On RipCityRadio, Damian Lillard just said that part of his struggle on defense has been having so much responsibility offensively and how much energy he's had to expend on that end of the court. Says that with what Chauncey Billups wants to do offensively he shouldn't have to expend so much energy attacking an already set defense. Dame says he's comfortable averaging 22ppg if it helps the team win more. Having more ball movement offensively might not improve the offensive rating. But if it results in the Blazers having to rely less on Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum to create offense and saving more of those guys energy for the defensive end, then changing the offense will help the defense. It's surreal hearing the players say what a lot of people here have been saying.
He's not talking about a trade. He's saying he is confident this roster is going to take the necessary steps this year to improve by getting better defensively and such.
he also was a little bit more candid about how he felt this summer. Just wants everyone to be on the same page about winning a championship. I’m starting to feel like this whole thing is also a message to player like nurk and CJ. Get better in the off season…come ready and in shape…get a killer mentality
The 9 players that gave interviews are presumably our top 9. We may play a 9.5 or 10 man rotation based on matchup but I expect these guys to be our playoff rotation (assuming we get there): Dame CJ Norm RoCo Nurk Larry Cody Nas Ant
Nas just tried to get out of the question without taking any sort of stand. Dame essentially said we all grow up and get our vaccinations and nobody bats an eye, and didn't see this one as any different. He mentioned looking out for his loved ones as big reason for getting vaccinated. Nas seemed to say those who have strong anti-vax feeling should stand by their principles. There seems to be a big difference between the two messages.
The 4 non guarantee guys are better then Elleby but makes the team because he's already guarantee contract
This seems to confirm my impression that Billups has had more input on player personnel acquisition; Olshey talked about Billups' recruiting and selection. Never heard him say that about Stotts.
I like that he seems so relaxed and comfortable already. Also like that he doesn't express any false optimism.
yeah which is the wrong way to look at it tbh. People against vaccinations need to be educated and then bullied, period.
