Over the offseason, Jerami Grant mentioned that he "doesn't really expect" to come off the bench. He later clarified that he'd be fine regardless of what role the Portland Trail Blazers decide for him. Four games into the season, Grant has not only been fine in the bench role, but he's also embraced it.
Grant is averaging 22.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on 57/48/83 shooting splits. The shooting efficiency, in particular, is encouraging after Grant shot just 37.3% from the field last season, which was a key factor in this demotion.
While some may attribute Grant's bounce-back to this sixth man role, he was bound for positive regression regardless.
"I don't become a worse player because I'm coming off the bench," Grant said after his 29-point performance on opening night.
Jerami Grant deserves his starting role back
Grant and Shaedon Sharpe have seemingly done a Freaky Friday swap from last season. Sharpe is now the inefficient player who makes possessions die way too frequently. So far, Portland's high-flyer is averaging 16.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 4.3 turnovers on 31/17/100 shooting splits.
As a result of the two players trending in opposite directions to start the season, interim head coach Tiago Splitter should make the starting lineup swap. It's not an easy decision by any means. Blazers fans have been eagerly waiting to see Sharpe start over Grant, but the grass isn't always greener.
Last year, Billups' decision to bench Sharpe midseason catalyzed the Blazers' push to be in the conversation for a play-in spot. They were at their best last season with their versatile forward trio of Grant, Toumani Camara, and Deni Avdija all in the starting lineup. Defensively, their length and switchability made it a nightmare for opposing teams, resulting in a top ten defense after the new year. With Jrue Holiday and Donovan Clingan now in the starting lineup in place of Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton, that unit could take yet another step forward.
The Blazers are 2-2 to start the season and have competed against all four of the Western Conference teams they've played. They are attempting the difficult juggling act of contending for a play-in race with their veterans while emphasizing a long-term outlook with their young core. With Grant's improved play and Sharpe extended for four more years, they should promote Grant back into the starting unit, where Portland is at its best.