The Portland Trail Blazers kick off the 2024-25 NBA season tonight at 7:00 PM Pacific, taking on the Golden State Warriors. In preparation for the new season, we published a detailed season preview yesterday. Today, we will address seven crucial questions the Blazers will face in the upcoming campaign. With Jerami Grant, Anfernee Simons, and Deandre Ayton forming the core of the rotation, which other elements will determine their chances for improvement or, alternatively, lead to their downfall? These themes are likely to feature prominently on that list.
Can Scoot Henderson Play?
Portland point guard Scoot Henderson did not have an easy time during his rookie season in 2023-24. As the third overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and the expected successor to former franchise superstar Damian Lillard, expectations for the G League Ignite talent were sky-high. However, with a shooting percentage of 38.5% and averaging 3.4 turnovers per game, Henderson became a sidelined figure in the team’s season narrative rather than a driving force.
While few expect Henderson to make a complete turnaround in his second year, the Blazers remain committed to him, largely due to a lack of viable alternatives. He will again be given the opportunity to demonstrate what he can achieve.
His primary challenge will be to prove he can lead the team from the point guard position. This will require him to reduce turnovers and enhance his 32.5% accuracy from beyond the arc. Additionally, translating his athletic ability into strong defensive plays would be valuable.
Throughout the summer, there has been a noticeable lack of information about Henderson. He did not participate in Portland’s Summer League games, and updates from his workouts and practices have been limited. His preseason performances have shown some promise, with reduced turnovers and consistent scoring. However, real competition in the NBA begins in just a few hours, presenting a significant test for him. It remains to be seen whether he will emerge stronger or falter under pressure.
The outcome of this situation could very well be the most significant question for the Blazers this season. Their intention to embark on a post-Lillard rebuilding phase began with the acquisition of Scoot, but if he fails to become a capable point guard or a future star, the team may have to push their revival efforts to the 2025 NBA Draft at the earliest. In this league, two years of limited or no progress can feel like an eternity. Much rests on Henderson’s performance this season.
Is This Shaedon Sharpe’s Year?
The Blazers are actively searching for their next franchise superstar. Many speculate that Duke forward Cooper Flagg represents their best chance for reinstating relevance. While they would gladly welcome the opportunity to select him, third-year shooting guard Shaedon Sharpe could also make his case for the role if he has a breakout season.
Since the moment Portland drafted him in 2022 as a largely unknown high-school prospect, Sharpe has exhibited remarkable athleticism and a knack for scoring. His dunks are unforgettable, and he possesses an extraordinary ability to create space for jump shots. Unfortunately, injuries and a lack of experience have hindered the rising star’s potential. The Blazers are hoping he can overcome these obstacles this season and step into the spotlight.
Last season, Sharpe averaged 15.9 points on 40.6% shooting over 32 games—numbers that are relatively low, especially concerning the limited games played. He is starting this season with a shoulder injury, which is not encouraging news. If he can return to his rookie form and shoot around 47%, he could easily elevate his scoring average to 20 points. However, it is important to note that this high shooting percentage was achieved through numerous easier, off-ball opportunities. As he learned last season, scoring while handling the ball presents greater challenges. Nevertheless, Sharpe has a unique ability to create separation just by being on the court. His potential appears limitless, and if he can prove himself, the Blazers are likely to invest significantly in him.
While Scoot Henderson may serve as the most fundamental element on the team, it is Sharpe who holds the potential to elevate Portland’s prospects significantly. A standout season from him could reshape the outlook for Portland’s future, firmly establishing the shooting guard position for years ahead and potentially making fellow guard Anfernee Simons somewhat more dispensable.
Injuries
Last season, no significant rotational player for the Blazers competed in more than 62 games. Jerami Grant and Deandre Ayton were the most durable, playing 54 and 55 games, respectively. Anfernee Simons participated in 36 games, Sharpe in 32, and center Robert Williams III appeared in just 6.
Most NBA players aspire to secure endorsement deals with brands like Nike or Under Armour. The Trail Blazers could have signed contracts with numerous high-end designers, showcasing their streetwear.
It is plausible that Portland’s “games missed” statistics were somewhat inflated as the team dove headfirst into the Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes. After a certain point in the season, they lacked significant motivation to utilize their ideal lineups. There is also the possibility that the team is fragile, experiencing bad luck, or simply cursed.
Regardless, maintaining health will be critical for success this year. Portland possesses a competent roster if they can keep everyone in their respective roles. However, if a key rotational star is sidelined, the Blazers would be forced to substitute quality for lesser options, akin to swapping Scooby Doo for Scrappy Doo, or Peter Brady for Cousin Oliver. This scenario could lead to a challenging season.
Trades
Injuries are not the sole factor that could restrict Portland’s lineup. All three of their primary stars—Grant, Ayton, and Simons—along with center Robert Williams have been included in trade discussions over the summer. The reasoning varies for each player. Grant, at age 30, stands out on a predominantly young roster and should attract considerable market interest from contending teams. Simons, with only a few years left on his contract, may find himself replaced by Henderson and Sharpe. Ayton remains an enigmatic figure who might not contribute significantly to the Blazers before his contract expires in two years. Meanwhile, Williams may become redundant with Ayton and new draft pick Donovan Clingan joining the team.
The Blazers face no immediate pressure to execute a trade. Any of these players could be dealt in exchange for younger talent and prospective assets. Consequently, the future will remain a long-term vision, with no haste required to reach it. Nevertheless, Portland is likely to seize opportunities for enticing trades should they arise. Losing even one of these cornerstone players (excluding possibly Williams) would profoundly change the team’s composition, making the 2025 NBA Trade Deadline notably intriguing for Rip City fans.
Deandre Ayton
As previously noted, Deandre Ayton embodies a complex puzzle—sometimes showcasing star-level prowess while appearing rather ordinary on other nights. Standing at 7 feet, he is approaching the possibility of a new contract in the summer of 2026, which could motivate him to elevate his performance and increase his responsibilities. The key question remains: can he rise to the occasion?
Part of the answer hinges on Ayton’s own capabilities. His offensive skills are more than sufficient, and he currently stands as the team’s leading rebounder. However, his defensive performance fluctuates. This inconsistency in defense is what separates his standing between being “Good enough for the Blazers” and “Just Plain Good.” Transforming into a more well-rounded player with consistent energy would bolster both his appeal and the team’s success. With both Williams and rookie Donovan Clingan providing backup, Ayton now has the support to exert maximum effort while on the court. Will he finally deliver the performance fans have been pleading for since he was drafted first overall in 2018 by the Phoenix Suns?
Ayton’s context similarly affects his performance.
However, Ayton plays a crucial role. While he is the fastest center on the Blazers, his overall speed isn’t particularly noteworthy. For him to be effective, the offense will need to slow down and focus on centering the ball. This approach may conflict with Portland’s strategy. If the Blazers shift to a faster pace, Ayton might see a reduction in his opportunities. It will be intriguing to observe his response if this scenario unfolds.
If the preseason is any indication, Ayton appears to be working on extending his offensive range to the three-point line. Watch this development closely as the season advances. If Ayton successfully adds this element to his game, it could create alternative lineup options alongside Portland’s other big men.
Chauncey Billups
In his fourth season as Head Coach, Chauncey Billups holds a cumulative record of 81-165. That figure is just as dire as it sounds, and it’s not expected to improve significantly this year.
Some believe that Billups is at fault for Portland’s struggles, viewing him as a rookie coach struggling to find his footing. Others contend that the Blazers have dealt him a challenging situation, having traded Lillard and left Billups in the midst of a rebuild that he didn’t initiate and that seems nearly insurmountable.
Regardless of the perspective taken, the end result remains unchanged. Billups is now effectively a lame duck coach, with only one guaranteed season left on his contract and a team option for the following year. The Blazers have not indicated any plans to extend his contract or activate the team option, nor have they shown signs of providing him with additional support beyond adjusting the coaching staff around him.
This situation puts both the team and their coach in a precarious position, particularly not just in the season’s opening weeks, but as losses accumulate. Does Billups wish to remain in Portland, or is he ready to move on? Are the players still receptive to his guidance? Can his words or actions make any meaningful impact?
Billups finds himself in a metaphorical car stuck in neutral. He can accelerate and steer all he wants, but that’s unlikely to alter his or the team’s trajectory. The storyline unfolding off the court could prove just as compelling as the one during games this year. Unless circumstances change, the likelihood of a coaching change is a question of when, not if, and who might ultimately find satisfaction in that outcome—or not.
Tempo
A key strategy to address Portland’s struggling offense may involve increasing both the tempo and the number of shot attempts. Easier scoring opportunities could assist what became the second-worst offensive unit in the NBA last season. The Blazers are expected to begin the year by attempting to play at a quicker pace.
However, several challenges arise with this approach. To successfully increase tempo, solid defensive play is essential. Running the court after an inbound from the opposing basket is quite difficult. Additionally, fast play necessitates effective rebounding. Last season, the Blazers ranked 25th in field goal percentage allowed, 19th in points allowed, and dead last in defensive rebounds secured. Significant improvement is required if they hope to increase their speed of play.
Quick play often leads to increased turnovers, a recurring problem for the team. Portland ranked 29th in turnovers committed last year. They need to reduce their mistakes rather than increase them. However, they were able to force an average of 14.3 turnovers per game, ranking 5th in the league in that category; at least that’s a positive aspect.
That said, the issue for Portland wasn’t the number of shots taken last year; they finished 10th in total field goal attempts. Their Achilles’ heel lay in their field goal percentage, where they ranked 29th. The Blazers need to focus on improving their shooting efficiency instead of just increasing shot volume, which is a more challenging task.
Additionally, the Blazers are faced with a roster dichotomy. While Henderson and Sharpe are suited for fast-paced play, Grant, Simons, and Ayton tend to perform better in a halfcourt setting. This creates a division among five of their top six players. In reality, the team isn’t structured well for either halfcourt offense or transition play. This dilemma may complicate any efforts to implement a change.
the offense radically.
Bonus: Ping Pong Balls
A lingering question for the Trail Blazers this season is whether they are genuinely aiming for victories. In a highly competitive Western Conference, they appear to be ill-equipped. The enticing prospect of acquiring Flagg and possibly his peers from a robust draft pool might ultimately serve as the primary objective this season. As December transitions into January, fans of the Blazers may find themselves less focused on the total number of wins and more concerned about when to expand the injury report and test out unconventional lineups in hopes of achieving some favorable lottery luck.
Seven Key Questions Facing the Portland Trail Blazers as the 2024-25 NBA Season Kicks Off
1. How Will the Team Adapt to the Loss of Key Players?
As the 2024-25 NBA season begins, the Portland Trail Blazers are facing significant roster changes. The departure of key players in trades and free agency raises the question: how will the team adapt? New acquisitions must integrate seamlessly with the existing roster, and the coaching staff must develop strategies to effectively utilize their talents.
- Impact of Departures: Understanding how the loss of veteran leadership affects team dynamics.
- New Roles: Identifying which players will step up into larger roles and how they will fill the gaps left by their predecessors.
- Coaching Adjustments: Analyzing Coach Chauncey Billups’ strategies to maximize the potential of a reshaped roster.
2. Can Damian Lillard’s Successor Step Up?
With Damian Lillard’s legacy in Portland, the critical question is whether the team can find a player who can handle the pressure of stepping into his role. This transition phase is crucial for the Blazers’ success.
- Identifying a Leader: Will a young player like Anfernee Simons or Shaedon Sharpe rise to the occasion?
- Developing Playmaking Skills: How will the new lead guard distribute the ball and create opportunities?
- Pressure Management: Assessing how a young player handles expectations in a challenging environment.
3. How Will the Rookie Class Contribute?
The Blazers’ rookie class is expected to make a significant impact this season. How well these newcomers perform can heavily influence the team’s trajectory.
- Immediate Impact: Are there rookies who can contribute right away, especially in scoring or defense?
- Long-term Development: What is the plan for developing these young talents throughout the season?
- Integration into the Team Culture: How will rookies adapt to the team’s culture and expectations?
4. Will the Defense Improve?
Defense has been an area of concern for the Trail Blazers in recent seasons. The upcoming season presents an opportunity for improvement, but several factors will determine success.
- Defensive Assignments: Who will take on key defensive roles, and how effective will they be?
- Coaching Focus: Will the coaching staff prioritize defensive schemes to enhance performance?
- Player Buy-In: Are the players committed to improving their defensive efforts?
5. What Will Be the Team’s Offensive Identity?
As the Blazers adjust their roster, establishing a clear offensive identity becomes vital. This identity will define how the team competes in the league.
- Playing Style: Will the team lean towards a fast-paced offense, or will they focus on half-court sets?
- Ball Movement: How critical will player movement and ball sharing be in the new system?
- Shooting Efficiency: Can the squad improve its shooting percentages from last season?
6. How Will Injuries and Depth Affect Performance?
Injuries can derail a season quickly, so depth is crucial. The Blazers need to ensure they have the necessary bench strength to weather potential injuries.
- Injury Management: How will the team manage player minutes to mitigate injury risks?
- Bench Contributions: Who among the bench players can provide consistent scoring and defense?
- Adaptability: How quickly can the team adapt to injuries in key positions?
7. What Are the Playoff Expectations?
as the season kicks off, the Blazers need to define their playoff aspirations. Are they aiming for a championship run, or is the focus on development and rebuilding?
- Realistic Goals: What are fair expectations for this team based on current roster capabilities?
- Playoff Contenders: Which teams in the Western Conference pose the greatest challenges?
- Strategic Planning: How will the front office approach trades and acquisitions based on the team’s performance?
Benefits of Addressing These Questions
Addressing these key questions will assist the Portland Trail Blazers in formulating a strategic plan for the 2024-25 NBA season. Here are some benefits:
- Clarity of Vision: Establishing clear goals allows players and coaching staff to align their efforts towards common objectives.
- Enhanced Team Chemistry: Understanding roles and expectations can improve team dynamics and performance.
- Informed Decision-Making: Data-driven insights can lead to better in-game adjustments and roster decisions.
First-Hand Experiences and Case Studies
Many teams that have faced similar transitions have successfully navigated their challenges by focusing on these fundamental questions. For instance:
- Miami Heat (2020-21): After losing key players, they reshaped their identity and focused on player development, which helped them reach the playoffs.
- Boston Celtics (2021-22): After addressing their defensive shortcomings, they became one of the best teams in the league, showcasing the importance of a solid defensive strategy.
Table: Key Questions and Their Importance
| Question | Importance |
|---|---|
| Adaptation to Loss of Key Players | Critical for team cohesion and performance. |
| Successor to Damian Lillard | Determines offensive leadership and scoring. |
| Rookie Contributions | Essential for depth and future development. |
| Defensive Improvement | Key to winning close games. |
| Offensive Identity | Defines team strategy and execution. |
| Injury and Depth Management | Mitigates risks and maintains performance. |
| Playoff Expectations | Guides long-term strategy and player acquisitions. |
