A third star needs to rise
For the most part, the Portland Trail Blazers should be confident with what they expect from both Damian Lillard and Jerami Grant. But if the Blazers are going to be a legit threat to make the playoffs this season, they’re likely going to need a third key contributor to rise.
There are a few candidates that would fit the mold. The way they closed last season, could it be Josh Hart? In the 13 games he played in Portland, he averaged 20 points per game. He’s a player to keep an eye on if nothing else.
Anfernee Simons has broken out as a fourth-year player. Last season, he averaged 17 points and four assists per game as he inked a brand new extension this offseason.
He’ll be expected to be the primary candidate. And then there’s Jusuf Nurkic, who has been productive for the Blazers before but has struggled with injuries over the last few seasons.
If the Blazers are going to be successful, it could come down to a third star rising this season for them. Question is, will one arise?