GAME THREAD: RAPTORS @ BLAZERS - FEB. 1st, 2014, SATURDAY, 7:00 PM, CSNNW

My favorite player I designated before the season! Shades of Petteri Koponen! Don't make me cry!

 

Whew!

 

Notice they started the came off with Nic on Lowry. I've often wondered if Stotts was ever going to make that a full time move. It seems when the Blazers want to "up" their defense, they put nic on the PG. So why not just do that all the time?

And Watson...he must be a shade of his former self, because the Blazers seem very hesitant to use him.

 

I've been wondering the same thing. I thought Watson would be getting at least some minutes this season during meaningful junctures of a game.

 

There's simply no time for him. Not unless you cut back Mo's minutes (which I'm okay with.)

 

He did. OTOH: He shot 8-22. I don't know how many jump shots he missed in the third and fourth quarters, but it was a lot, especially late. Just like it seems like Dame has stopped making threes, it seems like Aldridge has been shooting like crap.

The good news is: 11-14 from the free throw line. Free throws = Good. That typically shows he must have been taking the ball to the basket (I couldn't see, only listen). But those turn around fade-aways: pretty when they go in, not so helpful when you miss five in a row, in nearly consecutive possessions.

Of course the other good news is his rebounds. Part of me wonders if he noticed all the hype Love gets for garbage rebounds, and Shaq (and most fans) only care about stats. Whatever the reason, a 15 rebound night almost seems average lately.

 

Let's say someone like, oh I don't know, Carmelo wanted to walk on with the Blazers and win a ring (unlikely, but hypothetically), I'd be happy with Nico at SG. And Watson: yeah, I am surprised he never plays. I think we need PG defense and a steadier playmaker more than we need Mo's offense.

 

He makes so much. It would be hard to swing that deal. I've thought about it though. Adding Melo with Dame and LA would be interesting.

 

The thought has also crossed my mind, but I find it hard to believe. He looked fine last year and in the very limited minutes this year he looks to still be quick enough to harass other PG's.

I just think Terry has it in is mind what the rotation should be for them to win. And is reluctant to cut Mo's minutes in fear it would have a negative effect. Maybe it will work itself out, but I see no reason for trading for a defensive minded PG right now. Because he wouldn't play either.

 

Yeah, no way Anthony gives up that much cheddar, if even for one year, to be under paid and playing in Portland.

 

Dame was what 1-4 from 3? I hope his stroke comes back.

 

I don't think another 1 on 1 scorer would help us much. This team could really use an upgrade at backup PG. Get a PG that would play better with Damian.

Some potential targets next year: Shaun Livingston, Ramon Sessions, Darren Collison, Ridnour, Hinrich, Maynor.

 

I could see Melo going to the Clips or Rockets

 

15 rebounds almost seems suck when he had 11 in the first quarter.

 

Wow. Four rebounds in three quarters? That's epically bad.