Trail Blazers Roster 2021: A Deep Dive

Hey Trail Blazers fans! Let's take a nostalgic trip back to the 2021 roster. It was an interesting year, filled with hopes, challenges, and some unforgettable moments. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the team from that season, let's break down the roster, key players, and what made that year special.

The 2021 Roster: Who Were the Key Players?

The 2021 Trail Blazers roster was a mix of established stars, rising talents, and reliable role players, all aiming to make a deep run in the playoffs. At the forefront, of course, was Damian Lillard, the heart and soul of the team. His incredible scoring ability, clutch performances, and unwavering loyalty to Portland made him the undisputed leader. Surrounding Dame were other notable names like CJ McCollum, a dynamic scorer and Lillard's backcourt partner, forming one of the most potent offensive duos in the league.

Jusuf Nurkić, the Bosnian Beast, provided size, rebounding, and interior scoring, making him a crucial piece in the frontcourt. His presence in the paint was essential for both offense and defense. The roster also featured valuable contributors such as Robert Covington, known for his defensive prowess and three-point shooting; Norman Powell, who brought additional scoring punch after being acquired mid-season; and Carmelo Anthony, a seasoned veteran providing scoring off the bench. These players, along with others like Enes Kanter (another strong presence in the paint), Anfernee Simons (showing flashes of his future potential), and Nassir Little (an athletic wing with defensive upside), formed a team with a blend of experience and youth, all striving to compete in a tough Western Conference.

Key Strengths and Weaknesses

The 2021 Trail Blazers had several notable strengths. Offensively, the team was a powerhouse, largely thanks to the dynamic duo of Lillard and McCollum. Their ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with the contributions from players like Powell and Anthony, made them a tough matchup for any defense. Lillard's deep-range shooting and McCollum's crafty moves created constant headaches for opposing teams. Nurkić provided a reliable inside presence, and the team as a whole was proficient in three-point shooting, spacing the floor effectively. However, the Blazers also faced some significant weaknesses. Defensively, the team struggled at times, lacking the necessary size and athleticism to consistently contain top offensive teams. Rebounding was another area of concern, as they often found themselves outmatched on the boards. Despite the offensive firepower, the team's defensive shortcomings often hindered their ability to close out games and advance further in the playoffs. Depth was also a concern, as the team heavily relied on its starters, and the production from the bench could be inconsistent. Injuries to key players further exacerbated these issues, impacting the team's overall performance and chemistry.

Expectations vs. Reality

Heading into the 2021 season, expectations for the Trail Blazers were cautiously optimistic. With Damian Lillard leading the charge and a supporting cast that included CJ McCollum, Jusuf Nurkić, and new additions like Robert Covington, many believed the Blazers could make a deep playoff run. The team had shown flashes of brilliance in previous seasons, and the hope was that they could finally put it all together and contend for a championship. However, the reality turned out to be more challenging. While the Blazers did make the playoffs, they faced a tough first-round matchup against the Denver Nuggets, led by the eventual MVP, Nikola Jokić. Despite Lillard's heroic performances, including a memorable 55-point game with 12 three-pointers, the Blazers ultimately fell short, losing the series in six games. The team's defensive struggles and inability to contain Jokić proved to be their downfall. Injuries also played a role, as key players missed time throughout the season, disrupting the team's rhythm and chemistry. While the Blazers showcased their offensive firepower, they couldn't overcome their defensive deficiencies and ultimately fell short of expectations. The season served as a reminder of the challenges in the competitive Western Conference and the need for the team to address its weaknesses in order to take the next step.

Standout Moments and Games

The 2021 season had its share of standout moments and games that Trail Blazers fans will remember for years to come. One of the most memorable moments was Damian Lillard's incredible performance against the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 of the first round of the playoffs. Lillard scored 55 points, hitting 12 three-pointers, and made several clutch shots in overtime. Despite his heroics, the Blazers ultimately lost the game in double overtime, but Lillard's performance was a testament to his greatness and unwavering determination. Another standout game was a regular-season matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, where CJ McCollum exploded for 50 points, showcasing his scoring prowess and ability to take over games. The Blazers also had a thrilling victory against the Philadelphia 76ers, where they overcame a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter, led by Lillard's clutch shooting and playmaking. These moments and games provided excitement and hope for the Blazers and their fans, even though the season ultimately ended in disappointment. The individual brilliance of players like Lillard and McCollum, combined with the team's resilience in the face of adversity, made the 2021 season a memorable one, filled with moments that will be replayed and discussed for years to come.

Where Are They Now?

Since the 2021 season, the Trail Blazers roster has undergone significant changes. Damian Lillard, after years of loyalty to Portland, was eventually traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, marking the end of an era for the Blazers. CJ McCollum was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, breaking up the dynamic backcourt duo. Jusuf Nurkić was traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2023 as part of the Lillard trade, leaving a void in the Blazers' frontcourt. Robert Covington has bounced around the league, playing for the Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers before finding a role with another team. Norman Powell was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2022, adding his scoring punch to another contender. Carmelo Anthony has since retired from the NBA, capping off a Hall of Fame career. Anfernee Simons has emerged as a key player for the Blazers, taking on a larger role in the team's offense and showcasing his potential as a future star. Nassir Little was traded to the Phoenix Suns and then to the Memphis Grizzlies. The current Trail Blazers roster looks significantly different from the 2021 team, with a focus on developing young talent and building for the future. While the 2021 season didn't result in a championship, it was a memorable chapter in Trail Blazers history, featuring some of the team's most beloved players and unforgettable moments.

Final Thoughts

Looking back at the 2021 Trail Blazers roster, it's clear that the team had a unique blend of talent and potential. While they ultimately fell short of their championship aspirations, the season was filled with exciting moments and memorable performances. Damian Lillard's loyalty and brilliance were on full display, and the contributions of players like CJ McCollum, Jusuf Nurkić, and others made for an entertaining and competitive team. The 2021 season serves as a reminder of the challenges in the NBA and the importance of building a well-rounded team with both offensive firepower and defensive strength. As the Trail Blazers continue to rebuild and develop their young players, fans will always remember the 2021 team and the excitement they brought to the court. The legacy of that roster lives on, inspiring future generations of Blazers players and fans alike. Whether you were cheering them on from the Moda Center or following their journey from afar, the 2021 Trail Blazers will always hold a special place in the hearts of Portland basketball fans.