Blazers’ Trent Jr. Discusses His Move to the Starting Lineup

Third-year guard Gary Trent Jr. is making the most of his opportunity in the Trail Blazers’ starting lineup. Thrust into a new role following CJ McCollum’s foot injury, the former Duke standout is averaging a career-best 14.0 points per game so far this season.

Following Tuesday’s victory over the Magic, Trent spoke with Trail Blazers digital reporter Casey Holdahl about his transition into the starting lineup.

“It’s same old, same old but it’s most definitely a different feeling,” said Trent Jr. of starting. “When you’re coming off the bench, you’re trying to be a spark, you’ve got a feel for the game, in a sense, being able to watch it, but when you start, it’s almost you’re just thrown in the fire. Go with it, be ready, have fun with it.”

Trent has recorded double-digit point totals in eight of his last nine outings. Moving forward, Trent explained that he is committed to producing at a high level in his new role.

“I feel like I can actually contribute to this team and help us win,” said Trent Jr. “Like I always say, I’m going to do that any way, shape or form but with guys being down, the opportunity is there for everybody to step up, up their level. When we’re losing bodies, everybody has to turn it up a notch.”

Trent, who was selected with No. 37 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, is set to become a restricted free agent in the 2021 offseason.

You can read the full report from Holdahl by clicking here.