Blazers offseason recap and early season preview: Lillard is back but questions remain
With noise outside the hardwood growing in Portland, how will the Blazers respond? We're looking at the offseason and previewing the 2026-27 season.
The Portland Blazers are looking to put a tumultuous offseason behind them and make a statement on the court. With Damian Lillard back in the fold, the team has a talented leader at the helm, but questions still linger about the supporting cast. The front office made some moves to bolster the roster, but it's unclear if they did enough to address the team's defensive woes and lack of depth.
The Blazers' offseason was marked by more drama off the court, with whispers of Lillard's discontent and trade rumors swirling. While Lillard's return provides some stability, it's clear that the team needs to perform well to quiet the noise and show that they're committed to building a winning culture. With a competitive Northwest Division, Portland will need to come out strong to keep pace with the likes of Denver, Minnesota, and Oklahoma City.
As the 2026-27 season tips off, all eyes will be on Lillard and the Blazers' new-look roster. Can they find a rhythm on offense and tighten up on defense? Will the team's young players take a step forward, or will they struggle to find consistency? The Blazers' schedule gets tough right out of the gate, with matchups against the Lakers, Celtics, and Bucks in the first month. If they can navigate that stretch with a respectable record, it could be a sign that they're on the right track.
Originally reported by espn.com. SportsNewsletter adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.