I get that there has been some big improvements on the Pelicans, TWolves, etc, but I'm not sure why the Blazers haven't gotten more credit. Rookie of the year. Possibly the best power forward in the game. Vastly improved bench. How do some people not have this team making the playoffs? I guess I'm just flabbergasted.
Mo Williams should be in the conversation for 6th man of the year too. No idea why people are sleeping on us, I think we are a lock to make the playoffs.
And we added a legitimate starting center to play next to Aldridge. Let the media, and hopefully the other teams, overlook us, then surprise the shit out if them. Besides, being slighted is always good motivation. I'd love to see these guys play with a chip on their shoulder all season long. BNM
Well...I tend to agree with them. I said this before but If Jerry Sloan was coaching them, I think they would be but as it stands, I think they are on the fence. I know there are a lot of you who have absolutely loved what Olshey has done this offseason. That's great. Glad you do. I'm not sharing the same feeling. You look for moves you know that will make a big difference and I can't say the players they brought in are clear difference makers. Or in Neils words. Needle movers.
So you don't think going from the worst bench unit of all time (that now features, what, 3 people completely out of the NBA?) to an at least average, if not above average bench, moves the needle? I'd say that as a compilation right there, makes a BIG and clear difference. Not to mention it shouldn't be one big, long, layup line now that we have a true center.
With a draft pick on the line, something different or let the bench remain horrible for one more year.
Also, history has shown that players don't win championships with the team that drafted them. Case in point about Oden. If he stays healthy, he is almost guaranteed a ring. So you want us to TANK... (which almost never works) I NEVER advocate losing on purpose. It's weak...
For those that see this team underrated, please see that we have two proven bench players, and two proven bigs on the entire roster.
We should pool together a nice complimentary gift for Nic from S2 sending him a gratuity for walking him out the door.