LAS VEGAS — The Trail Blazers' 15-man roster was officially settled Thursday morning, when Will Barton's 2014-15 contract became fully guaranteed.

General manager Neil Olshey had the option of waiving the backup shooting guard this summer to create an open roster spot. But by keeping him on the roster until Thursday, Olshey ensured that his burgeoning talent would remain in Portland for at least one more season.

Barton, whom Olshey selected with a second-round pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, will make roughy $915,000 next season.

"Will has improved as much as anyone on our roster as a player and a professional," Olshey told The Oregonian in an email. "Having the third year of his contract guaranteed is a validation of his efforts and his value to our organization."

Thursday's move, which was little more than a formality, was widely expected as Barton has shown marked improvement over the years, progressing from an unheralded 40th overall pick into a contender for a rotation spot. During exit interviews in May, coach Terry Stotts praised his 6-foot-6 guard, saying Barton — who averaged 4.0 points and 1.8 rebounds in 41 games — had improved the most on the team last season in a limited role.

During the final week of his second NBA season, as the San Antonio Spurs were defeating the Blazers in the second round of the Western Conference playoffs, Barton showcased this improvement. In Game 4 — the Blazers' only win in the series — Barton was a sparkplug, finishing with 17 points, six rebounds and two assists. He ended the series with respectable averages of 9.0 points and 2.4 rebounds, while shooting 52 percent from the field.

Barton's showmanship style, which is heavy of alley-oops and exciting plays, and happy-go-lucky personality — he has referred to himself as "The People's Champ" — have endeared him to Blazers fans during his two seasons in Portland. And during this time, his game has matured so much he figures to compete with second-year guard CJ McCollum and veteran Steve Blake for rotation minutes at backup guard next season.

By keeping Barton on the roster, the Blazers maintain the ability to sign him long-term next season. If Olshey extends a $1.1 million qualifying offer by June 30, 2015, Barton will become a restricted free agent, meaning the Blazers can match any offer he receives from another team.

--Joe Freeman | @BlazerFreeman