What happened: Batum retires as a former first-round pick who played for four teams. Portland was his opening stop, where he spent seven seasons.
Why it matters: Portland accounts for the longest single chapter of his 18-season tenure. The departure lands as the Trail Blazers prepare for the Oct. 21 opener to the 2026-27 season.
By the numbers: 7 seasons in Portland; 18 NBA seasons; 4 teams
What to watch: Portland opens the 2026-27 season Oct. 21.