Donovan Clingan averaged 22.5 minutes as a sophomore at UConn. He averaged less than 20 minutes as a rookie with the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite this, he still expects to play at least 30 minutes a game next season. The reasoning? His improved conditioning.
"I'm in a lot better shape," Clingan said at Blazers media day. "There were times last year in runs where I would get winded. Now I can keep going. My conditioning is the biggest thing I've improved this offseason. ... My weight was affecting me getting down the court."
Conditioning was always going to be the question with Clingan reaching his potential, and he's already addressed that issue in just one year with the Blazers.
Donovan Clingan improves conditioning at perfect time for Blazers
As a rookie, Clingan had exceptional per-36 numbers, finishing sixth in rebounds (14.3) and second in blocks (3.0). Per-36 stats don't always translate for several reasons, but it does still show the impact Clingan has when he's on the court. If he's able to sustain a similar level of production with increased minutes, Clingan could have a breakout season in just his second season. And with his improved conditioning, that's now a realistic possibility.
That's perfect timing as Clingan is set to take on an increased role playing starter-level minutes following Deandre Ayton's buyout. Portland was a top ten defense towards the end of last season, and it wasn't a coincidence that Clingan took over for an injured Ayton during that stretch. He's arguably the most crucial piece in Portland becoming an elite defense, even more so than All-Defensive wing Toumani Camara.
Clingan's improved conditioning is also ideal for Portland's preferred style of play. They've repeatedly said that they've wanted to ramp up their pace of play in order to utilize their youth and athleticism, particularly in the backcourt. But Portland hasn't really been able to achieve that goal up until this point, ranking as an average team in pace and fast break points the past two seasons. Things finally seem different this time around, with fastbreak opportunities being emphasized at media day and training camp. Clingan being able to keep up with that pace of play for extended periods without compromising his quality of play will be huge for Portland's offense.
Between the unknown of Yang Hansen, Robert Williams III still not being cleared to play, and Duop Reath's regression last season, there are question marks surrounding Portland's deep center rotation. Clingan is the only surefire, reliable center they have heading into the season. Portland will need to rely on him heavily, and he's prepared to take on that increased role.