NBA Western Power Rankings Week 8: Clippers hang onto 4th
By Tom West
Dec 18, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts talks with guard Damian Lillard (0) against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Magic defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 102-94. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
13th: Portland Trail Blazers (10 points)
By Jeff Nisius
Record: 11-20
Last 10 games: 2-8
A young team with some interesting pieces, the Blazers are certainly fun to watch. Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum form an explosive backcourt and one of the best in the NBA. However, the pieces are scarce beyond them, which is the main reason for their 11-20 record despite owning a point differential of only minus-1.3.
They clearly aren’t in a position to contend for the playoffs this season, but the more general manager Neil Olshey is able to see what he has in guys like Allen Crabbe, Mason Plumlee, Meyers Leonard and Noah Vonleh, the clearer the future will become. Still, they have lost eight of their last 10 games and that seems more replicable than their point-differential.
Next: Minnesota Timberwolves