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The 3 Portland Trail Blazers that need to step up with CJ McCollum out

By Zach Ciavolella

Dec 11, 2020; Portland, Oregon, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield (24) drives to the basket on Portland Trail Blazers forward Robert Covington (23) during the first half of the game at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2020; Portland, Oregon, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield (24) drives to the basket on Portland Trail Blazers forward Robert Covington (23) during the first half of the game at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports /
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(Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
(Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Rodney Hood

The first Blazer who needs to step up is not too far removed from injury himself. Rodney Hood was held to only 21 games last season as he suffered a torn Achillies on December 6th, 2019.

A little over one year removed, Hood doesn’t quite look like his old self, which is understandable given the nature of his injury.

Hood has struggled in just about every aspect, from shooting to defending, and while it feels unfair to ask for more from him given the situation, the Blazers have no choice.

3.3 points while shooting 32% from the floor and 27.3% from three just won’t cut it, and there aren’t too many who have the ability to improve as Hood does.

A career 37% shooter from three, when he’s at his best, Hood is a wonderful complimentary player. When fully healthy, he is a moderately athletic 3-&-D wing, something the Blazers are still dying for.

Obviously, Hood can only control what he can control. If the injury from last year is what’s holding him back, there’s only so much he can do. If Hood is truly healthy though, or close to it, then there may be hope yet that he can turn things around.

The Blazers have been waiting for Hood to find his old form. His most recent game against the San Antonio Spurs may be a good sign towards his return.