Blazer’s Edge Radio: Filling the Void

Last Friday’s devastating, season-ending injury to Rodney Hood was a major focus on this week’s edition of Blazer’s Edge Radio. While the loss deals a major blow to any hopes of a deep Trail Blazers playoff run, it does create an opportunity for younger players on the roster to take on an expanded role.

This Tuesday, show hosts Ryne Buchanan and Sam Arnold argued that the team would be wise to issue the 30 minutes per game previously allotted to Hood to players like Gary Trent Jr. and Nassir Little, as opposed to trying to making a desperation move in an effort to salvage a high playoff spot. We’ve already seen Little crack the rotation, but his minutes have dropped with the addition of Carmelo Anthony. Trent has not yet seen any kind of consistent action during his still young NBA career, but has shown flashes of potential on both ends of the floor.

The rest of this season should be dedicated to giving an opportunity to younger players to improve, and potentially shine. The team can likely still make the playoffs, but will need these players to help fill a significant hole left by injuries. More importantly, however, this allows the Blazers a better, in-game look at guys who could be difference-makers next season when the team is fully healthy.

Catch an archived version of this week’s show, featuring a special appearance from Dave Deckard, here.

Blazer’s Edge Radio returns Tuesday, December 31st at 12pm on XRAY FM.