The Portland Trail Blazers have elevated Sidy Cissoko to their full roster while waiving center Rayan Rupert, the team confirmed. This roster change was made to accommodate Cissoko’s transition from a two-way contract after he reached the maximum allowed NBA games on that deal.
Rayan Rupert’s Role and Eligibility Post-Waiver
Selected as the 43rd overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the 21-year-old Rayan Rupert appeared in 139 games for Portland, averaging 3.2 points and 1.8 rebounds in 12 minutes per contest. Following his waiver, Rupert will be available for a two-way contract if he clears waivers by Sunday.
Sidy Cissoko’s Progress and Contract Upgrade
French forward Sidy Cissoko, also 21, has become a significant part of the Blazers’ rotation this season, having started 24 of 50 games. He has averaged 6.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in just over 22 minutes per game, contributing both offensively and defensively. His two-way contract was set to expire after reaching a 50-game threshold, prompting the team to convert his deal to a standard two-year contract, as reported by Shams Charania via his agents at Gersh Sports.
Roster Management and Future Roster Outlook
This transaction created an available roster spot on Portland’s full 15-man lineup, which was necessary for Cissoko’s promotion. Additionally, converting Cissoko’s contract opens up a two-way slot that the Trail Blazers must fill by March 4, maintaining roster flexibility moving forward.
Implications of the Roster Changes for the Trail Blazers
By endorsing Cissoko’s continued presence on the active roster and waiving Rupert, the Trail Blazers have taken a strategic step to optimize their player resources late in the season. This move signals Portland’s confidence in Cissoko’s development while preserving the option to retain Rupert under a two-way agreement, allowing him further opportunities to contribute in the future.
“Portland has officially promoted Sidy Cissoko and waived Rayan Rupert. Story: https://t.co/LDhoRCUOdp”
?Hoops Rumors
Portland has officially promoted Sidy Cissoko and waived Rayan Rupert. Story: https://t.co/LDhoRCUOdp
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 20, 2026
