The Portland Trail Blazers are taking a rest at the All-Star break after going through the first half of the season.
The Blazers have missed the playoffs for the past four seasons, but there is reason to believe that drought could end this spring. RotoWire contributor Joel Bartilotta thinks the Blazers are on the right path.
“Portland had a goal of reaching the postseason this season after a strong finish last year, and they’re trending in the right direction,” Bartilotta said. “After going 9-6 last month, the Trail Blazers come into this matchup winning three of their last four games. That has Portland sitting 10th in the Western Conference, cushioning a five-game lead over the Memphis Grizzlies in 11th. That means this organization is headed in the right direction, and the play of Deni Avdija is a major reason why.
“The 2020 Top 10 pick was rewarded with his first All-Star appearance this season, averaging 25.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game. Donovan Clingan has also made some massive improvements in his second season, averaging 11.5 points, 11.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. This is the core this team wants to build around, and it’s a core that could lead Portland back to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021 season.”