Portland Trail Blazers 2017: A Look Back

Hey basketball fans! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the 2017 Portland Trail Blazers. This was a team with some serious talent and a hunger to make noise in the Western Conference. We'll dive into the roster, key players, and what made this squad tick. Whether you're a die-hard Blazers fan or just curious about NBA history, get ready for a fun ride!

The 2017 Roster: A Blend of Talent and Grit

The 2017 Portland Trail Blazers roster was a mix of established stars, promising young players, and solid veterans. At the forefront were, of course, the dynamic duo of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum. These two formed one of the most explosive backcourts in the league, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. Lillard, with his clutch performances and deep-range shooting, was already establishing himself as a superstar. McCollum, with his silky smooth mid-range game and crafty moves, was the perfect complement. Surrounding them was a supporting cast that brought a variety of skills to the table.

Jusuf Nurkić, acquired mid-season, provided a much-needed boost in the frontcourt with his rebounding, scoring, and physicality. His arrival was a turning point for the team. Al-Farouq Aminu brought defensive versatility and toughness, while Evan Turner added playmaking and experience off the bench. Allen Crabbe, with his sharpshooting, was a valuable offensive weapon. Other notable players included Ed Davis, a reliable rebounder and defender, and Maurice Harkless, who provided energy and athleticism on the wing. This roster had a nice balance of offense and defense, youth and experience, making them a tough matchup for any team.

The team's success hinged on the chemistry and contributions of these players. Lillard and McCollum carried the scoring load, but the supporting cast played crucial roles in different games. Nurkić's impact was immediate, giving the Blazers a strong presence inside. Aminu's defense was essential in slowing down opposing stars. Turner's playmaking and Crabbe's shooting provided valuable offensive sparks off the bench. The Blazers were a team that relied on everyone to contribute, and when they were all clicking, they were a force to be reckoned with. They were coached by Terry Stotts, who did a great job of managing the various personalities and skill sets on the team, creating a cohesive and competitive unit. This team was exciting to watch, always capable of putting up big numbers and delivering thrilling performances.

Key Players and Their Impact

Let's zoom in a bit more on the key players who defined the 2017 Trail Blazers:

• Damian Lillard: Dame was the heart and soul of the team. His scoring prowess, leadership, and clutch performances were legendary. He was the engine that drove the Blazers' offense, and his ability to take over games was unmatched. Lillard's impact extended beyond the court, as he was also a vocal leader and a role model for his teammates. His dedication to the city of Portland and the Trail Blazers organization made him a beloved figure among fans. Lillard was not just a scorer; he was a playmaker, a defender, and a true leader. He set the tone for the team with his work ethic and his unwavering belief in himself and his teammates. In 2017, Lillard was at the peak of his powers, showcasing his incredible talent and solidifying his status as one of the NBA's elite point guards.
• C.J. McCollum: C.J. was the perfect complement to Lillard. His smooth offensive game and ability to create his own shot made him a nightmare for defenders. McCollum's mid-range mastery and scoring versatility provided a dynamic one-two punch with Lillard, making the Blazers' backcourt one of the most difficult to guard in the league. Beyond his scoring, McCollum was also a skilled playmaker and a capable defender. He was a vital part of the Blazers' success, and his chemistry with Lillard was undeniable. McCollum's dedication to improvement and his relentless work ethic made him a valuable asset to the team. He was not afraid to take big shots, and his confidence in his abilities was infectious. In 2017, McCollum continued to evolve as a player, showcasing his scoring prowess and solidifying his role as a key member of the Trail Blazers.
• Jusuf Nurkić: Nurkić's arrival transformed the Blazers' frontcourt. His size, strength, and rebounding ability gave the team a much-needed presence inside. Nurkić's scoring and passing skills also added another dimension to the Blazers' offense. He quickly became a fan favorite with his passion and intensity on the court. Nurkić's impact was immediate, and his arrival coincided with a significant improvement in the Blazers' performance. He brought a physicality and toughness that the team had been lacking, and his presence made the Blazers a more complete and balanced team. Nurkić's enthusiasm and energy were contagious, and he quickly became a vital part of the Blazers' locker room. In 2017, Nurkić's arrival was a game-changer for the Trail Blazers, and he played a crucial role in their success.

What Made This Team Special?

So, what was it about the 2017 Blazers that made them stand out? It wasn't just the individual talent, but the way they played together as a team. The chemistry between Lillard and McCollum was undeniable, and their ability to complement each other's strengths made them a formidable duo. Nurkić's arrival provided a much-needed inside presence, balancing the team's offensive attack. The supporting cast, with players like Aminu, Turner, and Crabbe, brought a variety of skills and experience to the table.

• Team Chemistry: The Blazers had a special bond both on and off the court. They genuinely enjoyed playing together, and their camaraderie was evident in their performance. They supported each other through thick and thin, and their shared goal of success created a strong sense of unity.
• Offensive Firepower: With Lillard and McCollum leading the charge, the Blazers were always capable of putting up big numbers. Their ability to score from anywhere on the court made them a difficult matchup for any team. The addition of Nurkić provided another scoring threat inside, making the Blazers' offense even more potent.
• Defensive Grit: While not known as a defensive powerhouse, the Blazers had players who were willing to do the dirty work. Aminu's defensive versatility and energy were essential in slowing down opposing stars. Ed Davis's rebounding and interior defense provided a much-needed presence inside. The Blazers' commitment to playing hard on both ends of the court was a key factor in their success.
• Coaching and Leadership: Terry Stotts did a great job of managing the various personalities and skill sets on the team. He created a system that allowed the players to thrive and maximize their potential. Lillard's leadership on and off the court set the tone for the team, and his unwavering belief in his teammates inspired them to perform at their best.

The 2017 Season: A Summary

The 2017 season saw the Blazers finish with a record of 41-41, securing the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs. While they were ultimately swept by the Golden State Warriors in the first round, the season was still considered a success. The arrival of Nurkić revitalized the team, and the continued development of Lillard and McCollum gave fans hope for the future. The 2017 season was a testament to the team's resilience and their ability to overcome adversity.

• Regular Season Performance: The Blazers' 41-41 record was a reflection of their inconsistency throughout the season. They had stretches of great play, but also struggled at times. However, their performance after the All-Star break, following the acquisition of Nurkić, was significantly improved.
• Playoff Appearance: Making the playoffs was a significant accomplishment for the Blazers, especially after a rocky start to the season. It was a testament to their perseverance and their ability to come together as a team. While they were ultimately swept by the Warriors, the experience gained in the playoffs was valuable for their future development.
• Individual Achievements: Lillard and McCollum continued to shine, solidifying their status as one of the league's top backcourts. Nurkić's arrival earned him praise for his immediate impact on the team. Aminu's defensive contributions were also recognized. The Blazers had several players who made significant contributions throughout the season.

Where Are They Now?

It's been a few years since the 2017 season, so what are some of these guys up to now? Well, Damian Lillard is still leading the charge for the Blazers, continuing to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history. C.J. McCollum was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022. Jusuf Nurkić is still with the team. Many of the other players have moved on to different teams or have retired from the NBA, but their contributions to the 2017 Blazers will always be remembered.

Final Thoughts

The 2017 Portland Trail Blazers were a fun and exciting team to watch. With a dynamic backcourt duo, a revitalized frontcourt, and a solid supporting cast, they were a force to be reckoned with. While they didn't achieve championship glory, they left a lasting impression on fans and solidified their place in Blazers history. So, here's to the 2017 Blazers – a team that embodied the spirit of Portland and gave us plenty of memorable moments! Thanks for the trip down memory lane, everyone!