The Portland Trail Blazers made a major roster overhaul this offseason. They released one-club man Damian Lillard, who requested a trade. In the process, they brought in big man DeAndre Ayton and veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon, as well as Robert Williams III.
The potential of Scott Henderson was another weapon in Portland’s arsenal.
He was selected by Portland with the third overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Henderson, who played for the G-League’s Ignite, is an excellent offensive prospect with overwhelming athleticism, and he was a natural fit to fill Lillard’s shoes.
However, Portland’s early season form has been dismal. As of Dec. 17, Portland sits at the bottom of the Western Conference with a 3-8 record.
They also lost a 14-point game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Dec. 16, snapping a five-game losing streak.
Injuries are holding Portland back. Henderson is out with an ankle injury. Brogdon is also dealing with a hamstring injury. No. 1 option Anfernee Simmons also has a finger injury. Williams is out for the season after knee surgery.
But Portland head coach Billups hasn’t given up.
In an interview after the game against Cleveland, Billups said, “Every halftime, the guys are energized. We didn’t play well, we gave them the lead, we let it slip away, but they stayed focused. They were fighting on the court to turn the game around.”토토사이트
Portland’s fall was somewhat expected. But that doesn’t mean the players aren’t giving it their all. Billups is empowering the younger players to build a culture that is unique to Portland.
“When they got ahead, we found a way to minimize the damage, and I like the way we played,” Billups said.
It’s certainly a trying time. Even with the return of injured players, it’s unlikely we’ll see any noticeable changes. But Portland’s Young Guns and Billups will continue to work toward a better future.