Portland Trail Blazers interim general manager Joe Cronin has been given full approval to make changes to the roster, as if he has the job permanently. Cronin's first big trade accomplished a couple of different goals for the Blazers.

Cronin said the Portland made their five-player deal with the LA Clippers in part to create some roster options for the future.

"Cap flexibility," said Cronin. "The opportunity to clean our books up a little and just create more opportunities for this coming week and beyond, through the draft and free agency."

Cronin also wanted create more opportunities for breakout player Anfernee Simons. When asked about how the team views Simons, Cronin has high praise for his young guard.

"A core piece, definitely. We wanted to create a runway here for him."

Simons has averaged 15.7 points and 3.7 assists per game in his best season. The fourth-year player will be a restricted free agent this summer.