Sports · Basketball · 19 hrs ago
Ja Morant makes preseason debut with the Trail Blazers alongside Damian Lillard
Ja Morant played his first preseason game with the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday.
He started in the backcourt with Damian Lillard and recorded eight points, five assists and four turnovers in 19 minutes.
Morant used his speed to create scoring chances, though some decisions led to lost possessions.
Portland plans to start Morant and Lillard when the season begins.
The pairing raises questions because both guards need the ball and have defensive limitations, but Lillard says he believes they can succeed together.
The team is also encouraged by Morant’s attitude and believes he can return to an All-Star level.
Ja Morant made his preseason debut with the Trail Blazers on Wednesday night, starting alongside Damian Lillard.
Morant scored eight points and had five assists and four turnovers in 19 minutes.
Lillard said Morant appeared happy and engaged with the team.
Coach Micah Nori plans to use Morant and Lillard as starters when the season begins.
The pairing has raised questions about whether two ball-dominant, defensively limited guards can succeed together.
- Who
- Ja Morant and Damian Lillard.
- What
- Morant made his preseason debut for the Trail Blazers, starting in the backcourt with Lillard.
- When
- Wednesday night; the date is not stated.
- Where
- Portland.
- Why
- Not stated
Critics of the pairing
Damian Lillard and the Trail Blazers
Backcourt fit
Critics of the pairing
Critics have questioned whether two ball-dominant, defensively limited guards can be effective together.
Damian Lillard and the Trail Blazers
Lillard said he believes the pairing has great potential, and the Trail Blazers believe they can make it work.
I feel like he has a lot of joy right now
I think our potential is great
Morant feuded with the coaching staff and front office in Memphis, according to Jason Quick.
Morant made his first preseason appearance with the Trail Blazers, starting alongside Lillard.
- Morant's points
- 8
- Morant's assists
- 5
- Morant's turnovers
- 4
- Morant's playing time
- 19 minutes
- Starting backcourt
- Ja Morant and Damian Lillard
Sources
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