NBA Early Season Contenders vs Pretenders

Portland: Pretender

For the exact reasons listed with Golden State is the exact reason the Trailblazers are a pretender: It might be too early for Portland to take it all the way.

Damian Lillard is on his way to NBA stardom, as he has ice water in his veins and is a lightning bolt on offense, however his defending is a huge concern.

What happens when Tony Parker comes to town? Or Russell Westbrook? Or Steph Curry? They have a great low post presence in Lamarcus Aldridge, but the defending and inexperience of Lillard might be their downfall.