Are you curious about the 2016 Portland Trail Blazers roster? You’re in luck because we’ve all been there: wondering about the new look of the team. These are the most important points to remember. We will also discuss the most important players so you can make informed decisions before the season begins. Continue reading to learn more about 2016-2017 Portland Trail Blazers season.
Damian Leonard is our resident 3-point specialist. He is a good shooter, but tends not to make contact at the rim. He is also a strong defender and possesses an above-average defensive game. In addition, he is a good locker room presence and a good shooter. His shooting range could be improved. Damian Leonard, the PG, may be a little undersized to help the team in the early going.
Despite the absence of any veteran power forwards, the Blazers did return all but one rotation player from last season. They finished 44 games last year and made the second round of the Western Conference playoffs. The team has a lot of talent, thanks to its deep bench and high level of athleticism. As of Aug. 3, the Blazers’ average age was 24.1. Aminu, a 6-foot-9 forward, is currently in his second season on a four-year contract worth $30 million. He will likely play power forward, but is expected to also contribute some points.
In addition to Al-Farouq Aminu, the Blazers also added a veteran center in Evan Turner. The two guards are both aggressive, and a lot of the offense will depend on them to make things happen off the dribble. Noah Vonleh will miss the season after having off-season thigh surgery. Maurice Harkless is performing better in his role.
Another free agent, Chris Kaman, joined the Trail Blazers this summer in a two-year deal worth $15 million. He spent his first four seasons with the Golden State Warriors and won the 2015 NBA Championship. Kawhi Leonard and Eric Griffith will be good sources of offensive rebounds as well as inside scoring. The Blazers acquired Vonleh in a draft-night trade with the Charlotte Hornets.
The Portland Trail Blazers are making progress despite a disappointing off-season. The front office has added some solid role players, but Damien Lillard hasn’t been happy with recent moves. Enes Kanter, Carmelo Anthony, and Zach Collins all left town. The addition of Ben McLemore, Cody Zeller, and Greg Brown could be the right move for this team. The team still needs to find a center to complement Lillard and Nurkic.