Blazers Life Without Superstar Damian Lillard

Oct 7, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) dances with Trail Blazers
Oct 7, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) dances with Trail Blazers
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Apr 29, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Portland Trailblazers guard CJ McCollum (3) shoots a three point shot in the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies in game five of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Memphis defeated Portland 99-93. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 29, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Portland Trailblazers guard CJ McCollum (3) shoots. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

The Outstanding Play of CJ McCollum

With Lillard out, all eyes have turned to the 4th year guard out of Lehigh, and the 2015 NBA’s most improved player: C.J. McCollum.

He has been playing great this season. Through 36 games, McCollum is averaging 22.9 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.7 APG, and 0.9 SPG. McCollum is shooting 47.9% from the field on 17.6 attempts, 43% from the 3pt line,. However, in the last four games he’s averaging 30.3 PPG, 3 RPG, 4.5 APG, and 1.5 SPG.

In his latest performance, McCollum reminded everyone why he’s such a dynamic player. He put in a career high 43 points on a scorching 64% from the field. McCollum can only be gaining confidence with his play of late and when Lillard comes back, the deadly duo could lead this team back to the playoffs. The reason? Play making, on court chemistry, and the ability to catch fire any game.