The Portland Trail Blazers are scheduled to play the Los Angeles Clippers on October 25, 2023, to kick off the 2023–24 NBA Season. After their poor 13th-seed finish last season with a 33-49 record, the Blazers have made some crucial moves this offseason to bolster their roster.
The team is entering into a new era after trading away Damian Lillard, the team’s all-time leading scorer. This season, the Blazers have acquired Malcolm Brogdon and Deandre Ayton and also drafted the highly praised Scoot Henderson with the no. 3 pick.
Here’s a look at the Blazers’ roster:
Point Guards:
- Scoot Henderson
- Malcolm Brogdon
Shooting Guards:
- Anfernee Simons
- Jeenathan Williams
- Justise Winslow
- Skylar Mays
Centers:
- Deandre Ayton
- Ibou Badji
- Moses Brown
- Robert Williams
Small Forwards:
- Shaedon Sharpe
- Kevin Knox II
- Justin Minaya
- Rayan Rupert
- Matisse Thybulle
Power Forwards:
- Jerami Grant
- John Butler
- Chance Comanche
- Khris Murray
- Jabari Walker
Projected Portland Trail Blazers 2023-24 starting lineup
> Scoot Henderson
> Anfernee Simmons
> Shaedon Sharpe
> Jerami Grant/ Timelord
> Deandre AytonThe future is bright 😤 pic.twitter.com/2UJJSdDNax
— ScootMuse (@Sc00tMuse) October 1, 2023
The new roster highlights the team’s intention to put new talent into their lineup and transform themselves as a strong opponent in the league. The potential Blazer starting five are expected to be Scoot Henderson (PG), Anfernee Simons (SG), Shaedon Sharpe (SF), Jerami Grant (PF), and Deandre Ayton (C).
Scoot Henderson and Deandre Ayton might lead the Blazers’ starting five
With Scoot Henderson and Deandre Ayton at the lead, the Portland Trail Blazers are committed to making a significant impact. Despite not being viewed as title contenders this year, the upgraded roster suggests a serious improvement from their previous standings.
The presence of Henderson, even though he’s a rookie will be crucial. The experienced backcourt duo of Anfernee Simons and Malcolm Brogdon will be important in providing stability and assisting the young talent in transitioning to the NBA’s competitive environment. The strategic rotation of players like Brogdon will ensure the team can stay competitive while allowing Henderson to grow naturally.
Moreover, with players like Matisse Thybulle offering experienced defensive prowess and Kris Murray adding further depth, the team promises an intriguing blend of defense and offensive capability.
The Celtics are trading Robert Williams, Malcolm Brogdon, 2024 GSW 1st, 2029 unprotected BOS first to the Blazers, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/gx53jyH1RG
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 1, 2023
Deandre Ayton, with an average of 18.0 points and 10.0 rebounds last season, expected to improve further this season, Ayton is a key player for the team both in offense and defense. Additionally, the recent acquisition of Robert Williams from the Boston Celtics provides a solid backup option, ensuring the center position remains strong throughout the season.
The Portland Trail Blazers, with a new roster led by Henderson and Ayton will try to combine young talent with experienced players to navigate the NBA’s challenges successfully and reclaim their status in the league