Stotts starting 5

[Nate Dogg]

The names aren’t really a surprise, but it shows that the Trail Blazers are going to be young and athletic this season. And a lot of fun to watch.

Speaking with the media, coach Terry Stotts confirmed the starting five in Portland (via Joe Freeman of the Oregonian): Damian Lillard, Wesley Mathews, Nicolas Batum, J.J. Hickson, and LaMarcus Aldridge.

That’s a pretty interesting group. Aldridge is a legitimate All-Star big man, a guy you can build around. Batum gives the Blazers good offense and great perimeter defense with a smart all-around game.

Lillard is a talented rookie who was a co-MVP of Summer League (and is my pick for Rookie of the Year), a guy who can score but has to learn to run a team. Hickson and Mathews are athletic guys getting a chance to prove they should be starters trusted with major minutes.

Portland is not a huge threat as constructed, not in a deep Western Conference. But they are pretty good, and definitely interesting. This could be one fun team to watch.

Source: http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports....lazers/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

 

[Nate Dogg]

So I guess pre camp is already over. LOL !!!

 

[jlprk]

Which one should we call the Center? The one who's a foot shorter?

 

[axs88]

Which one should we call the Center? The one who's a foot shorter?

That's Matthews..........

 

[jlprk]

Why do you think Matthews should be called the Center?

This enlightening thread should be merged with

http://sportstwo.com/threads/222267-Stotts-Names-Pre-Camp-Starters

 

[MARIS61]

Hickson will be replaced by Leonard before the break.

 

[dviss1]

Hickson will be replaced by Leonard before the break.

Probably because we are pumping his trade value.

 

[THE HCP]

The level of Hicksons play was amazing last year! I know the season was over, but there were tons of players who's teams seasons were over that didn't bring it like he did! Hope it continues.

 

[MickZagger]

It was really smart to sign Hickson to a 1 year contract. We should do that for the rest of his career.