I've watched Wesley Matthews the past few seasons with The Blazers and I've seen a tendency. It seems he starts every season out relatively healthy and playing well. But as the season progresses nagging injuries, that he often keeps quiet about, seem to drag his performance down.

This season his hip flexor injury was one inwhich he could not ignore or hide. It forced him to take some time off.

And I would argue he has come back stronger. He's playing great right now, as late in the season as I can remember.

My point being, is this something Matthews should learn from? That sometimes resting for health...should trump The Iron Man personna?

I think in the course of a season I would rather see Wesley miss a few games to rest an ankle, hip or other nagging injury, but keep himself in better condition for the entire season.

Don't get me wrong, I love Wesley's "Warrior" attitude. But I do think he sometimes compromises his overall health and thus ability to contribute in an effort to be the guy that never misses a game.