Random Impressions from Preseason Game #1: Blazers 110, Jazz 90
by Dave on Dec 19, 2011 10:38 PM PST
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PrintThe Portland Trail Blazers' return to the court contained plenty of cheer-worthy moments. For those looking to be entertained this year the Blazers probably won't disappoint. Team camaraderie was near universal, hustle only slightly less so. This is going to be a team you can love. That much was evident tonight.
That said, extrapolating much from tonight's score will lead you astray. The Blazers played happily and well. The Jazz should be scouring the waiver wire for Sherlock Holmes because they haven't got a clue. Portland's experience and veteran talent told the tale early and Utah never seriously threatened after that. This wasn't indicative of likely regular season results...assuming, of course, that the Jazz aren't on the schedule 66 straight times. Portland's attack was spirited but flawed. They'll need to show much more, and against better teams, before 20-point wins seem anything but an anomaly.
Here are a ton of observations from the game for your amusement:
- At their best the Blazers play opportunistic defense, pressuring and stealing. When it works the energy level goes sky high. Portland has the horses to do it too, with Wesley Matthews, Nicolas Batum, and Gerald Wallace providing the spark.
- Other than that the Blazers still seem to rely on switches too much. In a sense it works, as most of these players are interchangeable defensively. But communication is spotty and rotations still miss, leading to too many open shots. When the Blazers aren't opportunistic they're pedestrian...maybe a notch above that against the Jazz but better teams are going to carve them up.
- Without Marcus Camby there's no interior defense to speak of. This could become a huge issue. I'm circling that key in red ink if I'm a Portland opponent.
- I'm also worried about Portland's transition defense with some of the guards. Many of them seem too young, too slow, or just not quite interested. Maybe that's the 20-point lead talking but I'm sweating a little.
- It's disturbing how easily and frequently the main rotation players drift into a perimeter game. In the first part of the contest--the part where everything looked most normal--the Blazers didn't score anywhere but from the outside. If that doesn't change--and keep in mind that the Blazers aren't suiting up a true post player right now--the offense is going to go through huge droughts and that transition defense is going to get tested.
- The starting lineup (tonight sans Aldridge) did rebound well. That was a great sign.
- The Blazers seem to set screens better tonight than we've seen them do for years as a team. Maybe that's Utah's defense talking but I hope not. Portland has been begging for solid picks from multiple positions for years and making do with Joel Przybilla and a bunch of half-hearted efforts around him. These guys know what they're doing, seem to know the value of a good screen, and the guards know when and how to shoot coming off of a solid pick.
- Nicolas Batum had an active game...much more noticeable than he's been in the past. His early rebounding was particularly nice. He also drove a little as the game passed. He looked more assured than we're used to seeing...a great sign for the Blazers.
- Wesley Matthews still doesn't have a drive in his repertoire but he excelled everywhere else, scoring 17 on 7-10 shooting for the evening. His defense was nice, as always.
- Raymond Felton knows where to be on the court and how to get a pass off. Andre Miller did too but you pretty much knew when and where Miller was going to try and score. Felton looks more dangerous from more places while possessing much of Miller's brainpower. The caveat here is that he's playing so far beneath the rim right now he needs SCUBA gear. Part of that is his natural game and part of that is extra weight. I fear a Felton-Matthews combo for the lack of drive finishing power, though.
- Gerald Wallace looks just as spastic (in a good way) as ever. Only he could sell that much for a pre-season game. He was head over heels in the stands twice and helping other teammates up all over the floor.
- If tonight was any indication, Kurt Thomas may be the second coming of Juwan Howard around here. He played smart and hit his shots, contributing more than you'd expect.
- Jamal Crawford looks plenty quick. He dished 7 assists...a great start to his Blazer tenure. The Jazz pretty much looked scared of him though...he discombobulated them by dribbling. "What do we do?!?"
- Three young guys had memorable nights. Nolan Smith hit a couple of nice shots and looked like he was at least halfway into the season already...still rookie-ish but confident and smart rookie-ish. Elliot Williams just caught on fire, shooting off the dribble and screens both. E-Will went 5-7 for 13 points in 12 minutes. If he can drive and dish too...woot! This guy has the strut going on already. (Again, though...Jazz. And Jazz scrubs to boot.) Chris Johnson probably solidified his place on the team with 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks in 27 minutes. It never hurts to have an energy guy off the bench.
- Two young guys were forgettable or worse. Armon Johnson was forgettable. Luke Babbitt was worse.
- Overall the Blazers look quicker this year than they have in recent memory. Faster makes up for some holes. Or at least it does in the pre-season.
The boxscore for your perusal.
Share your thoughts on--or questions about--the game below. And don't forget to check out the interview with Blazers' owner Paul Allen below.
--Dave (blazersub@yahoo.com)
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Seriously though,
Gerald Wallace needs to stop thinking of himself as a “guard”. His shot is flat.
I like the new Blazers. Jamal, Kurt, and Craig are solid bench players.
Camby looked pretty good. That’s very encouraging. The ice packs on each knee just prove that he is a vet. Still, it’s nice to see an active CJ, because he might be called on often this season…
/s
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Dec 19, 2011 10:43 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
I couldn't help but think Kurt Thomas in a Blazer Jersey looked familiar...
then I realized he looked like he could be Oden’s younger brother.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
by Decaf on Dec 19, 2011 10:48 PM PST up reply actions 5 recs
You mean older brother
Much older, with a better body health wise(knock on wood)
Formally known as: My_name_a_rudy
by Blaze_that_trail on Dec 19, 2011 10:53 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
Whoosh!
Faith applied reasonably is practical magic.
by Matthews vs Roy... Fight! on Dec 19, 2011 10:58 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
No. He meant what he said.
My Grandpa looks younger than Oden
Crash's jumper has more arc than Drexler's used to
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Crash's Jumper
Prettier than Camby’s Jumper.
Prettier than Marion’s Jumper.
…prettier than Popeye Jones?
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:53 PM PST up reply actions
Camby's jumper looks dialed in again
few Bedgers will remember that when Marcus first joined the team in the winter of ’09, he trebuchet was finding twine with regularity
then he strained his right shoulder, and his shot as off last season
when he’s on it’s a weapon, and when his defender plays Camby honest, then MC canshow off his passing skills
There were no alley-opps in the half court tonight, did anyone else notice? OTOH the Jazz had several
The post-Dre era has begun
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
We had a couple of nasty looking oop attempts
So sad. If Camby sticks around as a starter maybe he can rack some oops up with LMA. As terrible as the attempts were tonight, I’m pretty sure LaMarcus would have converted them both.
What I mean by that is
there’s a reason he is open. Teams are happy to take their chances with him from the perimeter. I think it much smarter to work the offense elsewhere so he can go hurt the other team with his hustle. Our starting unit is going to be incredibly streaky from outside…
/s
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Dec 20, 2011 9:44 AM PST up reply actions
And Clyde's had more than Luke's used to!
"Tom Lawson McCall, Governor or Oregon, invites you to visit . . . Washington, Idaho, Nevada, or Afghanistan." --Pair of bumper stickers on our baby blue 1966 Plymouth Fury III when I was growing up in Portland, pre-Championship.
That's #20, by the way
Just in case I need to clarify. (I sort of assumed the name “Luke” was retired along with that jersey up in the rafters.)
"Tom Lawson McCall, Governor or Oregon, invites you to visit . . . Washington, Idaho, Nevada, or Afghanistan." --Pair of bumper stickers on our baby blue 1966 Plymouth Fury III when I was growing up in Portland, pre-Championship.
I like the balanced scoring
Luke led the 77-78 team with 20ppg, but one of the hallmarks of that group is that they’d have 5-6 guys in double figures every night, and not always the same names. We’ll see if the trend continues, but the scoring column against Utah reminded me of some of those old Blazer boxscores
spread it around, it makes the defense work much harder when they can’t focus on stopping one or two players
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Great way to start a season.
Blazers blow out opponent…..Lakers get blown out. Rec, anyone? ;)
by Sumito on Dec 20, 2011 2:17 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Our guard situation is very solid indeed
Thomas and Smith makes our frontcourt tough, but are they really enough?
Dave, this is a fairly big part of the Blazers play...LMA.
keep in mind that the Blazers aren’t suiting up a true post player right now-
So, with that in mind..I’d hope the post defense is somewhat better.
But he's so wide, like Barkley...
Proper Position and girth can make up for a lack of length….
by Visionary1 on Dec 19, 2011 11:03 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
exactly, plus he hit a 3!
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:16 PM PST up reply actions
oh man...
I’m gonna take it a couple years back and say “TWSS” ^^
by smoothbeans on Dec 19, 2011 11:19 PM PST up reply actions 5 recs
Last thing I want is the Portland Trail Blazers having a Hank Gathers esque situation on its hands.
Would put Greg Oden and Brandon Roy’s injuries into perspective, though.
"I Am Mine"
Yep.
I’m still watching for Chuck’s retirement announcement. It’s possible he can come back later, but a voided contract is certainly not a good sign.
arggg
that bums me out
"I was a victim of a series of accidents, as are we all."
by thankyouforblaze on Dec 20, 2011 1:18 AM PST up reply actions
He said tonight he plans to be back on the court
I’m wondering how realistic the goal is. We don’t have much info yet.
Timmay is right
Also I would rather cut armon and sign pryz back. Apparently his knees feel better than ever. oh yeah craig"the rhino" smith looked pretty good out there as well and kurt was great.
Formally known as: My_name_a_rudy
by Blaze_that_trail on Dec 19, 2011 10:58 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
It's true. I have stood up for Armon in the past, but he and Babbitt look like my neighbor kids are controlling them in 2k12
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:18 PM PST up reply actions
I expect Przy back after Xmas and AJ gone via a trade for a 2nd round pick.
There is no place on this team for Armon. He is now our 6th guard behind Felton, Matthews, JC, Nolan, and Email. If we don’t move him he’s just headed to the D-league anyway.
"You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man." - Matty Walker in Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Dec 19, 2011 11:20 PM PST up reply actions
I don't even expect a second-rounder for him.
Just deal him to a team with an open roster spot for the rights to some cruddy Eurostash player.
"I Am Mine"
save yourself an adjective and go with 'Eurotrash' player...
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:32 PM PST up reply actions
Sure that works too. They just need to make another roster spot for Przy.
"You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man." - Matty Walker in Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Dec 19, 2011 11:40 PM PST up reply actions
Actually I want to give credit to aj
For not getting trapped at halfcourt like last year. But he has bad D and offense. Hope they buyout his contract and sign pryz. HOPEFULLY they see this as well. They found some good FAs to plug the holes. Now just another backup center and we can be ATLEAST as good as last year in my opinion. Although Williams>Rudy anyday. Maybe if we got lucky enough to sign pryz we could also buyout babbit. I would rather have earl barron than babbit. Atleast at fanfest barron looked decent
Formally known as: My_name_a_rudy
by Blaze_that_trail on Dec 19, 2011 11:51 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
I would like to think that Chad has the stones to waive Luke
but I think Babbitt is showing jusst enough improvement to warrant his place on the roster, in the eyes of the same scouts who suggested to PA that the team should trade up and select him in June ’10
who wants to tell Paul that his baby is ugly?
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I bet PA would be ok letting Luke go
That transaction was as much about Martell as it was about Luke.
Why waive Luke Babbitt? That'd be a waste of money and cap space.
At worst, trade Babbitt to a team with cap space that’ll take on his salary.
Heck, Indiana could take on Babbitt and Armon Johnson for a Eurostash player (e.g., Stanko Barac). Reunite Babbitt and Johnson with the person responsible for drafting them, Kevin Pritchard.
"I Am Mine"
by AK1984 on Dec 20, 2011 12:26 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
give me a break
Everybody is dogging this kid, who hasn’t even had a chance yet. he did get into the paint last night for three buckets, some nice assists, and what I saw was at least two blocks. once he starts hitting the three everyone will just call him unorthodox. McMillan seemed to think he did alright,
by heybabydrinkyourmilk on Dec 20, 2011 2:26 PM PST via iPhone app up reply actions 1 recs
who can he defend?
I watched Vandeweghe play for a few years back in the ‘80s. Kiki was a guy who could really score and so you could put up with his inability to not defend anyone. He tried, but he just couldn’t do it
Luke Babbitt is no Kiki Vandeweghe
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I actually wouldn't be surprised if
Patty Mills replaced Armon when he is released from his Chinese team (from his twitter it looks like he’s pushing for it).
by simoninaustralia on Dec 20, 2011 3:33 AM PST up reply actions
Really hope that doesn't happen
If we get rid of Armon we shouldn’t rehash the disaster that was Patty as backup PG last season. Please no.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
We need a center not a 6th guard.
Camby can sprain an ankle and be out 4 weeks at a time. His injury history and recover periods are awful.
"You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man." - Matty Walker in Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Dec 20, 2011 11:28 AM PST up reply actions
Roy said his knees felt good as new 4 days before he announced he was retiring.
So I’d take player talk with a grain of salt.
We can take more out of this game then people are giving us credit for
We demolished the jazz. If we demolish bad teams, we should be right there with good teams.
All in all I feel very positive about this team.
And I saw a lot of drives to the hoop as well as athletic finishes by Wesley Matthews…
So I have to disagree with you there Dave.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
Yeah
And I saw a lot of drives to the hoop as well as athletic finishes by Wesley Matthews…
So I have to disagree with you there Dave.
Crawford & Nolan seemed to have a contest early in the game on who could make the most difficult layup… Love the aggression. If Jamal Crawford can play like he did tonight all the time, we are a contender. He looked like a Point Guard, a legitimate Point Guard.
Paul Allen, the 2011 Trail Blazers Owner/GM
Funny, but I musta missed Jamal's, oh I dunno, last 6 assists?
Watching him play, I came to the quick conclusion that he never saw a shot he didn’t like (which is great for the second unit)… They must have been some quiet 7 assists.. but I’ll take it!
Yeah I had Bayless flashbacks...was laughing out loud
He’s worlds better than Bayless but the jump passes and trigger happy made me laugh.
It's true, he's not measured and calculating, but his style fills a niche on our squad
I think this is going to be a very fun team to watch, indeed! Also, respect his years.
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:19 PM PST up reply actions
I saw a lot of drives to the hoop as well as athletic finishes by Wesley Matthews
There were a couple in the half court, one in particular where WM stopped on a dime at the dotted line and “gave no change”
Either Mr. Decker was making dinner for the little PG during that period of the game, or perhaps he was watching a game recording from last year, when Matthew’s ankle was still gnarly
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Felton looks like
…a significant upgrade over Miller. He puts a lot more pressure on the defense in transition and in the half court. He’s much more mobile.
Yeah. He's a little more dynamic as a scorer..
Plus he’s a better defender. Dre was crafty, but Ray seems to have that, plus a more consistent effort level.
but I wouldn't claim go as far as you and say huge upgrade...
but I think there is a slight one there. Still early to say, but liked what I say form Felton tonight.
Ive seen felton dunk
That alone means upgrade. That and 3s
Formally known as: My_name_a_rudy
by Blaze_that_trail on Dec 19, 2011 11:53 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
i've seen Dre dunk and go for 52 against the defending champs.
"Per John Hollingers twitter - Over the final 12:45 of today's game, Brandon Roy's PER was 84.98" GM 4 vs Mavs
by blazinagain on Dec 20, 2011 12:07 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
They were most definitely not the defending champs when he played them.
Not to get in the way of the Andre/Felton talk, of which I don’t think there is an answer yet.
'Dre dunked against Denver
I don’t think it’s necessary to diss Miller to prop up Ray…if not for ‘Dre the last 2 seasons, Portland would’ve been in the lottery.
And LMA would still be considered a soft player who’s NBA career has plateaued
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
by two4larue on Dec 20, 2011 12:13 AM PST up reply actions 7 recs
yes. Big standing o for 'Dre when denver comes to town.
And a golf clap for Rudy.
"She fell in love with the drummer, another and another"
by Cap'n Crash on Dec 20, 2011 12:43 AM PST via mobile up reply actions 4 recs
Noone is "dissing"
Andre. just saying felton is going to be a better choice for us, faster, younger, can shoot 3’s and can dunk more than once every 3 seasons. I remember that game where miller scored 52 but I also know he hasnt made it.into the 30s anytime after that
Formally known as: My_name_a_rudy
by Blaze_that_trail on Dec 20, 2011 1:47 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
I think Ray is an upgrade as well
but Felton could also be an injury risk, I sure hope not
when it comes to Miller I have only 3 words
respect these years
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I didn't know what to expect from Felton
but it felt “right”, watching him out there.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:00 PM PST up reply actions
"right"er than it should
for his first game as a Blazer. I’m hopeful.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Dre had his issues fitting in
Ray doesn’t seem to have any issues at all…
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:13 PM PST up reply actions
True. He is a natural fit for this roster
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:20 PM PST up reply actions
Dre gave anyone a fairly low bar to jump over.
LOVE Andre Miller, but he was not at all savvy when it comes to the media and making himself beloved through what he says when he is new to a city.
He is.
I’m a huge Dre guy, but watching Ray run this team was a pleasure.
Liked Nate’s comments post game that he didn’t call many plays tonight, just let Ray run it…
YESSS!!!
Kinda like Phil did
and he’s got a few rings i heard.
Jackson never took over a rebuilding team, either
he either had MJ, Shaq and/or K*be to turn to , when the triangle bogged down
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
agreed
but I still think a team runs better then its players are calling the shots, and the coach is just guiding them.
a veteran team, yes
young teams need guidance
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
by two4larue on Dec 20, 2011 12:25 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I thought Babbitt had his moments actually
When he went inside he looked surprisingly good. Couple good passes too. It wasn’t much but more than I expected.
by Sheed'sTowel on Dec 19, 2011 10:51 PM PST reply actions 3 recs
He needs to keep the 3 as a last ditch weapon, pump and shoot that sweet 15-18 ft shot.
If he can do that and not turn the ball over there is a spot for him on the team. I still think the 3 will come, but it might be a little while.
by PortlandPhil on Dec 19, 2011 10:53 PM PST up reply actions
Totally. I can really tell that he worked on getting a quicker release.
He has a long way to go, but he looks like he’s improving.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
yeah we had him just standing around trying to make the three all last year
looks like he was much better on the move.
Agreed
I only saw him for wnd of 3rd and half but other than him being slow and some not so amazing D he looked better.
Formally known as: My_name_a_rudy
by Blaze_that_trail on Dec 19, 2011 10:56 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
When he shot on the move he looked good.
When he had time to think about his shot he looked terrible. Who knows what that means long term, but get that boy some roller skates!
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
True, but he was running into his own guys on D and couldn't figure out how to get past the screens
He is a liability out there, but I’ll say he is looking better.
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:21 PM PST up reply actions
Babbitt didn't look worse than forgettable, to me
He worked hard on defense – although he was arguably on the wrong side of an athletic mismatch. He didn’t hit two wide open corner 3’s – but he did drill a nice three from the top of the arc, and missed a flaming ball of fire at the shot clock from waayyyy deep. His two point shooting was solid, passing was unselfish – but occasionally too unselfish.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
Agreed
His early game minutes were horrifying. Later he looked like he may have been a net positive on the court. But he’s not gonna get that kind of time to settle in during a meaningful game…
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Far too negative Dave
I had a great time watching this game, I saw positive signs from everyone, including Babbitt. I’m excited for these guys to get some games under their belt together. I don’t understand what you expected to see tonight, given the circumstances.
by Mattco26 on Dec 19, 2011 10:55 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
Getting a little of this too
but I expect it has something to do with protecting some of us from our enthusiasm. I always appreciate perspective but it can be a wet blanket sometimes.
Kurt Thomas would eat Juwan Howard for lunch.
"I Am Mine"
by AK1984 on Dec 19, 2011 10:56 PM PST reply actions 3 recs
In Dave's defense, I think he meant another OMC (OldManContributes)
However, Howard was a stopgap – whereas Thomas looks like a legit rotation player.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 10:59 PM PST up reply actions
Kurt Thomas is the ultimate mistake free player.
He’ll body up on defense, box out for rebounds, and hit those elbow and baseline jumpers with superb efficiency.
"I Am Mine"
by AK1984 on Dec 19, 2011 11:05 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Plus he has the Karl Malone power strip thing down
He’s got all the elements of the floor bound game. He actually is a bit like a poor man’s old Malone. The look on Hayward’s face when KT stripped him clean at the hoop was great.
by BaylessFace on Dec 19, 2011 11:16 PM PST up reply actions
Kurt is a model of efficiency
I like it.
"I was a victim of a series of accidents, as are we all."
by thankyouforblaze on Dec 20, 2011 1:23 AM PST up reply actions
No joke.
I was borderline offended by the comparison.
by Nick Van Excellent on Dec 19, 2011 11:11 PM PST up reply actions
This team should easily make the playoffs
We looked great tonight. Loved what I saw.
Roster has great balance.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 10:57 PM PST reply actions
This team should easily make the playoffs
Time to pull an LAL and not watch the regular season, win a title, and talk a bunch of trash.
I kid.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
After the last lockout the Blazers did pretty well...
…we have a shot at it, better roster than many teams in the league.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:03 PM PST up reply actions
You are right, Sir.
I was mostly taking a shot at Laker fans, but this deep Blazers squad could really tear up a depth-lacking NBA like the one this year.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
I thought our Defense was the biggest surprise of the night
It seemed like we caused a ton of turnovers, we had 15 steals and 7 blocks—that to me is a good sign and should make Nate happy.
by cavejunctionblazer on Dec 19, 2011 10:59 PM PST reply actions
That's with backups getting heavier minutes too
And most of the game we had a solid lead.
Our starters/heavy rotation players killed it.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:01 PM PST up reply actions
Creating turnovers has always been a strong suit.
Still way too much switching in the halfcourt and lax transition defense, though.
"I Am Mine"
Switching defenses can be very effective
See: 2008 Celtics.
It requires commitment to closing out and hedging, which the top 8 or so of our roster seemed to do.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
by sabonis11 on Dec 19, 2011 11:11 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
That is a good insight. We saw some of the upside of SOS defense tonight, with double teams, steals, and pressure D
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:24 PM PST up reply actions
Exactly, our past SOS defenses that featured players like Blake, Outlaw, and Roy
didn’t work because they did not commit to closing out quickly. Contrast those three players to Wallace, Matthews, and Batum, these guys are going to commit.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
I just hope that doesn't lead to overcommitting and getting exploited
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:32 PM PST up reply actions
That is the risk
And why it only works with communication and shot blocking.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
As this team gels defensively, I think people will witness the power of SOS, and that it will feed our fast breaks nicely
I was also encouraged by the shot block attempts tonight. There is a definite defensive ethos on this team, and that looks like it will translate this year to efficient D and O! I will look forward with interest to see…
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:45 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I respect those years (and comments)-
good call on the defense, look forward to seeing more of it during the season and playoffs (hopefully).
by simoninaustralia on Dec 20, 2011 3:40 AM PST up reply actions
Interesting interview between KP2 and Thibodeau on the 08 Celts D
I don’t see how you can compare TT’s scheme in Boston with the garbage Nate has run in PDX these past few seasons. Maybe I’m missing a common thread but to say those Celtics settled for switches on the PnR anywhere near as often as we do would be pretty inaccurate IMO.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
Yeah it should improve a little though
It’s amazing that these guys actually managed to gel that well. I expected a whole lot more sloppy defense and stagnant offense. Turn overs should come down a little too.
Felton Crawford Thomas CJ
C Smith N Smith have all had VERY little time with this franchise. I was SHOCKED how well this team seemed to click tonight. However I am worried about how so many new guys will react when we face some tougher teams.
Nolan Smith has that backup PG spot locked up
No doubt about it, he’s got that game.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 10:59 PM PST reply actions
It was nice to see him knock down a couple
Was a little worried after the FanFest.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
I didn't see it
And based on what I did see – I’d much rather Crawford should get backup PG minutes with Williams getting backup 2 minutes.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:01 PM PST up reply actions
Ya this is kind of necessary to get Williams minutes, which he clearly deserves.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
EW
Good, but not close to Nolan on D from what I’ve seen.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:06 PM PST up reply actions
In our trap defense that we played tonight
one-on-one match-ups won’t matter the way they have in the past.
Don’t get me wrong, I like Nolan, but we need to get Elliot on the court.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
Both were top notch defenders in college
Not sure where you are getting ‘not close’ from. Fanfest and one preseason game?
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
Crawford at the 1 or 2 is fine
But I really like what Nolan brings and I think he will take the primary backup pg minutes.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:05 PM PST up reply actions
Could be...limited action in a pre-season game shouldn't be a death knell
but I really don’t know what to expect from Nolan. He is a bit of a mystery, to me.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:06 PM PST up reply actions
And Nico can forget about minutes at the 2..
except on D…
Wes, EW, Craw, Ray, Nolan? We got ourselves enough guards…
As long as Wallace is getting minutes at the 4 and LMA at the 5
this shouldn’t be a big rotation issue.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:11 PM PST up reply actions
with this style of offense
LMA,G3,Batum,Wes$,Felton I think is our best starting line. Of course this is going to depend on the team we are playing. But if its a team we can run our game against, that should be the starting line.
I was saying since the day we got Ray...
THAT lineup is going to play some good D, and generate some fast, easy hoops.
That's probably how it's going to work.
It’s hard to see how those guys won’t be on the floor together for significant stretches. They click. Unless Batum can play the 2 in the NBA, which would be REALLY dangerous if it worked and he developed a post game, Wallace will have to play the 4.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
I love Nic at the 2
But yeah, with our current roster he seems to fit better at the 3 than Wes/Jamal/EW do.
Ray can play the 2, but I really don’t see him logging minutes there.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:14 PM PST up reply actions
Yeah I want to see how Jamal and EWill do
Smith will need minutes too just to develop but if Williams can continue to show the potential he did tonight a line-up of…
Crawford/EWill/Nico/Smith or CJ/Kurt could be dynamite from the bench.
Added bonus would be Crawford more familiar with running the team if Raymond ends up sitting a few games.
And don't forget
Felton could leave town next year. Leaving us with only Smith at the PG spot. We definitely need to develop him.
I liked his D but offensively he was just meh for me.
He finished in traffic with both hands which was nice, but I don’t know if he puts those down at a good rate. I worry about his quickness, and his jumper.
Nolan shows a great lateral quickness on defense
…and he’s a rookie so I cut him a little slack on offense execution.
Great thing is that he’s a SMART rookie who should learn and develop his offensive feel at a solid pace.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:11 PM PST up reply actions
I think Nate will default to experience, as he does, with Nolan getting the "promising young player" minutes
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:25 PM PST up reply actions
did you notice Smith never returned to the floor
after he forced a drive, got hung up and threw the ball away?
Nate sent AJ in, and Nolan got to sit and contemplate ball control for the rest of the game
I forsee mainly a 3 guard rotation of Felton-Matthews-Crawford for all of the critical minutes in big games, this season. And if Smith isn’t more careful, Williams will edge him out for PT, with Crawford setting up the halfcourt (PnR) offense for the bench unit
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
That was just to make time for Email who never played in the first half.
I suspect Nate planned that all along. Nolan in the first half, Email in the 2nd half.
AJ just got a couple of minutes on the hope that some team will offer us a 2nd round pick for him when we need to dump him to make a spot for Przy.
"You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man." - Matty Walker in Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Dec 19, 2011 11:55 PM PST up reply actions
I actually think it bodes well...
Good sign that Nolan wasn’t starring in garbage time with Babbitt and Armon.
Nate seems to trust his game.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:57 PM PST up reply actions
the first half 20 point lead shrunk with Smith in the game
and then was maintained, with Email in the game in the 2nd half
nothing should be decided yet, but in a little more than a week Email has gone from a “suspect” to a young star on the rise. Veterans like LMA went out of their way to single out Williams for praise before the fan fest, so it’s not like he’s a flash in the pan
all of this makes me wonder how well he’ll be thought of next week
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Huh?
While very little can be taken from +/- in a single game, Nolan Smith’s +5 trumped Elliot Williams +2.
http://www.nba.com/games/20111219/UTAPOR/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp0011100013#nbaGIboxscore
"I Am Mine"
Doesn't prove anything, as you said.
It was one preseason game. For all we know, Luke Babbitt could hit 7 threes in the next game and we’ll be raving about his outside shot and wondering when he’ll upstage Batum.
Just meant two4larue's "the first half 20 point lead shrunk with Smith in the game ...
and then was maintained, with Email in the game in the 2nd half" comment missed the mark.
"I Am Mine"
by AK1984 on Dec 20, 2011 12:56 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I actually attributed this to AJ and not Smith necessarily
AJ managed to quite visibly choke away 5 or 6 points to end the first half. +/- is kind of a tough stat when young players are being swapped in and out of the game.
It looks to me like Smith may have the better overall game and basketball IQ.
It’s hard to tell what I’m seeing in EWill after one game. He has ridiculous athleticism and he’s showing some skill. Makes me wonder what his ceiling is. He could turn into something very special.
Yeah, Armon Johnson was on the court during the last 1:05 in the half when ...
Portland gave up 6 unanswered points.
"I Am Mine"
I'm finally over hoping for Armon
with Smith & Williams performance. Not to mention Crawford’s solid contribution at the point.
Paul Allen, the 2011 Trail Blazers Owner/GM
Nolan entered the game in the 1st quarter
and rode the momentum wave with most of the starters still out on the floor
OTOH, Williams was instant offense in the 4th quarter. Most of his running mates won’t see much NBA court time this season
when Smith got “creative” with the ball, he found himself back on the bench. He’d better learn this lesson quickly, or you’ll be the one criticizing McMillian for not playing a rookie guard enough, this season
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I won't criticize Nate for benching Nolan Smith if turnovers are an issue. Fair is fair.
Tonight, I was irritated with turnovers by both teams. It started early when Gerald Wallace got a charge called against him when he barreled down the court with reckless abandon.
"I Am Mine"
Hard offensive charges
My old bread and butter move. Jumping knee to the chest/midsection.
Setting the tone is worth the foul.
Loved seeing Crash properly Crash!
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 20, 2011 1:07 AM PST up reply actions
You could see it coming a mile away, though.
Yet, to be fair, one could argue that it did set the tone.
"I Am Mine"
I think CJ is going to be a good player in this league
by cavejunctionblazer on Dec 19, 2011 11:05 PM PST reply actions
Extremely fluid for a guy his size.
Knows how to play for the most part and the added weight has helped him some.
So we play Utah again in a couple days for our last preseason game
It looks like an easy early schedule opponent wise-
phillie
sac
denver
la clips
OKC—our first real test?
by cavejunctionblazer on Dec 19, 2011 11:14 PM PST reply actions
ESPN will tell you LAC is
But I’m not sold on them yet. I don’t feel too threatened by either LA team this year.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
I saw
LAL isn’t much this year though (knock on wood)
I see a very similar year to ’04 coming… except the meltdown has already started.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
One can hope! Meltdown in LAL would be great!
I think OKC will be our first big game vs quality opponent.
by cavejunctionblazer on Dec 19, 2011 11:22 PM PST up reply actions
I do like the competition though.
I know it’s dumb, but it bothers me that we’ve never made it past them while they were at there best.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
Still, it's always fun to watch the Lakers break down
It’s always in such epic and hilarious fashion.
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
agreed
id way rather beat a team that was at its best, but LAL have been spoiled for years, so a little meltdown would be nice for a change! : )
by cavejunctionblazer on Dec 19, 2011 11:30 PM PST up reply actions
LAC is good at the first 5
after that they get a little iffy. I don’t see CP3 playing all 66 games, which will be a big hit. A lot of people want to put them in top 5 in the west, but I don’t think with their lack of depth, will be able to win that many games.
I dont trust the clips for two reasons:
1 I don’t think they have a great coach.
2 they’re the Clippers… We’ve been down this road before and it always ends in the dump.
"She fell in love with the drummer, another and another"
by Cap'n Crash on Dec 20, 2011 12:58 AM PST via mobile up reply actions
As for #2...
… I hope those days are behind them. Sure, last thing we need is more competition in the West, but I’d love to see the Lakers have to take a back seat to the Clips for the next decade or so. Makes me giddy just to think about it!
"Tom Lawson McCall, Governor or Oregon, invites you to visit . . . Washington, Idaho, Nevada, or Afghanistan." --Pair of bumper stickers on our baby blue 1966 Plymouth Fury III when I was growing up in Portland, pre-Championship.
Chris Paul can take over any game, sometimes that's all you need
In a relatively weak Western conference they could be top 4
#7
Don't sleep on Philly out of the gate.
That’s a well-coached team that can make some noise.
"I Am Mine"
by AK1984 on Dec 19, 2011 11:27 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
They're a team to watch. Indiana too.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
they always give Portland fits
no lead is safe
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
It's true Philly could beat us in that game
They kept their roster largely identical, much like in the NFL continuity will matter early this season. Philly got a terrible rub schedule wise though, with a 5 game road trip to start and 9 of their final 11 games on the road.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
About that signature...
I’d love it if Paul Allen was skulking around this site under the name “420Phenom”!
"Tom Lawson McCall, Governor or Oregon, invites you to visit . . . Washington, Idaho, Nevada, or Afghanistan." --Pair of bumper stickers on our baby blue 1966 Plymouth Fury III when I was growing up in Portland, pre-Championship.
now that you mention it,
Ben ! You should have asked PA if he reads BEdge !
I know there were more important issues, but a last second quickie ?
The Blazers are back !
Favors finished with 25 and 12 and looked like the best player on the court.
At least part of that was bad interior defense.
by Nick Van Excellent on Dec 19, 2011 11:22 PM PST up reply actions
And...
…at least part of that was no LMA.
by BlazerNation on Dec 20, 2011 12:07 AM PST up reply actions
He got abused in the post a couple times. It really depends on match-ups with him. He’s probably fine against most backup 5’s.
by Nick Van Excellent on Dec 20, 2011 12:17 AM PST up reply actions
yeah he was pushed under the backboard a few times
that’s bound to happen to a guy who still weighs less than 220
Przy is still needed
someone on the radio earlier today was saying that CJ is having trouble understanding the PF position in Nate’s system
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
CJ can't play the 4 on offense, which is a problem under Nate McMillan.
I honestly doubt Johnson has a future and would gladly waive him, but meh.
"I Am Mine"
The defense was putrid by both teams tonight.
Particularly Utah, which will likely be looking for a new coach next summer.
"I Am Mine"
Hope the 3pt shooting comes around
Take away EWill’s little mini-explosion, and the Blazers shot 3-20 from behind the arc. Eerily similar to the horrid fanfest brickathon.
it was nice to see Nic coax one in
Matthews will shoot better, based on his career percentages
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
I don't see the Thomas->Howard comparisons but...
Via Basketballreference
Similar Careers for Kurt Thomas:
Juwan Howard
Others listed: Orlando Woolridge, Mike Miller, Robert Horry, Joe Smith, ANNDDD Maurice Lucas
"Brandon Roy has done this before."
Mike Miller?
Okkkkk
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:31 PM PST up reply actions
For Kurt Thomas, his best age based comparison is Kevin Willis.
At 40, Willis was still going strong; he even won a ring with the Spurs.
"I Am Mine"
I love the new up tempo game..
Im only worried about our age at the C position but everything else I am stoked for. We have young tall athletic AND skilled guys. Cant wait…we are going to be an exciting team for sure.
WITH ODEN ON OUR SIDE
Wow. I was really impressed tonight.
There is definitely a palpable synergy to this roster. The veterans are tough and know how to play within their means, the guys in their prime are playing great basketball, and the young prospects (outside of Armon and Luke) look like quality NBA material.
Our D was a bit sloppy, but showed some pressure, hustle, grit, and (dare I say) scrap. The fast break looked a bit rough a times, but it looked like a weapon that will make teams pay for mistakes. The half court offense had some pick and roll peppered in there that will look great once LMA takes the floor, and was passable even without him.
The transition D was a bit late, as was the help D. I hope that comes with time and more gelling.
Overall, I would give this game a B+/A- with serious upside.
(Also, I’m breaking in my new username. I think I’m gonna like it.)
formerly known as Matthews vs. Roy... fight!
by Respect_these_years on Dec 19, 2011 11:31 PM PST reply actions
It could be an interesting competition between Nolan and Email for the 4th guard spot.
It looks like JC can play the backup 1 or 2. So the 4th guard (which gets some minutes) could be Nolan at the 1 or Email at the 2.
"You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man." - Matty Walker in Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Dec 19, 2011 11:32 PM PST reply actions
I'll go out on a limb and call this one for the rookie
kidding aside – Email looks like something special, while Nolan looks like someone solid…
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:34 PM PST up reply actions
Way too early for comment on Elliot for me.
He had a good night. In the preseason. Against a likely below-.500 Jazz team. And mostly against their backup players. In a blowout. That is just too many things to really have any takeaways from this, other than that he can look really really good in the right situation.
Lots of players have looked like world-beaters in that situation, even in the regular season.
I’m very much waiting to see how things are going after 20 games or so.
by Timmay! on Dec 19, 2011 11:42 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Absolutely. But what you say applies equally to Nolan and Email. Hence an interesting competition.
"You're not too smart, are you? I like that in a man." - Matty Walker in Body Heat (1981)
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Dec 19, 2011 11:49 PM PST up reply actions
Yep, it definitely applies to both of them
This should be interesting to watch. Each player brings a little something different to the party.
I was underwhelmed
by EMail’s defense. He appeared to kind of give up on plays after a few passes. It was rather astonishing to watch. Hopefully that isn’t his standard MO.
He'll get a lot of coaching for his defense
A lot of rookies struggle on D, the NBA is a much more skilled, faster game than college. Some improve, some don’t. I guess we’ll see…
Webster improved
…with coaching, so hopefully that’s the case with Williams. He reminds me of a more athletic Juan Dixon for some reason.
All things in context
but Williams is no less a rookie than Smith (actually, he is more of a rookie than Smith) playing against the same competition with very different results.
Law of Logical Argument
Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
by blacknoiseNW on Dec 19, 2011 11:53 PM PST up reply actions
Williams doesn't have the pedigree that Smith has
but Email has the skills and the swag
Nate doesn’t like handing the reins to rookie PGs, so Jamal at the 1 and Elliott at the 2 might be the way the coach leans. It will probably come down to which young guard plays “off” of Jamal the best, and is solid re: team defense
I’ll say it again, if he stays healthy and continues to receive steady PT, EW could be looked upon as the steal of a very weak 2010 draft class. He’s already >>> Luke Babbitt who was selected #16
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
"so Jamal at the 1 and Elliott at the 2 might be the way the coach leans."
With Jamal Crawford, Nate can play Nolan at the 2 on offense and have him guard 1s on defense.
"I Am Mine"
he could, if Smith beats out Williams
what seemed like a foregone conclusion a week ago, is closer to 50/50 today
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
In the end, I expect that most of the backcourt minutes will go to Wes/Raymond/Jamal.
For the 4th guard spot, only 12 minutes or so per game will be available. My money is still on Nolan over E-Will, though.
"I Am Mine"
Even being an avid fan of Elliot, I agree
Nolan is the older, more experienced (4 years at Duke vs high level comp for Nolan vs 1 year at Duke and 1 at Memphis against sub standard comp for Elliot), more ready player. He’s far closer to his ceiling at this point and his game also lends itself to taking a back seat role more than Elliot’s. This makes him a far more likely 4th guard this season, considering most of his minutes would be playing next to a high usage, ball-handling guard in Jamal.
The reason I’ve been on the E Will bandwagon since close to the draft is that I see the potential for him to be a starting, feature guard who is also a playmaker on defense. He has to work out how to apply his game at the NBA level though, which will involve much work finishing with his off-hand as well as making his jumper more consistent. I doubt Nate lets him make these improvements in significant minutes on the court unless injuries force his hand. For Elliot it’s likely take in as much as you can from the bench, work hard on your flaws before, during and after practice and seize every minute on the floor as best you can.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
I think these small minutes will come down to matchups more than anything
I like that Nate has athletes with some length to fit into these matchups versus Patty and Armon to fill 8-12 minutes and then need them 20 for an occasional game
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 5:00 AM PST up reply actions
plug in Aldridge and unplug the Nevada boys and
This game wouli this would have been a 30-40 pt win. Babbit and Johnson got way more touches than the will realistically in the regular season. Preseason is their time to shine and right now they don’t look very shiny.
Off topic but was Kenjon Barner at this game?
I caught a glimpse of a guy sitting with floor seats next to the Jazz bench look a lot like him…
yes, that was him
Not sure what ring he was wearing but it w as BIG. Uncle Phil buys the nicest gifts in the pac
I don't think the
pac12 rings have come in the mail yet.
The pac12
hasn’t been around for long enough for 2 of anything to be made.
I dont know
thats why I said “I don’t THINK”. My comment wasn’t long, or hard to read.
Most definitely Kenjon in the White and Blue shirt
Sitting with the lady on her phone.
I said hi to him in my mind from across the court.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:45 PM PST up reply actions
Oh...
That was for Kenjon?
I thought you were thinking to me.
by BlazerNation on Dec 20, 2011 12:11 AM PST up reply actions
I totally said "wassuuuuuuuuuuuuup" to you in my mind
It was exactly like that budweiser commercial.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 20, 2011 12:52 AM PST up reply actions
Let the fetishization of Elliott Williams begin!!
1. He’s probably not going to play that much.
2. Fans will complain about it non-stop, believing he’s the next DWade. (Just like Sergio was the next Steve Nash.)
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
by Benjamanic on Dec 19, 2011 11:42 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
yup
while elliots 3’s were hitting tonight, they could’ve very easily have not and we would all be saying nolan looks to be the better 4th guard.
I am saying Nolan is better than EW
Right now, All-around game.
Hope they both play great for us regardless!
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 19, 2011 11:59 PM PST up reply actions
i've casted my vote for nolan as well.
I think he will be a more complete player in the long run. i think EW will be a poor mans jr smith this year, maybe better down the road.
I'm going to wait.
Fortunately, they both play for the Blazers and they can prove it on the court.
I’m good with either one as long as one of them proves out.
by BlazerNation on Dec 20, 2011 12:13 AM PST up reply actions
I'm leaning towards Smith
only because IDK what Felton plans on doing next year. But I know we have Nolan under contract for a few years to come. So if Felton bolts, I would like a PG with at least on year of XP under his belt.
I was high on Armon
But in these last 2 outing, I have lost all interest.
Nolan in the long run isn't much different to Nolan now
4 year guy with limited upside (due to him already being a smart player and his lack of even above average NBA athleticism).
I’m fine with Nolan getting minutes this year but I don’t see him being much more than a good backup down the line, maybe a dependable but limited starter at best. Elliot on the other hand has all the tools to be special should he put it all together. Will he? No real clue but I like that he’s a smart kid who thinks defense first. Gives him a better shot IMO than immature guys like Gerald Green and Sebastian Telfair, who just flat out thought they were better than they were.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
I dont understand
Why people think 4year guys are headed for mediocrity. He is one of the most experienced rookies out there this year and has showed that. BRoy was a 4 year guy and that didn’t seem to hold him back, just those knees.
Most 4 year guys
have less room to grow when they hit the NBA, just due to the fact they have been playing and improving for longer than guys who come out after less time in college. Brandon was an exception to that rule but even then, superstars like Derrick Rose and Kevin Durant who came out after one year have made more significant strides, mainly because they started out as more raw, less rounded players and grew during their first couple years in the NBA rather than doing that in college.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
i thought sergio was the next jason williams
Jeff Pendergraph:
FGM - 3
FGA - 111
Min - 30
Reb - 10
by Tofu Anonymous on Dec 20, 2011 12:20 AM PST up reply actions
well, they're both out of the league, aren't they?
"I was a victim of a series of accidents, as are we all."
by thankyouforblaze on Dec 20, 2011 1:50 AM PST up reply actions
I'm sure it's already been said
But Chris Johnson played 27 minutes, Earl Barron plays 0. Guess any drama of who is gonna be cut is over. Especially since L.A. was a DNP and Barron still didnt play.
Kinda too bad.
You’d think the guy could get a job somewhere. Looks like he’s improved.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
The Glass half full would note
Maybe Earl has done enough that Nate is needing to see more from Luke and Chris. Or, maybe tonights minutes are Chris’s and Wednesdays are Barrons?. If you only have two games to look, I’d rather give each guy a chance of over 25 minutes so they get a sweat and feel for the game. Especially with both against the same team
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 5:03 AM PST up reply actions
Scratch that ;-)
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 9:58 PM PST up reply actions
i forgot how awkward Adam Bjornson is.
by solid_soup on Dec 20, 2011 12:06 AM PST via mobile reply actions
Yeah. He makes Michael Holton more awkward too.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
at least he doesn't say
“tell them what they’ve won, Michael!”
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Agreed. There has been improvement.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
I'm also not a fan of the halftime crew
I know they’re doing their best, it just doesn’t work for me.
Seeing Holton as a sideline reporter is a different story.
He’s really not bad in that capacity because he knows his basketball.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
The whole Blazer broadcasting crew needs the chop.
| 23.1 | .647 | .605 | 15.6 | 28.3 | 21.9 | 6.7 | 0.9 | 7.7 | 17.8 | 20.7 | 118 | 100 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 | .214 |
by MadBlaze on Dec 20, 2011 3:33 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Time to rebuild the broadcasting crew around Merlin (nm)
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 20, 2011 9:10 AM PST up reply actions
Ive mostly pointed out good things from tonights game
heres some of the bad stats from the boxscore:
Utah outrebounded us by a grip 41-33 w/ 17 o-reb to our 7
Utah had more fastbreak points than us 18-12
Utah had 42 points in the paint
We had 16 turnovers vs a subpar Utah team
by cavejunctionblazer on Dec 20, 2011 12:12 AM PST reply actions
Reasons, not excuses
Lamarcus changes some of that.
The regular rotation changes most of the rest.
by BlazerNation on Dec 20, 2011 12:14 AM PST up reply actions
Not as much as we would like though.
One of Aldridge’s biggest liabilities is his rebounding.
The Dos Equis guy lives life like Chip Kelly calls plays.
more Camby (and Przy later)
and most of those def rebounds don’t fall into enemy hands
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
IDK how much I like priz coming back
he isn’t going to be able to keep up with our O.
Yeah, I'd rather have a guy whose knees aren't shredded wheat.
Not sure if Erick Dampier has officially hung up his sneakers, but I’d take him easily — easily — over Joel Przybilla.
"I Am Mine"
have u given up on the Blazers trading for Okafor?
"I was a victim of a series of accidents, as are we all."
by thankyouforblaze on Dec 20, 2011 1:51 AM PST up reply actions
he can keep up with Kurt Thomas
and I suspect everyone who expects to see the “2010 version” of #10 is going to be surprised
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
you don't miss you don't need to rebound
by MPP24 on Dec 20, 2011 7:48 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
often overlooked....
Or… Often not needed to look at. We haven’t often hit above 45% ;-}
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 8:38 AM PST up reply actions
That's ok, I suffer from sometimers too.
"Per John Hollingers twitter - Over the final 12:45 of today's game, Brandon Roy's PER was 84.98" GM 4 vs Mavs
by blazinagain on Dec 20, 2011 12:27 AM PST up reply actions
Box Score Trivia - "Why'd we draft those guys again?" edition
Guess the only Blazer with a “-” in the “+/-” stat tonight!
1. No, it wasn’t Luke Babbitt.
2. Yes, it was Armon Johnson.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 20, 2011 12:48 AM PST reply actions
Any1 else
planning on re watching this game at 1 A.M.? Or is that just me?
I'll have it on
Always have trouble sleeping after games.
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 20, 2011 12:54 AM PST up reply actions
I just saw myself catch the ball
And hand it back to Wallace.
Good play. :)
Enjoy the Ride
Blunt+Sharp
by DigitalDaggers on Dec 20, 2011 1:27 AM PST up reply actions
lol
"I was a victim of a series of accidents, as are we all."
by thankyouforblaze on Dec 20, 2011 1:52 AM PST up reply actions
It is hard to take away any extreme lasting judgements on any Blazer players when playing Utah.
That being said there are a few things to take away even from one game.
1. The depth has markedly improved on this team.
2. The tempo of the team is faster than we have seen in years without Miller running point.
3. The team still will need to work on transition defense
4. Jamal Crawford will be a difference maker on this team.
5. Ball movement was markedly improved.
6. Portland desperately needs a better inside defensive prescence than Camby. If only Oden was healthy.
7. This team beat a bad team convincingly without Aldridge. Safe to say things are looking up.
"The tempo of the team is faster than we have seen in years without Miller running point."
The last time that Portland ran with any regularity was a 5-22 stretch during the spring of 2005.
"I Am Mine"
Ya
I wouldn’t say Miller had much of anything to do with that slow style of play. I think the biggest thing that says. Is we have moved away from the Oden Roy LMA era, and the style of basketball we were gearing up to go along with those 3 players. We have now entered a new era, and have a lot of runners on our roster.
Not knocking 'Dre at all
but I think because Felton has an outside shot, the defense has to guard him for it, and I saw him able to drive into the key earlier in the shot clock as a result. I haven’t seen Felton and ‘Dre in a foot race, but it definitely looked like Ray has a speed advantage and the ability to catch the defense off guard. Dre’ was a bit more limited athletically, and as a result needed to set up the offense, and then use his veteran smarts and great BBIQ to create opportunities.
I agree though, that the way we played D, with Wes, Wallace, Batum and Even Felton pressing was a big part of the increased speed (and scoring) we saw this game. It will be interesting to see how it plays out in future games, because although it looked like the Jazz played pretty poorly, they are not a bad team.
by simoninaustralia on Dec 20, 2011 3:55 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I think that outside shot is the most important thng to Felton being an upgrade fit
I Love Dre. However, if you want LMA to have room and options, Felton will give that more.
With Dre, his guy could sag off him. While his guy doesn’t double LMA, he does interfere with passing and cutting lanes so that the other doubles are more effective. Felton gives spacing. In the NBA, that is huge.
I also like how this team seems cohesive and supportive. Yes, this is preseason. But to me, that we didn’t blow a 20 point lead is huge. Utah made runs, but the game never got close. Last years squad had a trait of letting leads turn into close games
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 5:10 AM PST up reply actions
We know what to expect from this team.
Two truths: we are very unlikely to run, and we are very unlikely to play good pick and roll defense.
Nate is one of the longest-tenured coaches in franchise history. Whatever we may think of Crawford, Thomas, and Smith, it’s fairly obvious that they are guys who will fit in well with the system. We’ll probably make the playoffs, provided we’re a bit lucky with injuries.
It’ll be a fun year. It seems like wins are just more fun when you expect nothing.
Nate is one of the longest-tenured coaches in franchise history.
McMillian passed Adelman last year (in regular season games, not counting post season results) only Dr Jack has more tenure
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Not sure on which planet Babbitt was worse than Armon.
by jksnake99 on Dec 20, 2011 1:47 AM PST reply actions 1 recs
I have to agree,
But then Babbitt got substantially more floor time to get into a rythym. I thought he did some excellent things (passing, hustle) and some turrible things (D, and just generally being smaller, slower, shorter than the folks he was up against). But AJ was pretty much exactly what he was last season, which is absolutely a concern.
LaMarcus has to raise his level of play. Last year he pretty much became the go-to guy for us. Nothing changes, we are certainly going to stay in that direction. - Nate McMillan
by conspirator5 on Dec 20, 2011 3:32 AM PST up reply actions
I was surprised at Babbitt's handle-
a few behind the back passes, were there some pick and pops with him as the ball handler? Dude’s got some point forward skills (okay, not a lot, but I think he actually played better as a ball handler than AJ this game).
by simoninaustralia on Dec 20, 2011 3:59 AM PST up reply actions
Seems the Bright lights are hard for Babbitt
He was a player in Nevada. The court is the same size. Yet, he looks lost on it in the NBA. When he goes to the D league, he is heads and shoulders above the others. Then, back to the NBA and he looks lost. Luke, it is the same court
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 5:12 AM PST up reply actions
Babbitt
I’m a believer. He just needs to settle down. The guy can shoot and he is a big with the ability to move like a guard (rare). Some dudes take a little longer to develop. It’s in the head for Babbitt, he is moving to fast and that will change with time.
Look forward to it.
Last year i saw him get a pass and never look to the rim. A shooter needs to look at a shot unless he knows someone is open and already is kicking the pass over
Roy Bashing~ "Blakes gone...Brandon is next alphabetically " ;-}
by Hermistonmelons on Dec 20, 2011 8:39 AM PST up reply actions
yeah, considering he has demonstrated skills,
it does seem psychological.
There used to be a phobia therapy called ‘implosion therapy’ where you just overwhelm someone with an overload of whatever they are afraid of – essentially ‘extinction’ therapy. Putting the guy on the floor rather than having him brood about his fears/failures is what I woiuld do. Pre season is ideal for this.
The Blazers are back !
Coach Dale needs to break out the measuring tape
When reached 40+ years of following Portland basketball you have, be as passionate of the Trail Blazers you will not!
Yeah I wasn't sure where that comment came from either
Despite missing most of his three’s Babbit didn’t look all that bad out there
Excited about everything everyone's mentioned EXCEPT 6-23 from distance.
26%. Looks like shooting could be a problem again this year.
...also, if I were Nate, I'd release Johnson and keep Barron.
More guards than the team knows what to do with, and an extra big man could never hurt.
Release both (eventually)
And sign Przy.
by 52therim on Dec 20, 2011 6:50 AM PST via mobile up reply actions
It was a great start
But let’s not get carried away. It was a good performance in a preseason game against a brand new coach and a Jazz team that has no real identity that I wouldn’t expect to challenge for a playoff spot.
The faster pace is really nice to watch but it will get exposed by a competent team and we’re vulnerable in the post (Favors looked pretty good against us).
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