NBA: Ranking every team’s starting backcourt heading into 2018-19

Golden State Warriors Stephen Curry (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors Stephen Curry (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
29 of 31

3. Damian Lillard, C.J. McCollum – Portland Trail Blazers

In terms of explosive backcourts, Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum are as good as they come in the NBA. Even though they aren’t ranked No. 1 on this list, nearly every team would take this backcourt duo right now if presented with the opportunity.

The Portland Trail Blazers had the best regular season in three years this past season, securing the third seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Even though they were swept by the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the playoffs, it’s something that they can build on.

A big reason why they won 49 games last season was because Lillard and McCollum. The key, this season, will be taking their corporate games to the next level. Individually, they’re as good as you want an offensive threat. Together, they still have some work to do.