In game 82, the Blazer reserves Anf Simons, Gary Trent, Jake Layman, Skal Labissiere, and Meyers Leonard proved that there is considerable talent that the Blazers can call on, in fact, talent that beat SAC Kings 136-131. These 5 Blazers played the entire 48 min, except for 6 min for Meyers and 7 min for Skal, all of which was played by Zach Collins who scored 13 points in the 13 min. This was a superb game for Anf, who led scoring with 37 points (13 of 21 FG, 7 of 11 3P, and 4 of 6 FT), 6 rebounds, 9 assists, and a steal. And it was a double-double for both Skal and Meyers. Skal scored 29 points (12 of 17 FG, 2 of 2 3P, and 3 of 4 FT), 15 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, and 1 block. Meyers had 19 points with 11 rebounds and the Blazer leading +/- of 11. Gary and Jake also each scored 19 points. After trailing 87-62 at halftime in this minimal defense, high scoring starting contest, the Blazers tightened up to hold SAC 2nd half scoring to 44 and profited from hot 2nd half shooting to win the game. Important discoveries were scoring by Anf, Skal, Jake, Gary, Zach, and Meyers, all of whom played with determination especially in the 4th Q. Meyers contributed important leadership as acknowledged in the interviews with Anf, who described how Meyers coached to continue chipping away at the lead, expecting scoring % to regress toward averages. This dramatic come from 28 points down win illustrates the power of determination, good team communication, the knack for winning close games with 4th Q hustle, and the talent available on the Blazer bench. Let's count on the scoring talent, defensive energy, and growing team chemistry to produce wins through the Playoffs!
Op Maybe Leonard but I was impressed with Skals game last night now we got 2 real good big men in him and Zach. You might see them playing together next year.
Yes! I would love to see Zach and Skal as Forwards and Meyers as Center with rebounding, passing, screens, communication, hustle, and teamwork like we saw in the SAC game to provide scoring, determined defense, and bench strength in the Playoffs. With this front court to run in alternation with Enes, Chief, and Mo, we have the extra energy to win over OKC, DEN, and GSW! Then onward ovrer the Eastern Conference Champion to the NBA Championship!
I was watching Rip City Drive with Travis and Chad today on TV and Travis said Stotts original game plan was to tank.
The SAC game was the game of the year for Blazer fans. For those who posted that they could not see improvements this year and did not imagine the prospect of winning in the Playoffs, this game proved a lot. Coming back from the first half deficit by determination, better defense, finding and feeding the hot hands, and showing rare composure that is more like what is expected of the starters, these reserve players showed why the Blazers can beat anyone in the NBA in the Playoffs. Let's look forward to continuing to win by including all Blazer talent in the Playoffs!
I think Skal deserves a chance at starting PF, he showed talent as a Kings player as well. We gave that chance to T-Rob and Vonleh and honestly - he looks more talented than both of them combined. I guess it won't happen this year, maybe next year if we let Aminu walk.