The NBA postseason is nearly here and it’s become obvious that some teams, such as the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, and Detroit Pistons, won’t be a part of it.
But what about the Portland Trail Blazers?
What does the near future hold for Damian Lillard and his squad?
NBA writer Raj C. stated the obvious about the Blazers on Tuesday, saying, “Never say never, but the Blazers are now 7 games under .500 with 13 games left. Can likely rule them out of the playoff race.”
Never say never, but the Blazers are now 7 games under .500 with 13 games left. Can likely rule them out of the playoff race.
— Raj C. (@RajChipalu) March 15, 2023
Sure enough, the Blazers currently hold a 31-38 record, which puts them behind the New Orleans Pelicans, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers, and Dallas Mavericks in a fight for a spot in the play-in games.
If the Blazers want to somehow overcome the odds and make it into the play-in tournament and beyond, they will have to earn a strong record against teams like the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings (twice), Memphis Grizzlies, Golden State Warriors, and others.
What are the chances of that happening?
What’s more likely is that this team, which was once the best in the West, will sit out of the postseason.
If that happens, everyone will again be wondering what changes the front office will pursue to make things better.
They only have so much time with Lillard, who delivered yet another stellar, historic season.
Every season that they don’t fully capitalize on his talents is another disappointment.
Will the Blazers focus on big moves in the summer to make them more competitive or will they try the same approach again next season and hope for better results?
There are still 13 games left in the season but it’s not too early for the Blazers to start looking at next season.
NEXT: Damian Lillard Rips The Current Culture Of The NBA
