe Cronin’s tenure. The Blazers have felt largely adrift. But the general manager’s efforts this week have helped illuminate a path forward for Portland by two strong pieces to a growing core. Donovan Clingan and Deni Avdija are in — is Anfernee Simons about to be out?

Bill Oram and Brenna Greene discuss that and more on this episode of The Oregonian sports podcast.

Topics discussed:

• Why the draft felt like such a big break for the Blazers

• What Clingan’s arrival means for incumbent center Deandre Ayton

• Interpreting what Cronin said about Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson — and what he didn’t say about Simons.

Listen the full episode here:

— Bill Oram