Can the defense be fixed?
Last season was a total defensive disaster for the Blazers as they remained one of the worst defensive units in the NBA. Their poor defensive effort has been their downfall considering the fact that they have a potentially potent offense that is capable of scoring in bunches.
The Blazers must develop and adapt a defensive identity and they finally have the personnel to do it if they can stay healthy. Last season the Blazers were 4th worst in the NBA in points allowed, 3rd worst in total 3-pointers allowed, 4th worst in opposing field goal percentage, 3rd worst in opposing 3-point percentage, and finished the season as the 3rd worst defensive rated team.
The Blazers should be able to improve these numbers going forward as they should be able to adjust accordingly by having the ability to go big or small. The roster is flexible with difference makers like Justice Winslow, Nassir Little, Keon Johnson, Josh Hart Greg Brown, and Payton. How will Billups adjust his defensive rotations?
Can the Blazers adequately protect the rim? Will they be able to get stops with the game on the line?