Bayless probably wouldn’t have played much if the Blazers had remained healthy. He likely would have spent the season trying to gain knowledge from Andre and playing garbage time minutes. What a waste that would have been. Bayless has played extremely well this season. His shooting is solid and his ability to attack the rim, finish, and draw a foul has improved greatly. If Bayless gets the minutes the rest of this season, I think the team will see he is the point guard of the team’s future.

Martell started the season with a big question mark looming over him. And with Nic, Travis and Rudy all looking for playing time and able to play the SF position, he could have easily faded into the background. If he had a so-so year, it could have been dismissed in many ways – coming off an injury, not enough playing time, no big deal because he wasn’t really needed. Now, he is now the team’s only true SF, and they need him to produce. Will he step up? It’s too early to judge IMO. But, at the end of year, the team should have a clear idea of what Martell has to offer to the future of this team.

Travis is the “love him or hate him” player on the Blazers. What does he really contribute to this team? I guess we are going to find out. Honestly, if you question whether your cable package or internet service is worth the money, just disconnect it and see how it goes. It won’t take long to find out if you need it or not. I think the team and the fans will be able to evaluate Travis’ worth much better after a season without him.

Steve Blake may have been the team’s point guard for the next 5 years considering how much Nate and Brandon like him. Bringing in Andre Miller has demonstrated how deficient Blake’s skillset is in comparison (OK, most people already knew this without the comparison). Having people injured, thus opening the door for Bayless to play, may well demonstrate how unnecessary Blake is on this team.

Greg Oden… Never mind. It’s obvious the team needs Greg.

KP and Nate have fallen in love with their players. They don’t appear to see the deficiencies other see. It’s a luxury that a team can exploit when both deep and healthy. The Blazers are neither at the moment. They need everyone to produce to win. They are not winning. I think everyone can do the math.

I have no idea what to expect from this team at this point. I figured they would make the Playoffs and maybe win the division, but I had no illusions of a Championship. I haven’t given up on those first two goals, but mostly, I just want KP and Nate to take a good look at the team and make some hard decisions.