Three Takeaways
Nikola Mirotic is very valuable.
The sought-after Bulls power forward has been shut down by Chicago until they find a suitable team for him. Tonight’s game was the first of such, and it brought up an interesting question. Could Mirotic bring that value to Portland?
If he is traded to the Blazers, like many fans crave, he may be able to provide the finishing piece to this Blazers roster. It would be a stretch, especially if Portland has to sacrifice a starter, but it could be a key move for a playoff push.
Mirotic’s ability to stretch the floor could boost this already deadly offense. His defense would also be an upgrade, helping to balance out the roster.
And so is CJ McCollum.
Good thing is, whether Mirotic comes to Portland or not, the Trail Blazers are lucky to have a star in CJ McCollum.
One of the keys to the Golden State Warriors being so dominant is their fire power at shooting guard. Klay Thompson plays very well alongside his backcourt partner, as does McCollum. But, Thompson has shown his ability to take over games more often than McCollum.
That changed tonight. McCollum eased into a 28-point first quarter, the most by any player in the NBA this season. It’s also a team record. But it’s still nine points less than the NBA record for most in a quarter. That 37-point outing belongs to Thompson. McCollum was able to score 18 points in the third, equally impressive.
If CJ McCollum doesn't return to the game, he'd join Klay Thompson as the second player in the @bball_ref database (since 1983-84) to reach 50 points in less than 30 minutes: https://t.co/g0bF18Zt4G
— Kevin Pelton (@kpelton) February 1, 2018
I’m not comparing the two. But, McCollum taking over that role for Portland is very important to their next level success. Trading him away, as many people may suggest, would not be a smart move. McCollum showed his once-in-a-generation talent tonight, and the Blazers couldn’t be happier about it.
The Trail Blazers may not even need to make a trade.
When certain teams flow and gels together like Portland did tonight, it’s a special occurrence. Again, rumors are swirling around players being trading to and from Portland. From McCollum to Mirotic, to DeAndre Jordan and Nurkić, fans and media members seem to want a shake up in the Rose City.
Why, though? The momentum this team has, how good they have looked on tape, all attest to their massive improvement. Portland’s growth under head coach Terry Stotts is severely underrated. The chemistry and rhythm, as well as hustle and grind on defense, make the Blazers legit.
Next: Portland Trail Blazers recall Wade Baldwin IV from G League
General manager Neil Olshey may not have to make any sort of move before February 8. The trade deadline might just be another day in Portland.
Sticking to the current team is the best idea in my eyes. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.