Blazer Bravo
The continued development of the youngest Blazers
Though some may find fault with the starters’ minutes or the team’s transition defense, there should be little criticism about player development. This season, coach Terry Stotts has surprised with his rotation — giving the 10th through 15th guys a chance. At one time, Luke Babbitt played as a fourth-quarter clutch performer and Victor Claver elevated from a ‘DNP’ scratch into a replacement starter. So by the time this season concludes, don’t expect to hear “We want NO-LAN!” chants. Everyone has had a chance and for better or worse, Blazer fans should be familiar with each player’s capabilities.
Also, in the recent absence of LaMarcus Aldridge, Stotts took it a step further and found two opportunities to play all five rookies at the same time. Even more interesting, the young lineup closed out the first quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies. Good minutes played against three Memphis starters, and positive feedback received from one Blazer veteran player.
“It’s fun to watch,” J.J. Hickson said of the five-rookie lineup. “Everybody got their turn to prove something, playing within themselves but also proving that they belong in this league. We know it’s fun to watch. I feel like every second you’re out there, you’re definitely learning something as a group because there’s nothing like playing five-on-five in this game.”
• • •
Damian Lillard winning his fifth consecutive Western Conference Rookie of the Month award
