The Wild, Wild West: A Team-By-Team Preview Of The NBA Western Conference
By Matt Packer
Portland Trail Blazers (Northwest Division)
Last year’s result: Regular Season (54-28). Lost in Western Conference Semifinals to San Antonio Spurs in 5 games.
Significant players added: Steve Blake, Chris Kaman
Significant players lost: None
Projected starting lineup: Damian Lillard, Wesley Matthews, Nicolas Batum, LaMarcus Aldridge, Robin Lopez
Analysis: The Blazers surprised some people last year, knocking out the Rockets in the first round of the playoffs with Damian Lillard’s unforgettable game-winning shot. Portland did a lot of things well last year, ranking fourth the league in scoring with 106.7 PPG and first in rebounding with 46.4 RPG. Lillard is a bona fide star, possessing a rare combination of poise, skill, and explosiveness. Even better, he’s a humble leader and tireless worker, meaning he’ll be better than ever in next year’s campaign.
LaMarcus Aldridge, an All-NBA 3rd Team selection, is one the most consistent players around, regardless of position. The Blazers had two Achilles heels: depth and poor defense. Signing Chris Kaman and Steve Blake will help alleviate the first issue of depth. Outside of Thomas Robinson, Aldridge and Lopez have not had any big men able to competently fill in for them. Blake will also provide some veteran leadership and will be able to take Lillard under his wing. The Blazers quietly improved this off-season, albeit not leaps and bounds.
Grade: B-