Alright, let’s be honest here. Who had the Portland Trail Blazers being the #1 seed in the Western Conference through the first quarter of the season? Anyone? Pretty sure no one saw this. I’m almost certain most of y’all thought it was just a hot start and that they would eventually cool down. They’ve actually been playing better. Is this team a legit contender? Can we see this team playing in June?
The Blazers have one of the better starting lineups in the league. And with Damian Lillard coming off a Rookie of the Year campaign, he’s only getting better. It seemed as if he would go through a sophomore slump, but he’s doing the complete opposite. LaMarcus Aldrige has been a flat out star this year. While averaging about 23 points and 13 rebounds this year, it seems he’s playing to be considered the best PF in the league. He will for sure be an all star this year. Nicolas Batum will always be a solid player in this league. He helps this team in every single way. He’s not at an all star level, but Portland may not be this good without him. Portland also has one of the better benches this year. Mo Williams was a great pickup for them this season. This is a special team. It’s good to see Portland basketball be great again. They have some of the best fans in the league. They deserve this.
But here’s the question. Is this team a legit contender? I’m sorry, but I just don’t see it yet. I can’t see this team beating the best of the west (Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Clippers, San Antonio Spurs). They won’t beat them, but I guarantee they will put up a fight. Do not take this hot start lightly. They will still continue to get better. And with Lamarcus and Damian leading this team, the future is looking bright in Portland.
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