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The Portland Trail Blazers reminded the league of just how good they were in the NBA bubble, after a rough start last season. After struggling to find rhythm all season, Damian Lillard insipired a magical run for 2018-19 Western Conference Finalists, which eventually saw them get to the post-season through the play-in tournament.
However, before the start of the 2020-21 campaign, the front office's priorities were clear as they did a great job getting the right pieces, adding to the star firepower the team already possesses. Till now the Portland Trail Blazers have had a mixed start to the season, currently they sit 8th in the Western Conference with a 9-8 record.
Portland Trail Blazers road to the NBA Finals
In this article, we take a look at 5 reasons why the Portland Trail Blazers have a chance of through to the NBA Finals by winning the Western Conference.
Damian Lillard’s consistent clutch performance
The presence of Dame Dolla has helped Portland Trail Blazers overcome the most challenging situations, earmarking him as a bonafide leader in the NBA. His athletic prowess coupled with his ability to make deep range threes, that too in the clutch moments makes him the most lethal weapon in the teams arsenal.
Lillard's consistent production over the last 2 seasons has already invoked a narrative in the league. With the start of 2020-2021 season, Lillard is averaging 27 PPG, shooting 37.7% from the 3 point line and making 42% of FG, picking up right where he left off last season.
Undoubtedly the unanimous MVP of the bubble, Damian Lillard's performance drove Portland Trail Blazers to the post-season as the 8th seed after beating Memphis Grizzlies-led by Rookie of the Year-Ja Morant.
CJ McCollum poised to reach his prime
Portland Trail Blazers has the best backcourt in the NBA, second only to the splash brothers from the Golden State Warriors. Acting as a crucial pillar for the team, Cj McCollum has proved reliable even when it's not Lillard’s day. His ability to build chemistry with teammates and elevate their game makes him one of the best team players in the entire league.
He is off to a great start this season, posting even better stats than Damian Lillard. Currently averaging 28 PPG, Shooting 43.7% from the three point line and making 47% of FG. CJ is poised to hit his prime, rendering Portland Trail Blazers a great spot in the league.
Portland Trail Blazers acquisition of Robert Covington and Derrick Jones Jr.
The biggest contribution by the front office was getting Robert Covington and Derrick Jones Jr. With their defensive tenacity they take the team’s game to the next notch in presence of Rodney Hood.
Covington, who played only 22 games for the Houston Rockets last season, arrived in Portland well rested and healthy. Also, his stats so far have been promising as he sets the tone as a starter for the team.
Derrick Jones Jr. on the other hand, with his freaky athletic talent brings a whole lot of energy to the game. His stint with the Heat last season has acquainted him with the right attitude and experience, making him a great piece in the puzzle. His recent performances prove how well he is gelling with the team and actively involved in playmaking with the back court.
Arrival of Enes Kanter and healthy Jusuf Nurkic
With the arrival of Kanter and Nurkic perfectly healthy after recovering from a gruesome injury, the center court inevitably appears more stable.
Last season Hassan Whiteside managed to protect the rim but lacked offensive production to lift the Portland Trail Blazers. But now with Kanter serving as the perfect alternative on both ends of the floor , the team has managed to fill a critical gap in order on the roster.
Rising Gary Trent Jr. with Anfernee Simons & Vintage Melo
Rising star for the Portland Trail Blazers- Gary Trent Jr. drew a lot of attention with his performance in the Orlando bubble. Along with Anfernee Simons , he makes a decent alternate back court pairing, capable of opening up the floor when CJ and Dame are catching a breath.
Also, after Carmelo Anthony got his shot with the Portland Trail Blazers, it's safe to say that he has redeemed himself with some brilliant performances, match winning in some cases. Along with his valubale experience, Melo has also brought a ton of energy to the court, with his brilliant mid-range jumpers and 3 point shooting.
Guess the Lakers players!
