Portland Trail Blazers Current Starting Lineup And Bench: Ready To Tank?

The Portland Trail Blazers are heading into the 2024-25 NBA season with renewed optimism and a retooled roster. Following a challenging season, the Blazers have made several strategic moves to bolster their lineup and improve their standing in the Western Conference. The offseason was marked by key acquisitions and draft picks that aim to reshape the team’s future.

Most notably, the Blazers acquired Deni Avdija in a trade with the Washington Wizards, bringing in a versatile forward known for his defensive prowess and playmaking ability. They also made a significant addition in the draft, selecting Donovan Clingan with the 7th overall pick, a promising center who is expected to strengthen their interior defense and rebounding. Alongside these new faces, Portland retained crucial players and signed several others to add depth to their bench.

These moves, combined with the existing talent of players like Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant, put the Blazers in a strong position to compete. As the team prepares for the new season, let's take a closer look at the starting lineup and bench for the 2024-25 Portland Trail Blazers.

Point Guards

Scoot Henderson, Dalano Banton

Scoot Henderson is set to lead the Portland Trail Blazers' backcourt this season. Last season, Henderson averaged 14.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Known for his explosive athleticism, playmaking ability, and scoring prowess, he is expected to take a significant step forward in his development. Henderson's ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates will be crucial for the Blazers as they aim to make a playoff push.

Backing up Henderson is Dalano Banton, who was acquired during the offseason. Banton brings versatility and defensive tenacity to the point guard position. Standing at 6'7", his size and length make him a unique asset in the backcourt. Banton's ability to handle the ball, defend multiple positions, and contribute in various facets of the game provides the Blazers with valuable depth. His experience and skill set will be essential in supporting Henderson and maintaining the team's momentum when the starters are resting.

Shooting Guards

Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, Rayan Rupert

Anfernee Simons remains a key offensive force for the Blazers. Last season, he averaged 22.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. His scoring ability and playmaking skills are crucial for Portland's backcourt, providing consistency and leadership.

Shaedon Sharpe showed significant improvement in his second season, averaging 15.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. Known for his athleticism and scoring prowess, Sharpe is an explosive option who can contribute significantly both as a starter and off the bench.

Rayan Rupert, a promising young talent, adds depth to the shooting guard position. Drafted in 2023, Rupert has shown defensive versatility and potential as a reliable scorer. His contributions will be vital in providing stability and energy off the bench.

With Simons leading the charge, Sharpe's growing potential, and Rupert's promising talent, the Blazers have a strong and dynamic group of shooting guards ready to make an impact in the 2024-25 season.

Small Forwards

Deni Avdija, Matisse Thybulle, Kris Murray

Deni Avdija, acquired from the Washington Wizards, brings versatility and defensive skills to the Blazers. Last season, Avdija averaged 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple areas. His defensive prowess and playmaking ability will be valuable assets for Portland.

Matisse Thybulle is known for his elite defensive capabilities. Last season, Thybulle continued to excel as a perimeter defender, often taking on the toughest assignments and disrupting opposing offenses. His defensive presence and ability to guard multiple positions are crucial for the Blazers' defensive schemes.

Kris Murray, a promising young talent, adds depth to the small forward position. Drafted in 2023, Murray has shown potential as a reliable scorer and defender. His development will be important for providing additional options off the bench.

Related: Chicago Bulls Current Starting Lineup And Bench: Another Disappointing Season And Tank For Cooper Flagg

Power Forwards

Jerami Grant, Toumani Camara, Jabari Walker

Jerami Grant remains a pivotal player for the Blazers. Last season, Grant averaged 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. His scoring ability and defensive versatility make him a cornerstone of Portland's frontcourt.

Toumani Camara, who joined the Blazers as part of the Damian Lillard trade, adds depth and defensive toughness to the power forward position. Known for his hustle and defensive prowess, Camara's energy off the bench will be crucial for the Blazers.

Jabari Walker, entering his second season, provides additional depth. He showed promise in limited minutes last season and is expected to develop further, contributing both defensively and offensively.

Centers

Deandre Ayton, Robert Williams III, Donovan Clingan, Duop Reath

Deandre Ayton, acquired in the blockbuster trade involving Damian Lillard, is set to anchor the Blazers' frontcourt. Last season, Ayton averaged 15.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, providing a strong presence in the paint both offensively and defensively. His ability to dominate inside and protect the rim will be crucial for Portland’s success.

Robert Williams III, another key piece in the Blazers' frontcourt, offers elite defensive skills and rebounding. Last season, Williams averaged 6.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Known for his shot-blocking and defensive versatility, Williams adds significant depth and defensive prowess to the team.

Donovan Clingan, selected in the 2024 NBA Draft, is a promising young center who brings additional size and shot-blocking ability. As he adapts to the NBA, Clingan is expected to provide valuable minutes off the bench, contributing with his rebounding and defensive presence.

Duop Reath adds further depth to the center position. Known for his energy and hustle, Reath will be looking to make an impact in his minutes on the court, providing the Blazers with another solid option in their frontcourt rotation.

The Blazers Are Ready To Tank

The Portland Trail Blazers are setting themselves up for a strategic rebuild aimed at securing a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. With a series of calculated moves, they have amassed a valuable collection of future draft assets, putting them in a strong position to potentially land high school sensation Cooper Flagg.

To maximize the potential of their picks and their rebuild, the Blazers might consider trading either Deandre Ayton or Robert Williams III. This move would create more playing time for Donovan Clingan, allowing him to develop further and contribute more significantly. Trading Ayton or Williams could also bring in additional draft assets or young prospects, further accelerating the rebuilding process.

By strategically positioning themselves and focusing on developing their young talent, the Blazers are aiming to be major contenders for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft. Landing Cooper Flagg could be a franchise-altering move, providing a new cornerstone to build around for future success. The combination of their current young core and potential future stars makes Portland’s rebuilding strategy both promising and exciting.

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