oregonlive
The Portland Trail Blazers are viewed as a postseason contender, yet the extent of their potential remains a mystery. That's the word from NBA.com's yearly general manager poll, which was released Thursday morning.
According to the survey, the Blazers boast one of the league's premier leaders, one of its quickest point guards, and one of its most adaptable defenders. Additionally, they have a player that most general managers would want taking a crucial shot in a tight game.
Each year, just before the season tips off, NBA.com gathers insights from all 30 general managers on 48 questions covering the top players, coaches, teams, and offseason transactions. The perspectives of peers often provide the most revealing insights, and the Blazers' counterparts shared their views on various topics.
When predicting the NBA Finals winner, GMs identified two clear frontrunners in the Western Conference: the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Blazers received enough fourth-place votes to be projected as the seventh seed in the conference. However, their success level is also considered one of the hardest to forecast, with Portland tying the Indiana Pacers for fifth-toughest to predict at 7% of the vote. The Philadelphia 76ers topped that list with 27%.
In player-specific categories, multiple Blazers garnered votes. Ja Morant was recognized as a breakout candidate and the third-fastest player with the ball. Damian Lillard was cited as the best leader and the player GMs would want taking a game-winning shot. Toumani Camara received votes as one of the most versatile defenders, while Jrue Holiday was mentioned as a future coaching prospect after his playing days.
The survey also covered topics like MVP predictions, best offseason moves, and most improved teams. For the full results of the 25th annual GM survey, visit NBA.com.
Originally reported by oregonlive.