Power Forward
Best Option: Maurice Lucas
Best Season as a Trail Blazer: 1978-79 – 20.4 PPG / 10.4 RPG / .470 FG%
The Trail Blazers offense relies on a lot of outside shooting, which often results in the need for solid rebounding. Very few people rebounded better than Lucas while in Portland. He was also a solid anchor for a defense to rely upon, which is a necessity in a line up that favors offensive talents more than defensive talents. You don’t earn the nickname “The Enforcer” by playing nice in the post.
Lucas also knew his limitations on offense, which usually involved sticking to “put-back” baskets. This would allow the offense to run as normal instead of dumping the ball into the post.
Honorable Mention: Cliff Robinson
Best Season as a Trail Blazer: 1995-96 – 21.1 PPG / 5.7 RPG / .378 3P%
Robinson would have provided the quick thinking that this offense covets. He was solid passer and shooter for a player his size (he was a “stretch four” before the term was coined). His ability to hit shots from deep would have made him highly effective in pick and pop situations. His athleticism and flexibility would have helped tremendously on defense, as he could’ve made up for spotty backcourt defense.
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