Last season, the Portland Trail Blazers finished with the worst record in the Western Conference at 21-61. They struggled to find consistency with 41 different starting lineup combinations. Portland should have an improved roster due to players returning from injuries, internal player progression, and the additions of Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan. Still, it will be challenging for them to make a playoff push in the competitive Western Conference.
Projected Blazers starting lineup
- Point guard: Scoot Henderson
- Shooting guard: Anfernee Simons
- Small forward: Deni Avdija
- Power forward: Jerami Grant
- Center: Deandre Ayton
The Blazers may not be done making moves; they appear open to moving other players this offseason as they continue accumulating assets early in their rebuild. After trading for Avdija, Portland has more than five players who could realistically start for them this season. Head coach Chauncey Billups has a few different starting lineup variations to consider, but this seems like a realistic five that has more versatility than last season, with the 6-foot-9 Avdija now in the mix.