3 observations from Portland Trail Blazers signing Carmelo Anthony
2. Trail Blazers in need of a jolt following a slow start
The Portland Trail Blazers began the season on a somewhat positive note. With a 102-99 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Oct. 30, they improved to 3-2.
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Since that time, though, it has been a completely different story. They followed up that victory against OKC with four consecutive losses to the Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, LA Clippers and the Brooklyn Nets.
Overall, they have recorded losses in six of their last seven outings, dropping them to an unexpected 4-8 mark. This record represents the third-worst record in a very competitive Western Conference.
To add to the Blazers’ woes, they are also having issues with getting solid production at the forward positions. Both Zach Collins and Pau Gasol are nursing injuries. Mario Hezonja has a conversion rate of 32 percent overall and from 3-point territory.
Nassir Little is shooting 31.6 percent from the floor and an abysmal 16.7 percent from long range. Furthermore, Anthony Tolliver is shooting right around 24 percent overall and from downtown. As if that isn’t bad enough, according to ESPN, the Blazers’ forwards are ranked 27th in points per game, 28th in assists and dead last in field-goal percentage.
Simply put, even after more than a year away from the basketball court, Anthony should be able to give the Blazers a much-needed boost, whether he starts or comes off the bench.