For the past few years, the Trail Blazers have been building towards the future. Portland’s long-term progress has shown promising signs, as the Blazers’ future looks bright. They must continue the positive trajectory with the Portland rebuild because they need results. Let’s explore why next season will be crucial for the Blazers.
Why The 2025-26 Campaign is a Make-or-Break Blazers Season
The Portland Trail Blazers have played with zero expectations for the past two seasons. Operating without a superstar like Damian Lillard has helped them focus on development. During the 2024-25 season, the Blazers had a stretch when they won nine out of their 10 games. It was a strong campaign because they won 36 games despite many expecting them not to crack the 20-win mark.
Head coach Chauncey Billups deserves credit for spearheading the team’s improvements. He encouraged players like Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Shaedon Sharpe to become standouts. Even Scoot Henderson bounced back after a disappointing start to meet the lofty expectations. With those improvements, they are now playing with pressure, as the playoffs are possible in the 2025-26 season.
Portland’s Long-Term Progress Must Continue
Due to the improvements seen with the Blazers’ future stars, it is fair to expect a playoff run. They almost made it to the Play-In Tournament this year, but injuries derailed their charge. With another year of development, the players are raring to go again.
Rip City Runs Deep because of YOU.
To the best fans in the NBA — thank you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RzgZcVgoWH
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) April 14, 2025
Henderson and Sharpe look ready to cement themselves as the long-term backcourt. Avdija and Camara have proven they deserve to be building blocks as well. Adding a more mature Donovan Clingan makes for a fantastic young core for Portland. They also have an upcoming pick in the 2025 NBA Draft that could fit well into the system.
Their commitment to development also involves the recently extended coach Billups and general manager Joe Cronin. The two figureheads have been integral to this team’s improvements and will continue their partnership. Billups has committed players, and Cronin has made stellar moves recently that bode well for the Blazers’ future.
The Blazers Have The Tools To Compete In The West
Some might say it is too ambitious to go for the playoffs in the 25-26 season. That should not be the case because the Blazers have the tools to compete in the Western Conference. With the young core improving every game, Cronin and the front office must iron out their supporting cast.
Moves like this really show just how much the game has slowed down for Scoot Henderson.
He takes his time, scans his option, and makes a play for himself. Love to see it 🔥 pic.twitter.com/awE1U6nTEf
— RIPCITYY🌹 (@shaesharpeshow) March 13, 2025
Cronin could make big trades with players like Anfernee Simons, Robert Williams III, and Jerami Grant. They are all appealing players to teams, as the Blazers could swing for a good return. It will be up to Joe and his staff, but he has a good eye for talent. Getting Avdija and Camara shows he has a plan with competitive wing players, but now he should look for shooters.
Surrounding Henderson and Sharpe with shooters could unlock the Blazers’ offense. They are already strong defensively, so ironing out everything else could be the key to the completed Portland rebuild. With progress comes expectations, and it is fair to want a playoff run from the Blazers’ talented group next season.
Photo credit: © Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
