In a move that’s turning heads across the NBA community, the Portland Trail Blazers have signed little-known power forward Andrew Carr out of Kentucky to an Exhibit 10 contract — and fans are already fiercely debating the decision.
Carr, a 6’10” senior who transferred to Kentucky for his final collegiate season, wasn’t on many draft boards and went undrafted in June. Despite a modest stat line and limited national exposure, the Blazers saw enough in his size, hustle, and defensive instincts to offer him a chance to prove himself in the NBA Summer League.
“Who?”
That was the reaction from a large chunk of the Blazers fanbase when the signing was announced early Tuesday morning. Twitter and Reddit lit up with questions about who Carr even is — and whether the team is wasting valuable development space on a long shot.
But Blazers front office personnel are standing by the decision.
“Andrew’s got the kind of motor and physical tools we love to develop,” a Portland scout said anonymously. “He might not be flashy, but he brings real toughness and a willingness to work.”
Carr averaged 8.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game last season at Kentucky, and was praised by Wildcats coach Mark Pope for his “grit and leadership in the locker room.”
Still, the signing raises eyebrows for a franchise in transition. After missing the playoffs again and trading away key veterans, Portland is clearly entering a rebuild — but some fans are questioning if this is the right kind of gamble.
“If this is our big offseason move, we’re in trouble,” one fan posted on X.
Others are more optimistic, citing recent NBA success stories like Jose Alvarado and Austin Reaves, both of whom entered the league with zero hype and carved out real roles.
Carr will get his first chance to silence the doubters during Summer League play in Las Vegas next week. Whether he’s the next hidden gem or just a training camp body remains to be seen — but one thing’s certain: the Blazers have everyone’s attention.
