Sources: Maurice Harkless agrees to $40 million deal with Portland
Restricted free agent Maurice Harkless has agreed to a four-year, $40 million deal to re-sign with the Portland Trail Blazers, league sources told The Vertical.
Harkless’ deal will be fully guaranteed with no options, but it could reach $42 million with incentives, sources said.
In his fourth NBA season, Harkless, 23, emerged as a significant rotation player for the Blazers and continued to illustrate the franchise’s ability to develop and improve young players. He was acquired by Portland in a 2015 trade after three seasons in Orlando, and entered the Blazers’ organization with a fresh chance.
Harkless started all 11 playoff games last season and averaged 11 points and 5.1 rebounds in Portland’s run to the Western Conference semifinals, supplying defensive versatility and an ability to slash to the basket alongside guards Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum. For the season, Harkless averaged 6.4 points and 3.6 rebounds in 78 games.
Harkless was a restricted free agent because of a tendered qualifying offer worth $4.04 million.
Portland has now re-signed key parts of its young core – Harkless, Allen Crabbe and Meyers Leonard – and agreed to a four-year maximum extension with McCollum on Monday.
Harkless was the No. 15 pick in the 2012 NBA draft after a standout season at St. John’s. He had fluctuating performances and minutes with the Magic, but capitalized on Portland’s opportunity and need for a wing. He has career averages of 6.7 points and 3.5 rebounds.
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