PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS
Recap Rewind: In contrast to the Timberwolves, with whom they tied in record this season, the Trailblazers’ fortunes are actually looking up. Despite limping through the final weeks of the season with a 1-6 record the Blazers are happy with their 32 wins, 11 better than last season and the third biggest increase in the league this year behind Toronto and Houston. Zach Randolph was the leading stat man for the Blazers amassing 24 points and 10 rebounds per game. But the real buzz surrounded their talented rookie class. Brandon Roy averaged 17 points per game while playing a well-rounded, heady style that coaches raving. Second overall pick Lamarcus Aldridge came on strong at the end of the season on both ends of the court. And Spanish sensation Sergio Rodriguez tantalized fans with his frenetic pace and GPS-quality passing ability. The Blazers feel that they are trending upwards and are one or two pieces away from making some noise…modest noise perhaps, but not heard around Portland for a while.
Playoff Prospects: The team feels that next season will be their year to challenge for a low-level spot but realistically it’s probably two years at least. They have another high pick coming and some veteran moves to make, then they need some time to gel. But if you’re looking for teams with a bullet next to their name most experts would have at least half an eye on Portland.
Questions for Next Season: Part of the problem with the Blazers right now is that their leading scorer is also their biggest question, which is never a good thing. Zach Randolph’s on-court production has flourished and there’s no reason to think that won’t continue. But he’s not a prime example of the Blazers’ new cultural emphasis of unselfish play on the court and unselfish service off it. Many are speculating he’ll be shopped this summer. The question is, for what? The Blazers have a ready-made substitute for Zach in Lamarcus Aldridge. They need center help and athleticism at the smaller positions, notably small forward. Unless they jump in the lottery they’ll need at least one or two willing trade partners to accomplish both of those goals. Are Randolph’s talent and production enough to outweigh his perceived attitude and community issues? The answer to that question may decide whether the Blazers are in the passing lane or the grandma lane on the road to success.
