FanPost

What's your favorite non-Blazer preseason development?

This site has followed the off- and preseason developments of the Blazers so closely that it wouldn't surprise me to see an in-depth article detailing a time-series analysis of Damian Lillard's sneezing frequency, along with the requisite forty or so comments how this compares to everyone else we could've had at 6. (Andre Drummond uses a neti pot? Whyyyyyy did we pass on him?!?)

I love it. I love knowing the stories that give us a glimpse into the lives of our guys, the ones that make them all seem a bit more human. I know we're going to be bad this year, but I'm going to enjoy rooting for each and every person on this team. Yes, even Babbitt.

But surely our team is not unique in this respect. 30 teams of 15 (plus change) players each makes for a lot of interesting stories. What else is going on out there? What other interesting developments are happening around the league that might be flying under the radar right now? The only other team I follow as closely as the Blazers is the Celtics. Please share anything you consider interesting, exciting, despicable, or what have you.

Not really personal stories, but just a few things I've noticed so far:

  • I had never heard of Chris Copeland prior to this month, but he is one exciting guy to watch. I've seen him and the Knicks play against Boston twice this preseason, and he went off on them for 21 and 34. Dude looks like he belongs on the court. I'll be interested to see how much playing time he can earn for himself. Keep an eye on him.
  • Klay Thompson is looking far more mature than the second-year player that he is. He's been lighting it up from downtown, and always looks poised and comfortable. I'm sure I'm behind the times, but I only just learned that he is Mychal Thompson's son. I like this kid.
  • Celtics look unbelievably stacked this year, and Danny Ainge is a magician. Adding Jason Terry, Courtney Lee, Jared Sullinger, and Leandro Barbosa, in addition to resigning Garnett, Brandon Bass and Jeff Green? Wow. This team got younger and faster; Green is looking great, and when Avery Bradley comes back, watch out! I feel like the first five people off their bench could easily be starters on other teams. I'm really rooting for Darko, too; it would be nice to see him shake off the bust label, and be able to settle in to a nice role player niche.
  • Whyyyyyy did we pass on Faried?!?