Blazers back-up heart Duop Reath stays a possible integral a part of Portland’s crowded massive man rotation, writes Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian.
The 6’11” massive man is the one rostered Blazers heart who’s a proficient three-point shooter. Throughout his rookie season in 2023/24, the 28-year-old stepped up within the absence of an injured Robert Williams III, assuming main reserve duties behind starter Deandre Ayton.
Throughout 68 contests (20 begins), Reath averaged 9.1 factors on .461/.359/.742 taking pictures splits, together with 3.7 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.6 blocks and 0.5 swipes an evening. His 35.9% lengthy vary conversion fee arrived on 3.6 makes an attempt, fairly good for a man enjoying 17.9 minutes per bout.
Although Williams is damage once more, the previous All-Defensive Second Teamer will probably nonetheless leapfrog Reath when wholesome, as Portland little doubt hopes to discover a new commerce dwelling for him sooner or later. Former Connecticut standout Donovan Clingan, the Path Blazers’ prized lottery draft decide this summer time, appears more likely to earn some run, too.
“That’s the good thing about the group,” Reath mentioned of the Portland facilities’ numerous skillsets. “Everyone’s good at what they’re good at. (Clingan) is big. Nice rim protector. You’ve acquired me, who can stretch the ground a bit of bit. Everyone is simply totally different. So, coach can use no matter he wants that sport, that day.”
There’s extra out of Portland:
- Talking of Williams, the 6’9″ vet not too long ago equipped an replace on his Grade 1 left hamstring pressure, suffered final week in a follow. Fentress provides in one other piece that Williams is projected to return in two weeks, that means he ought to be accessible across the begin of the Path Blazers’ season. He suited up for simply six video games final 12 months, earlier than present process a season-ending knee surgical procedure in November. Fentress reviews that Williams is partaking in a few of the Path Blazers’ coaching camp workload, although he’s at present avoiding the more durable drills. “I really feel good,” Williams mentioned. “Figuring out a bit of bit extra. Ramping up a bit of bit extra.”
- Fourth-year Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups is bullish on the group’s depth on the guard place, too, Fentress provides in a special article. Anticipated beginning taking pictures guard Shaedon Sharpe incurred a shoulder separation and is about to overlook the following four-to-six weeks, however Billups expects backups Scoot Henderson, Dalano Banton and coaching camp signee Devonte’ Graham to step up admirably. Anfernee Simons will probably be quickly moved again to a taking pictures guard function on the squad whereas Sharpe recuperates. Fentress notes that, within the absence of Sharpe, each Banton and Graham are anticipated to start out the 12 months with Portland. Banton is on {a partially} assured deal, whereas Graham’s contract is non-guaranteed. “He’s simply such a hooper,” Billups mentioned of Banton. “He’s simply such a very good basketball participant.”
- In case you missed it, Billups remains to be wrapping his head round his impending enshrinement into the Corridor of Fame this week.
