Even after all the recent events, including his presence at a nightclub shooting, that have made Portland big man Zach Randolph questionable, he wants to remain in Portland and he wants a maximum contract.

"That's what I would like, or something close to it," Randolph said. "I want to be here. If they're going to embrace me as the leader of this team and the franchise player, that's what I want to be. This is where I want to finish my career."

Randolph averaged 20.1 points and 10.5 rebounds last season, leading the Blazers in both categories.  At 23 Randolph is touted my many in the leauge as the real thing and can only improve his game as he gains more experience.

The word from the Blazer camp, "I have no response," general manager John Nash said when asked about the possibility of a maximum contract for Randolph.