I set my DVR but it didn't record. Did they say anything about us? Did they make any interesting predictions? Did it open with a cool preview video about the upcoming season?
I just watched. They did have a video preview. Not as fun as those in past. They didn't mention Portland once. Barkley said Aldridge would struggle in SA because he won't get his touches.
I want the Blazers to have the best chance to win a title before I die (like the rest of you). But I think making the playoffs this year (outside of being an incredibly unrealistic expectation) doesn't help them achieve that goal. Barring someone on the team absolutely blowing up and becoming an absolute stud this season (in addition to Damian), they need to get a high lotto pick to receive that player. Free agents that are big name, game changing and franchise type players aren't coming here. It's unlikely they'll be able to trade for said player either. I don't think anyone on the roster currently can be the Kyrie Irvin to LeBron James (OR make Damian Lillard the Kyrie Irvin to LeBron James).
CJ will become an absolute stud this season and Vonleh will be the absolute stud you want in about 3-4 years. If we suck this year, a 19 year old isn't going to make a difference next year. The fact of the matter is we already have the talent. We don't need a FA, we don't need a high pick, we don't need a trade. I believe the roster as is can win the championship in 3-4 years if we keep everyone together.
No one ever finishes their want. Okay you want a top 3. Then what? What happens then? The X factor is as big as this current roster. Why another 19 year old learning the NBA? We have enough of those types already with high upside. Also, a top three is only separate by the 7-10 depending on the draft depth.
The Blazers are Relevant to us, their fan base.... In terms of the scope of the league this year they are not.
