Blazers’ Zach Collins looks to remedy foul trouble

Trail Blazers big man Zach Collins is still learning the ropes in the NBA. The former Gonzaga standout has shown glimpses of his potential, but he is still learning the nuances of being a professional post player. Specifically, Collins has struggled with extended stretches of foul trouble in the early portion of the season.

NBC Sports Northwest’s Dane Delgado recently took a closer look at the issues impacting Collins’ ability to stay on the court. Delgado explained that a decent portion of Collins’ issues come from less-than-ideal footwork and aggression.

Second, Collins has found more trouble when he uses his hands rather than his feet for defending. He often gets frustrated when caught on screens or if he’s lost the battle for position down low. In those moments he’s been overzealous, resulting in fouls away from the ball.

In his own words, Collins delivered an assessment regarding his problem areas.

“The ones at the rim I can live with,” said Collins. “But the ones where a guard goes by me and I put my hands down … those are things I can’t live with.”

After a rough stretch to finish November, it appears that Collins is beginning to turn the corner when it comes to foul trouble. In the Blazers’ last four outings, he has been whistled for a combined total of six fouls.

You can read Delgado’s full post at NBC Sports Northwest.