Bench Crew
Arvydas Sabonis
Portland Tenure
- 1995-2001, 2002-03
- 12-7-2 on 50-33-79
Peak PDX Season
1998: 16-10-3 on 49-26-80
Portland fans were unfortunate that “Sabas” did not arrive in the NBA during his prime. How good was he you ask?
Drexler said if he arrived in ’86 when he was drafted, the Blazers “would have had four, five or six titles. Guaranteed. He was that good.”
David Robinson also mentioned Sabonis was the greatest player he’s ever played against. I know. It only adds to the what-ifs in Blazers history.
When he did arrive in the NBA, he was over 30 and had lingering lower-body issues. But, he was still very effective.
He played an integral role in the late 90s, early 2000s teams.
He could shoot, had unreal vision and boasted that ever-reliable sweeping hook. Even a post-prime Sabas was productive, and having that luxury off the bench for this all-time team is even better.
Maurice Lucas
Portland Tenure
- 1976-1980, 1987-88
- 16-9-3 on 46 field goal percent and 76 free throw percent
Peak PDX Season
1977: 20-11-3 on 47 field goal percent and 77 free throw percent
The Enforcer was what fans called Maurice Lucas during his stint in PDX. And the nickname speaks for itself.
Lucas was a force of nature inside and was an absolute “garbage man.” He would scrap, fight and brawl his way inside while mixing it up with his mid-range jumper.
The big man served as the perfect complement to the wizardry of Walton.
He may not start next to his frontcourt partner on this team, but he comes off the bench as the “tough guy” for this one (exhibit A).