2 Former Trail Blazers thriving, 3 struggling elsewhere to start 2023-24

Thriving Blazer No. 1: Drew Eubanks, Phoenix Suns

It’s a different story in the Valley of the Sun for Portland’s reserve center from last season. Drew Eubanks was pressed into action as Nurkic struggled with injuries, and he performed admirably in a role that was assumed to be above his talent level.

However, he’s played more – and better – in Phoenix this year.

He’s serving the same role as Nurk’s backup, playing 18.8 minutes a night, but he’s attempting more shots (5.0) and scoring more points (7.8). He’s averaging 5.0 rpg, down slightly from last year, but he’s averaging a career high in assists (2.1) and blocks (1.4).

The Oregon State product is filling a familiar energetic role with the Suns, but he’s been more productive on a better team than he was in Portland last season.