Jake Layman Helps Blazers with Off-Ball Movement

Portland Trail Blazers forward Jake Layman continues to garner national attention for his cutting, shooting, and hanging tough in the rotation despite an influx of new players. Today Bryan Kalbrosky of HoopsHype added to the chorus, calling Layman Portland’s “secret weapon”.

Kalbrosky runs down Layman’s proficiency with cuts, hand-offs, and jumpers, quoting the man himself:

Layman told HoopsHype he is willing to set screens and constantly move without the ball for his backcourt tandem, creating opportunities for himself when defenders are playing tight on Lillard and McCollum.

“I was always comfortable moving without the ball,” said Layman. “Now it’s all just coming together.”

Kalbrosky also quotes Layman’s future outlook:

“I’m going to keep the same mindset,” said Layman. “Just got to always be aggressive.”

Layman is averaging 8.1 points on 54.1% shooting, 37.1% from the three-point arc in 47 appearances for the Blazers this season.