Wow, what's with some of these Russ comments? Guy is the most competitive player in the NBA; 100% effort and 100% heart in what he does. Loyal. Is a great community guy. Great leader. Him and Dame are actually very, very similar in mindset and how they carry themselves. Surprised this board hates him. I love watching him play basketball. Deserves MVP.
Not me. Everyone will expect us to get swept and lose by 20 points per game. We may not win the series, but the expectations will be so low, we shouldn't have any problem exceeding them. Even if we get swept, there will be learning and teaching moments for Stotts and the players. I know Stotts gets bashed a lot around here, but I was very impressed how quickly he integrated Nurkic into the line up and immediately began taking advantage of his strengths. I've also been impressed that the team hasn't completely gone to shit with Nurk out. We just beat two teams with dominant low post centers, and last night was the best defensive game of the season, and they did it without Nurk. Creidt to the players, but also credit to Terry for pulling that off. Playing against the best forces you to elevate your game. Even if they don't win the series, the Blazers will see what it takes to beat the best. Nurk wanted the playoffs. Now we got them. Hopefully he can come back and play before the end of the series. If not, I'm sure he's still happier to be on the team that made the playoffs than the team that didn't. BNM
I want to see very minimal minutes for Dame/CJ in the last two games and a lot of Napier, Laymn, Connaughton etc.
I'd ask them if they want to play. C.J. might want some PT in game situations to get his shot back and Dame doesn't like to miss games. Maybe just set a limit on their PT at 24 minutes - enough to break a sweat without getting worn out. It's not like these guys are old. BNM
