The Portland Trail Blazers’ offseason is underway, and they will be looking to make improvements with the roster. Portland’s shooting was a massive problem for the Blazers, but thankfully, Damian Lillard‘s return can remedy that. Aside from his comeback, the Blazers still need to make big changes.
The Blazers’ Offseason Improvements Can Decide The Future
The 2025-26 season was a bizarre one for the Trail Blazers. After just one game, their head coach, Chauncey Billups, was involved in a major scandal. That forced the organization’s hand, so Tiago Splitter got promoted to the acting head coach role. He did well, leading the Blazers back to the Playoffs for the first time since 2021.
They managed to steal one win against the San Antonio Spurs, as Scoot Henderson had a breakout. Deni Avdija was the star of the show for the entire campaign, earning his first All-Star nod. Despite the promising campaign, they had plenty of problems that will require some big moves in the Blazers’ offseason plans.
Lillard’s Return Will Not Solve All The Problems
It is normal to feel elated when a franchise icon like Lillard returns to the team. Unfortunately, he will not be the solution for Portland’s problems. He could be the catalyst for the Blazers’ offensive issues in the 2025-26 season. However, he will not be the solitary solution because the team has plenty of talented players who can also improve.
Avdija is the only star-level player aside from Lillard, but names like Toumani Camara and Donovan Clingan could make offensive leaps. Young players like Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe have shown improvements, and playing alongside Lillard could be a big positive.
Most efficient on Pull Up FGA in the Playoffs…
What stands out? pic.twitter.com/9pFHuIBiNH
— Basketball University (@UofBasketball) May 12, 2026
From a leadership perspective, Lillard will add to their impressive locker room. He and Jrue Holiday are two of the league’s most respected players, so that will be a boost. Considering they are also quite experienced, they will be a big part of the 2026-27 season.
It is up to the Blazers’ front office, led by general manager Joe Cronin, to make big decisions. Lillard’s return will not be the only big move they make because the Blazers need much more to compete in the Western Conference. Whether it is big trades or free-agent signings, there should be some steps in the right direction for the Blazers.
Portland’s Shooting Will Require Big Improvements
Coming into the 2025-26 season, it was clear that the Blazers’ three-point shooting would be a problem. Predictably, that did happen because the Blazers were tied for the league-worst in three-point efficiency at 30.2%.
Camara made a career-high 219 threes, shooting 37% from beyond the arc. He was probably the most promising shooter on the team, but he did have some slumps from time to time. Cronin brought on Vit Krejci at the trade deadline, who was a recognized sharpshooter with the Atlanta Hawks. However, he only shot 30.3% for the Trail Blazers.
Toumani Camara leads all forwards this season in games with 8+ threes made. pic.twitter.com/jRZq2Mx18y
— Real App (@realapp) April 7, 2026
In the offseason, Cronin and his front office must look for solutions to the problem with the three-point shooting. They could look for players in free agency, as players like Luke Kennard and Rui Hachimura are available in the market.
Trades could also happen, as there are plenty of sharpshooters out there on different teams. Potential trade candidates could include players like Sam Merrill or Sam Hauser, who are certified snipers.
Apart from the players, this could also be impacted by the coach. Since the Blazers are yet to hire a full-time coach, someone who truly focuses on perimeter shooting in the system could be the solution for the Trail Blazers’ shooting woes.
The Blazers’ Offseason Can Make Or Break Their 2026-27 Season
With that all being said, the Trail Blazers have a massive offseason coming up. Unfortunately, they do not have a single draft pick, so they will have to maneuver by using their treasure trove of picks from other teams.
Cronin has to be smart with his decision-making because new owner Tom Dundon would love to make a big splash. With the market still closed because of the ongoing NBA Playoffs, Cronin should strategize about what his vision is for the long-term future.
With Lillard’s return, anything is possible. As long as the front office locks in for the Blazers’ offseason, Portland could surprise a lot of people in the 2026-27 season.
Featured Image: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
