Just for Mixum: "Proof" that the Blazers don't have the worst bench in the NBA

We caused that.

Utah 11.11 ...they lost Matthews
Golden State 10.96
New Jersey 10.50 ...Outlaw starts, how good is their bench
Minnesota 10.49 ...Webster
L.A. Clippers 10.46 ...they lost Blake
Miami 10.30
New Orleans 10.14 ...they replaced Bayless with Jarrett Jack

 

It is interesting but because most of the players on the bench do not have a lot of experience, I can only expect them to improve as the season goes on. I have already seen a lot of improvement, and often I notice, it comes as the expense of a game here or there to learn. For instance the other night against Dallas, that last play of the game, many of the guys out on the floor looked like they had no idea what they were doing. A night later and a shootaround later, those tight plays at the end of the game looked much better, spacing was better, execution was better. That shows they are picking up on their mistakes, and learning from the coaches.

A lot of these guys on the bench still need to find their swagger in the nba. When they do, they will be much better.

I also think this bench unit could be hugely upgraded by making one move. Getting a backup PF that is decent. Don't get me wrong about Dante, I love how hard he works, and how he doesn't complain how he is outmanned every night at that position. But he is. I would like to get a PF 6'10"+ with some meat to fight in the key to go with this group and set screens for them, and I think it would help a ton. Joel is going to help in this area when he actually starts getting back into game shape. Right now you can tell he isn't quite right yet.