The Trail Blazers are one of the youngest teams in the league, and while youth brings energy and potential, it also lacks the seasoned wisdom that only years in the league can provide. This isn’t just a Portland issue; it’s a trend across the NBA. Teams are increasingly opting for young talent, often at the expense of veteran leadership. But there’s a certain “soft magic” that comes with having experienced players on the roster—those who’ve been through the ups and downs and can offer guidance both on and off the court.
Take Chris Paul in San Antonio, for example. He’s not just one of the greatest point guards of all time; he’s a mentor, a teacher, and a obsessive strategist. His ability to read the game and impart that knowledge to younger players is invaluable. The Trail Blazers, however, don’t have a Chris Paul (there’s only one, you know?). They lack that institutional knowledge and the leadership that comes with it.
Portland’s roster is includes some promising young players, but even their most seasoned members, like Jerami Grant, aren’t the vocal leaders that can rally a team. Grant, DeAndre Ayton, and Anfernee Simons are the Blazers best and most experienced players, no doubt, but leadership isn’t just about skill—it’s about presence and the ability to inspire and guide.
When asked about the current roster’s leadership, Blazers coach Chauncey Billups acknowledged the depth youth of the team and the challenges it presents. He even said wishes he could be out there playing, offering the kind of veteran insight that only comes from years of experience. The Blazers’ current roster construction doesn’t prioritize this, and it’s a path they’ve chosen intentionally. But as the season progresses, the absence of a veteran voice might become more apparent.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the value of veteran presence, the NBA getting, and the exception to the rule, tune into today’s Locked On Blazers podcast.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Blazers Podcast:
- The impact of Chris Paul’s mentorship on young players in San Antonio and beyond
- A look at the Trail Blazers’ roster construction and its implications
- Chauncey Billups’ thoughts on leading a young team
- The league-wide trend of prioritizing youth over experience
