Portland Trail Blazers: Jake Layman’s Struggles Continue

Although the Portland Trail Blazers have rolled collectively, Jake Layman has struggled individually since the All-Star Break.

If there’s one theme that gets echoed throughout NBA writing and podcasting, it’s that “progression isn’t linear.” Perhaps nobody embodies this sentiment better than the Portland Trail Blazers’ Jake Layman.

Before the All-Star Break, the Turtle secured a spot in the rotation through his three-point shooting (.374), backdoor alleyoop jams, and engaged defense. Playing just over 300 minutes in his first two seasons prior, he was on his way to well over 1000 in what many considered his breakout year. He was a switchy, energetic wing who could space the floor and attack opponents with his leaping ability.

Since February 13, Layman has become a quieter part of the lineup. Even with CJ McCollum nursing a knee strain, the Maryland product has been unable to capitalize on his starting opportunities.

The most obvious reason for this is his shooting slump from deep. Of his 37 attempts post-All-Star, he has hit only seven. In 10 of the Blazers last 15 games, Layman did not hit a three.

Following a 3-for-6 performance against the Dallas Mavericks on March 20, the Oregonian’s Joe Freeman wrote a story on how Layman’s stroke had returned. The excitement was likely premature. Framing it with the slump officially behind him, Layman said:

"“It definitely wasn’t easy. I had to keep my confidence up, keep myself motivated. My teammates helped me out, telling me to keep shooting, supporting me. It’s nice to hopefully have it behind me.”"

Although Layman was optimistic and grateful for his teammate’s support, it’s clear he wasn’t ready to declare himself back to being an above-average three-point shooter. His 0-for-1 performance in 13 minutes against the Detroit Pistons next game certainly didn’t back up Freeman’s story, at least.

Layman may still be re-finding his rhythm, and he will need to find it fast.

As the year has gone on, the three-point shot has become a more important piece to Layman’s arsenal – especially as teams have gotten smart to his backdoor cuts. Layman told Freeman:

"“Whenever I come off a screen, I always hear them yelling, ‘Lob! Lob! Lob!’ Teams are scouting it a little more.”"

Less often can Jake get going with a high-flying dunk. Now, he must become comfortable coming right onto the floor and drilling long-range shots. If teams are forced to stick more closely to him due to his shooting, he will have more opportunities to beat them for chances at the rim. But until then, he will continue being dared from deep.

If progression was linear, Layman would be making yet another case for himself in the starting lineup with McCollum’s absence. His solid three-point stroke would be making defenders pay. He’d still be attacking the basket.

Unfortunately, everyone’s favorite Turtle has had a rough few weeks. He continues to give solid effort defensively and on the glass, but he is not impacting the game in the same way he was earlier. Before, the team looked looser with him as a starter. Now, it’s hard not to cross your fingers and toes every time he chucks up a shot.

With 10 games left, there’s enough time for Layman to get back on his feet. However, if he cannot get the three-ball falling soon, he may be ousted from the team’s playoff rotation.