Blazers: 5 goals for Jake Layman to achieve in his contract season

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PORTLAND, OR – OCTOBER 13: Jake Layman #10 of the Portland Trail Blazers comes out before the preseason game against the Maccabi Haifa on October 13, 2017 at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Get in rotation

Layman’s most play time in a single game during his rookie campaign was 37 minutes – it came in the final regular season matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans. He only played double-digit minutes in eight other games.

In his second year with Portland, that peak playing time dropped to 17 minutes versus the Golden State Warriors on Dec. 11. It was his third of four double-digit minute games, also down from the prior season.

To put it simply, Layman hasn’t received the chance to show off his skill and talent at a NBA-level. He’s played in the G-League and showed out at Summer League, but Stotts has never felt comfortable asking the young wing to consistently play.

Two factors make an entrance into Portland’s rotation possible this season. For one, it’s his contract year and another disappointing 35 games won’t earn him money or a roster spot. Second, the power forward position is vacant and the Blazers need someone to step up and complement Collins.

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The most important thing Layman can bring to the table is his three-point shooting. He must capitalize on open attempts and draw defenders out to the perimeter to free up space in the paint.

On the other end of the floor, he must prove that he can hang with bigger, stronger power forwards. If they have their way inside against his wiry frame, someone like Swanigan or Leonard will replace him in a heartbeat.