NBA: The Six Biggest Surprises From The First Half Of The 2016-17 Season

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Dec 20, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) during a game against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center. The Kings defeated the Blazers 126-121. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /

The Portland Trail Blazers Regressed

After losing LaMarcus Aldridge in free agency two seasons ago, many expected the Portland Trail Blazers to enter “rebuild mode” around Damian Lillard but ended up shocking the world by finishing 5th in the Western Conference and making the playoffs.

With the rise of C.J. McCollum last season, in addition to the signings of Allen Crabbe, Evan Turner, Myers Leonard and Festus Ezeli, the Portland Trail Blazers were expected to take the next step as a team this season.

However, right now, Portland is on the outside looking in of the West’s playoff race. In fact, the Blazers are only a half game ahead of the Sacramento Kings. Not great.

The biggest problem for the Blazers this season has been their horrific defense. Portland ranks 27th in the NBA in Defensive Rating, allowing 109.4 points per 100 possessions. Even though the Blazers might have one of the best offensive backcourts in the NBA, they’re also one of the worst on the defensive side of the ball – even though much of their defensive shortcomings fall on the lack of a rim protector.

If something doesn’t’ change quickly, and they continue to struggle on the defensive end, the Blazers might actually miss the playoffs this season.

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