The Portland Trail Blazers went three and three in the first calendar month of the season. Which players stock rose in October, thus putting their hand up for more minutes?
After a mixed start to the season for the Portland Trail Blazers, they enter November with some key squad members having started the season strong. These three players have put their hand up for more minutes with some great play to start the season.
Anfernee Simons
8.8 points / 1.3 rebounds / 0.7 steals
53% from the field / 42% from three
The second year combo guard should be near the top of everyone’s break out list this year. After only playing 20 games last year, mainly comprising garbage time minutes, he has been a regular part of the rotation this year. HIs huge shot in the closing seconds of the loss to the 76ers is testament to the fact he doesn’t shy away from the big moments. His versatility this season has been important for a team that has struggled with injuries. He has been adept in spot up situations with the starters while happily running the offense in the second unit also. At 20 years of age he may have been thrust into heavy minutes earlier than expected, but he hasn’t shied away from the spotlight. He will get to play significant minutes with the injuries to Rodney Hood and Zach Collins, but he has deserved these regardless. Look to him to show more of his skill set now he has the opportunity.
Skal Labissiere
7.3 points / 3.8 rebounds / 0.8 blocks
66% from the field
Labissiere has made the most of his limited opportunities so far this season. Though his stat line of seven and three may not impress at first look, this is impressive production considering he has only played 12 minutes a night. Most of his per 36 minute splits are career highs. He has played with great energy off the bench, either protecting the paint or rim running. His rebounding has been key with the injuries to front court partners Hassan Whiteside and Zach Collins. Labissiere is likely to play more of a role with these injuries and as this is the last year of his rookie deal he can go a long way towards securing his next contract.
Rodney Hood
14.3 points / 3.8 rebounds / 1.2 steals / 07 blocks
53.4% from the field / 51.9% from three
Sixth year wing Hood looks like he is getting back to career best form. His shot from both inside and out is looking great, and he is using his big frame to overwhelm opponents on both ends. With the injuries to the front court, Hood has played almost half of his minutes at the four this season. When the Blazers go small Hood has played great defense, flashing some rim protection in help situations. He has been more aggressive as the season has gone on and Coach Terry Stotts has run more plays for him this year. His three ball has been a massive asset for a team that struggles for offense when there are injuries. Hood was injured in the loss to the 76ers yesterday but thankfully it wasnt serious. After a great start to the season, he is now locked in as the third option on this team.
These three players could be a part of the Blazers core for the future, the rest of the season they will have the opportunity to showcase their early season growth.