The Trail Blazers are looking at big changes to their starting line-up this year as they look to unify Damian Lillard and Ja Morant while learning the new head coach Mika Norisystem. After the first day of collection, The mists of Kamara was impressed with what he saw from Lillard and Morant, Joe Freeman writes for The Oregonian (subscription required).
“They promote each other quite easily“, forward The mists of Kamara said. “They are not balls. They are willing passers-by. So they are very easy to play with. And they’re tight-knit, so they try to understand each other’s game and try to make the game better and easier for each other.”
Norrie praised several different players including Brendan CarlsonKamara, Lillard, Scoot Hendersonand Morant.
However, the good mood got in the way a little on the second day, – writes Freeman. There were too many turnovers, not enough rebounds, and not enough attention to detail for Nora’s liking.
“It’s a bit sad“, said the coach.I mean, two days later, you’re not disappointed. But what is of little concern is something that we value and think is very, very important and important. When these things slip, you just can’t consider it a good day.“
One of the positives is Morant’s play, Freeman wrote. The athletic guard played off the ball more than expected and took shots from the outside. Given that he isn’t known as a shooter, it will be interesting to see how the roles might change if and when the shot doesn’t fall as often.
While the starting lineup will likely include Marant, Lillard, Kamara, Danny Audioand Donovan KlingonNorrie said he is still open to the group and hasn’t made any decisions yet.
We have more from the Northwest Division:
- The Nuggets have struggled to maintain some of their influential roles over the years, which makes it all the more important that they continue to find more. One player who has caught the eye so far in training camp is the 22-year-old winger Cam Whitmoreaccording to Brendan Vogt of DNVR. Whitmore recently signed two-way deal with Denver. “Cam is a very good player“, Aaron Gordon said. “He is big, strong, talented. Yes, it will be a good addition. I hope it sticks.” Head coach David Adelman echoed the praise, but also provided important context for how the former first-round pick could play a role moving the league forward. “The thing about Cam is that he has to simplify himself” said Adelman. “He must drive the ball into the basket. He has to raise the defense. His athletic profile is incredible. This is the reason why this guy was voted high. There’s a long way to go and it’s hard to disrupt the rotation.”
- The second day of training camp produced some interesting results Nuggets and Adelman, DNVR Sports’ Harrison Wind notes (via Twitter). Adelman praised the “special skills” of Mr Marvin Bagley III and said he viewed him as a backup center rather than a power forward, but added that he could play in the back four as a last resort. Adelman also said the rookie forward Trevon Brazile “has a chance” to earn forward minutes and that rookie Alpha Dial is an “uncheckable” special defender. Meanwhile, the point guard Jamal Murray praised Christian Brownsaying the 25-year-old winger has improved significantly as a ball-handler.
- The ThunderThe postseason ended earlier than they expected, and the star power forward’s health was a big reason why Jalen Williams. As training camp begins, Williams is feeling good and says he’s been “completely healthy” since June. Justin Martinez writes for The Oklahoman. “I’m looking forward to camp just because I haven’t played in so long” said Williams.I’m more looking forward to just playing throughout the season.” Recruit Atega Owe is also fully healthy after a left ankle injury cut short his 2026 Summer League, but Nikola Tema and Thomas Sorber both will be limited during training camp. The topic is still recovering from back procedure he passed this summer while Sorber looks to get his first NBA game back from a torn ACL and subsequent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee.