Portland Trail Blazers open 2021-22 season – Raise, Call, Fold
Jusuf Nurkic plays in 75 percent of Portland’s games
Rob Ryan
Raise. I think Jusuf Nurkic finally had enough time to fully heal from everything, and him coming into training camp in shape will only help deter new injuries.
Teresa Powe
Raise. I understand that Nurkic is injury-prone. But he worked hard this offseason working out with Dame, and I believe he’s going to be ready. Not just physically but mentally. He likes his new coach. He may not make it, but it won’t be because he didn’t try.
Chip Clark
Call. Nurkic has been working hard to get himself ready for the season. We’ve seen what Nurkic can do when he’s feeling good. My biggest fear with him is that defenses playing him will be overly physical, leading to an injury.
Chris Phillips
Fold. Death, taxes, water being wet, and Nurkic missing time are guaranteed every year. And he always misses large chunks of time.
The Blazers make the playoffs.
Rob Ryan
Raise. I Agree; though I don’t have them at contender status due to the defensive issues in the backcourt, I still think offensively they are potent enough to hover close to 50 wins and be a solid playoff team.
Teresa Powe
Raise. The Blazers will make the playoffs because they always make the playoffs. What happens next depends on how they play during the regular season. It also depends on the moves they make, if needed, by the front office.
Chip Clark
Raise. Yes, the Trail Blazers have enough to reach the playoffs. Once they get there, it’s another story. I think it’s another one and done this year.
Chris Phillips
Raise. This team has enough talent to be in the playoffs. No question. Will they? That’s up for debate, and I say they will.