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Trail Blazers Have A Clear Strength To Build On Heading To Increase Team's Ceiling
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- Trail Blazers Have A Clear Strength To Build On Heading To Increase Team's Ceiling
(Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images)
The Portland Trail Blazers established themselves as one of the NBA's best offensive rebounding teams last season, and they have the personnel to make that advantage even more dangerous in 2026-27.
Portland led the league with 18.4 second-chance points per game during the 2025-26 season, turning missed shots into a consistent source of offense. That production was no accident. The Blazers have a collection of big men who can attack the glass, create extra possessions and give the team opportunities to score even when the initial play breaks down.
The biggest reason for optimism is Donovan Clingan, who continued to develop into a major presence in the middle during his second NBA season. Clingan averaged 11.6 rebounds per game while leading the league in offensive rebounds, giving Portland a reliable weapon around the basket. At just 22 years old, he still has plenty of room to improve.
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Clingan's continued development could make the Blazers even more difficult to defend. His size and positioning allow him to create extra opportunities without needing plays specifically designed for him. As he becomes more comfortable with the offense and improves his finishing around the rim, those additional possessions could translate into even more points.
Robert Williams III is another player who could help Portland maintain its edge. Williams averaged seven rebounds in just 17.1 minutes per game last season, providing an immediate impact whenever he entered the lineup. His athleticism, length and ability to finish around the basket make him an ideal complement to Clingan.
Williams also gives Portland another experienced interior presence who can change the game in limited minutes. If he stays healthy and earns a larger role, the Blazers could have one of the league's most productive rebounding rotations. Keeping both centers fresh while maintaining a physical presence throughout games would be a significant advantage.
There is also potential for Yang Hansen to contribute to that identity as he continues adjusting to the NBA. The young center offers a different skill set, and his development could give Portland another option in the frontcourt. While he still has plenty to learn, adding another capable big man would provide valuable depth and help sustain the team's rebounding pressure.
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Second-chance scoring is not always the flashiest part of an offense, but it can be the difference in close games. Extra possessions create more scoring opportunities, put additional pressure on opposing defenses and help a team survive stretches when its shots are not falling.
Portland already has a proven strength to build around. With Clingan continuing to grow, Williams bringing energy off the bench and Hansen developing behind them, the Trail Blazers have a realistic path to remaining among the NBA's best offensive rebounding teams. If they can turn that dominance into even more efficient scoring, their work on the glass could become an even bigger part of their identity this season.
