Coach Terry Stotts said Tuesday that he expects Ariza to serve as the Trail Blazers' regular starting small forward, Dan Sheldon of NBC Sports Northwest Rip City Radio 620 reports.

EDGE Analysis

The trade between the Blazers and Kings became official Tuesday, so unless he's dealing with an unreported injury, Ariza should be available to make his debut Thursday against Dallas. The veteran will likely step right into a major role, essentially filling the shoes of Kent Bazemore, who was sent to Sacramento in the deal. Ariza's numbers are down significantly across the board this season, but he never quite fit in with the Kings, so there's hope that a better situation will help rejuvenate the 34-year-old.