May 16, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Shabazz Muhammad is interviewed during the NBA Draft combine at Harrison Street Athletics Facility. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Muhammad was considered to be the number 1 high school player of 2012 and has spent his time since with UCLA. Now he is ready to join the professional ranks. The NBA draft combine began today, in Chicago, and the Blazers wasted no time getting acquainted with the star shooting guard to-be.

Not only was Muhammad receptive to the notion of joining the Blazers, he seemed legitimately excited at the possibility, citing the ways in which he could complement Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge. He even had the team-first, learning mentality I like to see in a young player:

“I really want to help them in that position, and not even come in and try to score a lot; I want to come in and learn, and if it comes in a slow start pace at first, I mean, it’s a great situation for me and I think I can do a really good job there.”

(Video) – CSNNW

It is not even unrealistic for Portland to scoop him up with the 10th pick. Sure, it’s still a stretch, but teams have voiced their concerns regarding his fundamental mechanics. While this will negatively impact his draft position, it is not the worst thing in the world. Consider that the Blazers just hired Assistant Coach, Nate Tibbetts, who specializes in player development, to work with any incoming rookies. So if Muhammad were to slip to 10 (a distinct possibility at this point) Portland has the resources to restructure his weak spots.

Suddenly, the draft has become very interesting for the Blazers. General Manager, Neil Olshey, has made it known that Portland’s picks are up for grabs if the right deal comes along, but the #10 selection just got more attractive. If they can snag Muhammad that late in a weak draft, I doubt they would hesitate to do so.

Muhammad averaged 17.9 points and 5.2 rebounds per game this year.

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