Expectations for the 2024-25 Portland Trail Blazers season are not high. After finishing last season with just 21 wins, Portland secured first-round draft pick Donovan Clingan during the summer. Additionally, they completed a somewhat intriguing trade for Washington Wizards forward Deni Avdija, which involved parting ways with veteran point guard Malcolm Brogdon. While these moves will alter their 10-man rotation, they’re unlikely to forecast a successful season in the competitive NBA Western Conference.
With that context established, several interesting subtexts emerge. The Blazers are considered to be in Year 2 of a rebuilding phase following the trade of franchise superstar Damian Lillard. But has the true process of rebuilding even commenced? This is one of the intriguing topics to be explored in today’s Blazer’s Edge Mailbag.
Dear Dave,
The season kicks off next month, and it seems this is the team we will have, for better or for worse. It’s probably for the worse, so if they’re not good, what will you be looking for this year? What do you want to see personally?
Iggy
Earlier this summer, I addressed the questions facing the Blazers from a team perspective as they approach the season. I discussed the critical factors for their on-court and institutional development. This question is aligned with that discussion, albeit with a slightly different angle, so I’m happy to tackle it.
What am I personally looking for? Here’s my take.
Can Scoot Henderson Play?
This one issue significantly influences Portland’s rebuilding efforts more than any other. Henderson represents the most prominent, high-expectation asset among the new Blazers, with a significant disparity between those expectations and his actual performance. Thus, he is a pivotal figure this season.
It’s intentional that I’m framing the question as, “Can he play?” Typically, our conversation would center around specific elements of his game to monitor in his second season, like court vision, shooting, using the pick and roll, or defense. However, all these details are secondary to the larger concern: Can he remain on the floor while the team maintains credibility?
If Henderson’s development suggests he’s on track to become a starting point guard, that’s acceptable for the Blazers. They’re still a couple drafts away from significant progress anyway, and he has time to develop.
If Henderson struggles, Portland’s rebuild essentially starts with the 2025 NBA Draft. Surprise! They believed it commenced in 2023. This shift marks a substantial difference, not only in timeline but also in outlook.
Can Shaedon Sharpe Stay Healthy?
Shaedon Sharpe had an electrifying rookie season and appeared to be developing defensively in his sophomore year. While his overall efficiency took a dip, his scoring, rebounding, and assist stats improved on a per-minute basis.
The catch? He played only 32 games due to injuries.
There’s no indication that Sharpe’s injuries are chronic, but if he suffers further setbacks this year, it would mean two out of his first three seasons have been marred by injury, especially given the style of play that demands agility and quick reactions.
If Sharpe can manage to participate in 75 games this season, it will be a sigh of relief, indicating everything is on track. However, if he trends toward 60 games or fewer, that would be concerning.
Additionally, there’s the question of his three-point shooting percentage. If Shaedon can successfully stretch the floor, he can play either wing position alongside various frontcourt teammates. Conversely, if he needs to operate close to the basket to be effective, he would be restricted to the shooting guard role, limiting his compatibility with a lane-clogging center or power forward. This distinction could have significant implications moving forward.
Can the Blazers Play Defense?
Last season, the Blazers ranked slightly below average in total points allowed and found themselves in the bottom third for defensive efficiency and field goal percentage against. The only aspect they excelled in was defending the three-point line, which clearly wasn’t sufficient.
Toumani Camara emerged as an enthusiastic young defender, while Jerami Grant is capable on that end. Portland possesses hardworking forwards in the mid-to-late rotation. Henderson boasts impressive athleticism among point guards, and Sharpe is making progress. Defending is also a hallmark of Clingan’s game. So, where is the actual defensive prowess?
If Portland fails to improve defensively this season, several questions arise: Is the issue coaching? Are the players overvalued? Are there too many deficiencies among the key rotation players for anyone to compensate? Is it a combination of these factors? Whatever the cause, significant improvement is essential for success.
Will Any Veterans Be Traded?
The decision to trade will depend on future cap strategies as much as present value, but it will be intriguing to see if the Blazers engage in the trade market this year or choose to wait until next summer. If they move Grant or Anfernee Simons, it would likely signal a lack of long-term plans for them in Portland. Alternatively, it may suggest that they received an offer they felt was irresistible. Regardless, an early trading decision could bring excitement to an otherwise ordinary season.
That’s enough from me. What specific elements are you looking for this year? Feel free to share in the comments section below!
Thanks for your question! You can always send yours to blazersub@gmail.com, and we will strive to answer as many as we can.
Navigating the Unknown: What to Watch for in the 2024-25 Portland Trail Blazers Season
Overview of the 2024-25 Season
The 2024-25 season for the Portland Trail Blazers is poised to be a compelling journey filled with uncertainty and potential. With new faces, evolving strategies, and an ever-changing league landscape, fans are eager to see how the Blazers will navigate the challenges ahead.
Key Players to Watch
As the season approaches, certain players are expected to emerge as pivotal figures for the Trail Blazers.
- Damian Lillard: An undisputed leader, Lillard’s performance will be crucial. His ability to score and facilitate will define the team’s offensive efficiency.
- Jerami Grant: After a strong previous season, Grant’s role as a versatile forward who can defend multiple positions will be essential for the Blazers’ defensive schemes.
- Rookie Contributions: The integration of new talent from the draft will be critical. Keep an eye on how the rookies adapt to the NBA level.
Coaching Strategies and Philosophy
Head Coach Chauncey Billups will aim to implement strategies tailored to the current roster. Expect a few key focus areas:
- Defensive Adjustments: With a focus on improving their defensive metrics, look for Billups to emphasize pressure and versatility.
- Offensive Innovation: Expect creative plays that maximize the strengths of Lillard and Grant while involving younger players to foster development.
Rivalries and Key Matchups
The NBA is known for its intense rivalries, and the 2024-25 season will be no different. Key matchups to watch include:
| Opponent | Date | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers | November 15, 2024 | Home | Rivalry renewal and playoff implications |
| Golden State Warriors | December 28, 2024 | Away | Test against a championship-caliber team |
| Denver Nuggets | February 10, 2025 | Home | Key Western Conference matchup |
Potential Breakout Stars
Every season brings the opportunity for players to step into the spotlight. Some potential breakout stars for the Blazers include:
- Shaedon Sharpe: As a young talent, Sharpe’s development could be a game-changer for the Blazers, particularly if he can elevate his scoring.
- Keon Johnson: Look for Johnson to take on a larger role, leveraging his speed and defensive skills to impact games significantly.
Injury Management and Player Health
Injuries can derail a season, making how the Blazers manage player health crucial. Strategies may include:
- Load Management: Employing load management for key players, particularly Lillard, to ensure they are fresh for crucial games.
- Training and Recovery: Investing in advanced training and recovery techniques to minimize injury risks.
Fan Engagement and Community Involvement
The Trail Blazers have a passionate fan base, and engaging with them is vital. The team will likely focus on:
- Community Programs: Continuing to build strong ties with the Portland community through outreach initiatives.
- Interactive Events: Hosting fan events that allow for direct interaction with players and coaches, enhancing the fan experience.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Aspirations
Despite uncertainties, the Blazers have their sights set on the playoffs. Factors contributing to their success include:
- Consistency: Maintaining a consistent level of play throughout the season will be key to securing a playoff spot.
- Team Chemistry: Building chemistry on and off the court to foster trust and collaboration among players.
Conclusion: The Journey Ahead
As the 2024-25 Portland Trail Blazers season unfolds, anticipation and excitement will characterize the journey. From key player performances to strategic coaching decisions, every aspect will play a role in how the team navigates the challenges ahead.
