Trail Daddy: A Trail Blazers Podcast Hosted by Dave Deckard

On this episode of the WHAT Podcast, Kendyl recounts her adventures in Los Angeles during NBA All Star Weekend. Then she and Tara discuss the Western Conference playoff race down the stretch and whether Damian Lillard should be in the MVP conversation (of course he should!) This week's guests are Rekaya Gibson and Angela Spears, co-hosts of Black Girls Talk Sports Podcast. They talked about how the podcast got started and why they chose to make it centered on black women, then we hit on a variety of topics like the Winter Olympics, the NBA All Star Game, female basketball coaches in college and the NBA, and athletes using their platform to address social justice. 1:00 Report from LA: Kendyl talks about her All Star Break adventures. Charles Barkley on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Inside the NBA Roadshow, trying to catch Damian Lillard and DeMar DeRozen at the Spalding event, Bleacher Report event with a “celebrity” game. (6:50) Thoughts on who the All Star Weekend is really for. 9:45 Thoughts on the All Star Game--did the new system work? Was it a better game than it has been in recent years? Steph looked like he didn’t care about winning. (9:45) Damian Lillard should have been in at the end. 14:40 The Dunk contest. What are the rules? How do they keep score? Is it really a good idea to have celebrity judges? 18:30 Celebrity game. Note to the organizers: WNBA Players are basketball players, not “celebrities”. We’ve seen enough Paul Pierce this year, thanks. 20:10 Sprint to the finish. Tough competition in the Northwest Division. Damian Lillard deserves to be in the MVP conversation. MVP should be the player who makes the most difference to their team. 28:50 Black Girls Talk Sports Podcast co-hosts Rekaya Gibson and Angela Spears. Growing up in the Midwest and Louisville where sports was a big deal and coming from sports-loving families. 34:10 What does sports mean to you? Sports has taken on a new meaning since doing the podcast. It’s shared entertainment that we can all talk about, and can bring us together. 41:10 Some of the favorite topics they have covered on Black Girls Talk Sports include the Nigerian women's bobsled team, Black Girls Surf, when will women coach in the NBA, and should college athletes get paid? 48:00 Most interesting topics in the NBA this season: Player movement (trades), LeBron James and the Cavaliers, are they still contenders? 53:00 Winter Olympic sports will kill you but they sure are fun to watch. 56:20 NBA All Star game is not fun to watch because they players don’t play with passion. 57:00 How the NBA All Star game and the Olympics are different right now. 59:05 Athletes using their platforms to address social justice issues. 1:01:05 Women who inspire: Nancy Leiberman, assistant coach for Sacramento, who is breaking barriers and who never let lack of encouragement hold her back. Cheryl Miller has been an inspiring role model and an incredible player. Find our fantastic guests on Blackgirlstalksports.com, @RekayaGibson and @CoachSpears Follow Blazer’s Edge on Twitter @blazersedge, WHAT Pod @HoopsAndTalks, Tara @tcbbiggs, and Kendyl @kendylbennett16. Questions? Email us: [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's Blazer's Edge podcast, Tara and Danny take a look at Portland's last 2 victories, break down Damian Lillard's last 6 games and month of February, discuss where Lillard ranks in today's top flight players, Jusuf Nurkic's steady contributions, how to keep Nurkic motivated each night, the Northwest Division being wide open & more! Intro Tara's trip to Utah Thoughts on the Jazz Reviewing the Portland v Utah game Maurice Harkless revival tour Damian Lillard is awesome Seriously, Damian Lillard is REALLY good Damian Lillard's past 5 games are the best series of games from a Blazer... ever What's changed that has allowed Lillard to go off? Is Damian Lillard a Top 10 player right now? The difference between a star and a superstar player Appreciating how good Dame is right now Dictating the pace/style of the game Where mental aptitude reaches physical maturity- peak Lillard The glory of a point guard put-back dunk Why doesn't Dame get triple doubles Always bring your laptop to dinner Jusuf Nurkic feeding off of Dame's shine The art of moving picks Nurkic vs Rudy Gobert Nurkic's shooting woes falling by the wayside Tara's theory for Nurkic motivation Appreciating Nurkic, flaws and all Players in the Northwest Division dropping like flies Jimmy Butler out for the Timberwolves Advancing in the playoffs with an asterisk Blazer's Edge Night is here! Looking ahead to the Timberwolves and Thunder Closing comments Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's Blazer's Edge podcast Tara and Dan discuss the Trail Blazers v. Warriors game on Valentine's Day then ask a series of questions they've been kicking around this week: Will the Blazers regret passing on Donovan Mitchell, which Blazers would be the best Winter Olympians, the value of CJ McCollum and more! Intro Winter Olympic Hunger Games Blazers most likely to be Winter Olympians Ed Davis in a bobsled Meyers Leonard as a curling champion Ice skating analytics Revisiting the Warriors v Blazers Reminder, Damian Lillard is REALLY good Dame for Player of the Month Was that game more about the Warriors or the Blazers Looking at the All Star game Dennis Smith Jr was robbed Donovan Mitchell is a complete monster Utah Jazz after the break The Jazz mirror the Blazers from a few years ago Will the Blazers regret passing on Mitchell Drafting Mitchell, trading CJ and rebuilding on the fly Would Mitchell have had the opportunity to blossom here Who does he remind you of Early returns on Collins v Mitchell The true value of CJ McCollum- we're not talking about trading him The consistent near all-star level of play McCollum and "Shake Rating" The clutch gene- does McCollum have it Coulda, woulda, shoulda... again Will the Blazers make the playoffs Evaluating the stretch run Closing thoughts Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Tara and Kendyl for the latest Women’s Hoops and Talks (W.H.A.T.) podcast. They start off by talking about Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum who each scored 50 points in less than 30 minutes within 10 days of each other. Kendyl has been in Los Angeles and had an inside look at Laker Nation’s reaction to a wild trade deadline. Then they talk to Ashley Williams, freelance sports reporter whose work has been featured on USA Today High School Sports as well as on SB Nation sites Blazer’s Edge and Swish Appeal. Ashley has covered the Nike Hoop Summit and Les Schwab Invitational Tournament for the last several years and has had the opportunity to talk to many players who went on to the NBA. She talks about what is unique about talking to these young men before they make it to the big time. 0:34 Damain Lillard and C.J. McCollum both score 50 points in less than 30 minutes within 10 days of each other. They are the first to do that within 10 days of each other since Larry Bird and Kevin McHale in 1984-85. 2:43 Top back courts in the league7:10 Trade deadline roundup8:08 Kendyl who is in Los Angeles talks about the reaction among Laker fans to the Cavs and Lakers trade, and Laker fans plan B (12:05) just in case they don’t entice LeBron and Paul George this off season. 16:15 Ashley Williams talks about the Les Schwab Invitational Tournament and the Nike Hoops Summit. She has spoken with many current NBA players before they were in the league including Jaylen Brown, Ben Simmons and DeAaron Fox.21:15 What is special about talking to high school players? Jaylen Brown playing for his teammates. Skal Labissiere growing up and giving back. 27:20 Talking to Damian Lillard about Black History Month. 32:30 A woman in basketball who inspires Ashley: Skylar Diggins. Get Social Follow Blazer’s Edge on Twitter @blazersedge, WHAT Pod @HoopsAndTalks, Tara @tcbbiggs, and Kendyl @kendylbennett16. Join the Women’s Hops And Talks Facebook group to talk about Trail Blazers with others who identify as women who love basketball. Music used in the episode: "Happy Alley" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast Dan and Tara take a look at what it would cost the Trail Blazers to acquire DeAndre Jordan, how could/would the Blazers utilize him, does it make sense to go in now, reviewing the last week of play, CJ McCollum's 50 point game, the City jerseys debut, what having a stable of 6'7" wings can do for a team and more! - Intro -January review - Rip City plaid, reviews - Early week good, end of week never happened - Damian Lillard vs the Raptors - Why do the Blazers fall short vs Toronto - What can you take from that game - Which would you rather have, more offense or more defense - Good Harkless makes an appearance - When all else is equal, size matters - Where there's smoke, there's... smoke - Recalling Wade Baldin and Caleb Swanigan, does it matter - What's the reality for an NBA player that's on the block - Trading for DeAndre Jordan - What would a deal for Jordan look like - Is it worth it for the Blazers to sacrifice Nurkic's potential for Jordan - Understanding the fine print in a trade - Opt in, opt out, Bird Rights and more - Who would the Clippers be targeting in this deal - Adding a 3rd team to the mix, who and what - Most likely candidates to be shipped out - Is Pat Connaughton safe - Getting used to a player that dunks, the best kind of transition period - Is it worth it for Portland to go in now - Does Neil Olshey's connection to the Clippers matter - Putting on tin foil hats - Ticking all of the boxes for a Neil Olshey acquisition - Projections for the deadline - Closing comments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast Tara and Dan take a look at the resurgent Blazers offense, what led to it, is it sustainable, the arrival of MVP Damian Lillard, Ed Davis rises from last year's ashes, calling the Blazers "The Zers" and more! Intro Routine vs. Rest Food in Dallas Ranking Texas NBA arenas Having rest before the All Star break is a good thing, right? Things looking more natural and fun Opening the playbook with chemistry How do you build familiarity on the floor? Evaluating Portland's offense Tara hates Bunnies Why is the offense playing better? Can the offense be sustained? MVP level Damian Lillard CJ McCollum rounding into form The rotations are getting locked down Dame & CJ are still the key- when they're rolling the team is rolling Role players ... playing roles Yes, Ed Davis is really good and really valuable Ed Davis, let me shower you with praise Listener questions- everything ball movement Understanding relevant and purposeful ball movement It's not about how many passes you make, it's how many of the right passes Natural adjustments + better passing and shot making= good offense Elevator! Stop calling the Portland Trail Blazers the 'Zers Addressing the NBAPA v NBA Referees Tear it all down Relationship building vs scorched Earth Shout out Blazer's Edge Night selling out! Blazers Outsiders Debut Shout outs/credits Blazers Outsiders DebutShout outs to DeMarcus Cousins and Andre Roberson Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer’s Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast, Corbin Smith of Willamette Week/Vice Sports fame joins the show with Tara and Danny to expand on his most recent project; revisiting the Jail Blazers era and how it was covered by local media, hating LaMarcus Aldridge (still), will Lillard make the All-Star team, the Blazer's most improved player award, Evan Turner's worth, tribute videos and more! - Looking back at the Jail Blazers - Reviewing how the era was looked at - Portland media members review their thoughts - The judgment game - rating takes and answers - Will Lillard make the all-star team - Most likely to be traded from "Olshey's guys" - Hawks player you would most like in Portland (Hawks fire sale) - Most improved Blazer - How much of his contract is Evan Turner earning - What's the over/under on technical fouls/ejections in the POR v DEN game - What former Blazer still in the NBA deserves a tribute video Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night to help 2000+ underprivileged kids see the Blazers play the Sacramento Kings in February! Head through this link and click on “Donate Tickets”. Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance. REMINDER: If you buy a pair of these socks, a ticket gets donated automatically! Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer’s Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tara and Kendyl share their own All Star picks and reflect on the players who were selected. Then they welcome Jannelle Moore, who writes about the Golden State Warriors for Blue Man Hoops and Golden State of Mind. You can find her weekly column, Towns Finest, on Sunday’s at Blue Man Hoop. We talked to her about how the Warriors have developed over several years and what stars Like Steph and Draymond had to improve individually before they became a super team. If you like what you heard you can find more episodes of the WHAT podcast in the Blazer’s Edge podcast feed. Head over to Stitcher, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts and subscribe to Blazer’s Edge, you’ll get all the weekly Blazer’s Edge podcasts plus every other week we’ll bring you another episode of Women’s Hoops And Talks and you’ll get to know even more women who are doing awesome things in basketball. Follow Blazer’s Edge on Twitter @blazersedge, WHAT Pod @HoopsAndTalks, Tara @tcbbiggs, and Kendyl @kendylbennett16. Jannelle can be found on Twitter @Jannelle12 or Instagram @WriterDiva. Music used in the episode: "Happy Alley" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On a special edition of the Blazer's Edge podcast- Caitlin Cooper of Indy Cornrows joins Tara and Dan to preview the match up with the Indiana Pacers AKA "Blazers East." With Nate McMillan & Kevin Pritchard running the show how have they taken the Blazers framework and built a contender, the emergence of Victor Oladipo, the growth of Myles Turner, Baby Sabonis and the twin towers and the outlook for the Pacers vs the Blazers over the next few years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Blazer’s Edge podcast,Blazer’s super fan and actor Kelly AuCoin from Showtime’s “Billions”, FX’s “The Americans” and many more projects join Tara and Dan to talk about the state of the team, ranking eras, a Blazers Mt. Rushmore, how Kelly became a fan, Pat Connaughton’s terrible movie taste, adjusting expectations, the other Dame in his life and more! IntroRamblin’ RodPat Connaughton reveals he’s not perfectKelly outlines how he became a fanExpectations after an early titleBill Walton and a copy of Sports IllustratedWhere do you rate Damian LillardBlazers Mt RushmoreThe pursuit of excellenceThe star named Dame in his lifeEvaluating the current state of the teamRooting interest, chemistry and finding the right fitEvolution of Al-Farouq Aminu’s gameUnderstanding Jusuf Nurkic from afarKelly endorses angry NurkEvaluating the rookies, Caleb Swanigan and Zach CollinsInspirational speeches from “Wags” for CollinsTaking a look at what Portland could do in the coming weeksHas Napier played his way out of PortlandKelly’s TV spots for the Blazers during the Playoffs Jack Nicholson, Ty Burrell and Kelly AuCoin Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night to help 2000+ underprivileged kids see the Blazers play the Sacramento Kings in February! Head through this link and click on “Donate Tickets”. Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance. REMINDER: If you buy a pair of these socks, a ticket gets donated automatically! Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer’s Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Blazer’s Edge podcast Tara Bowen-Biggs and Dan Marang run down the Blazers recent run of play, discuss the emergence of Shabazz Napier and Pat Connaughton, Damian Lillard’s absence, Nikola Mirotic and DeAndre Jordan on the trade block, and why NBA players shouldn’t be friends on the court. That and more on this week’s Blazer’s Edge podcast! Intro Things to build on over the past week Reviewing the past week Can we count on players outside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum Evan Turner fitting in Pat Connaughton and Maurice Harkless getting to the basket Getting the most out the other guys Nurkic fever making a return Equal opportunity offense The Blazer's defense is for real- that's fun Why won't Nurkic dunk on everyone Understanding how good Nurkic's footwork and why he's so frustrating Lillard and teammates rise for the Stotts banner Style points are back- why the Hawks game was more than just a regular win Trade Deadline- Nikola Mirotic What will Mirotic cost Portland Should the Blazers entertain offers for Collins if it means getting out of Turner's contract Trade Deadline- DeAndre Jordan Would Jordan fit in Portland What would Portland give up for him Who's a better fit for Portland at center- DAJ or Nurkic Assessing CJ McCollum's value in the league today The Moda Center is alive Why can't everyone be friends Get off my lawn- I want villains, heels, and storylines not banana boats Pettiness drives the best rivalries in the league not niceties The Trail Blazers and tribute videos- who could they have one for Will Barton deserves a tribute video Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night to help 2000+ underprivileged kids see the Blazers play the Sacramento Kings in February! Head through this link and click on “Donate Tickets”. Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance. REMINDER: If you buy a pair of these socks, a ticket gets donated automatically! Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some people say the NBA season doesn’t really start until Christmas. Well, we disagree. On this episode of the WHAT Pod, Tara and Kendyl talk about all the fun, exciting, and unexpected things that happened the first 10 weeks of the NBA season. We can’t imagine waiting until Christmas to watch the NBA, but just in case YOU did, we’ve picked out all our favorite highlights around the Association. 2:00 Big game, big injury: Cavs vs Celtics and Gordon Hayward goes down, impressive performances by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. 5:00 Injury bug bites early7:23 Eric Bledsoe’s Tweet heard around the league10:50 Early Coach firings, Earl Watson and David Fizdale12:58 Surprisingly fast starts and what we think about the East vs West so far15:43 Raptors on the rise (Dwayne Casey on The Lowe Post) 19:30 Outstanding rookies and LeBron’s active interest in the young players24:28 Will LeBron be NBA Commissioner some day?26:40 Rundown of some statistical highlights (via Basketball Reference) and Is this LeBron’s best year? 30:20 How stars are fitting in on their new teams. 32:52 How tough is the Northwest Division37:20 Players who are surprises: Victor Oladipo 40:09 Referee drama and intrigue ( Meeting held to discuss tensions between refs, players)50:34 What we are hoping for the Blazer’s for the rest of the year. 57:00 What is the trade deadline going to be like?59:00 Blazers Edge night Get Social Follow Blazer’s Edge on Twitter @blazersedge, WHAT Pod @HoopsAndTalks, Tara @tcbbiggs, and Kendyl @kendylbennett16. Women’s Hops And Talks (W.H.A.T.) Join the Women’s Hops And Talks Facebook group to talk about Trail Blazers with others who identify as women who love basketball. Join other #BlazersWHAT fans to watch a game together once a month. Next watch party is January 14 at McMenamins on Broadway when the Trail Blazers take on the Minnesota Timberwolves. References Stats unless otherwise noted are from Basketball Reference Music used in the episode: "Happy Alley" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast Tara Bowen-Biggs and Dan Marang break down the miraculous comeback versus the Philadelphia 76ers and the absolute dumpster fire that was the match up with the league-worst Atlanta Hawks - what happened, what went right and/or wrong, what does it mean going forward, breaking Jusuf Nurkic's nose before every game, the rise of Shabazz Napier and whether or not Coach Stotts is to blame for the up and down play. Intro Damian Lillard taking every game off he needs to get healthy Outlining the comeback vs the 76ers Napier, Nurkic, McCollum and a free throw bonanza Mad Nurkic vs Sad Nurkic Dan's rant on officiating, what's wrong with it and how to fix it going forward Blazers take another team lightly and pick up their worst loss of the year Where does the blame fall? Coach, player(s), GM, ownership, etc What has Coach Stotts done for this team, and how good is he as a coach Getting the most out of players Why the issues with the team don't fall at Stotts' feet Why coaches don't play rookies leaguewide Ed Davis continues to shine Pairing Davis with Zach Collins on and off the floor Where does Portland's bench rank in the league Pat Connaughton and Shabazz Napier knowing their role and shining Expectation vs reality What do the Blazers do at the trade deadline Breaking down the upcoming schedule What happens to Portland between now and the trade deadline New Years resolutions for Blazer players Help us send 2000+ kids to see the Blazers play the Sacramento Kings this February! To Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night, 2018 Head to this URL: http://rosequarter.com/blazersedge/ Click on “Donate Tickets” Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page after you’ve selected your tickets. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance with the process or cannot donate online. Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a Christmas miracle! On this week's episode James Holas AKA @snottiedrippen and Chris Axmann @AlmightyBallin, head of ABPNRadio join Tara and Dan to talk Damian Lillard's Los Angeles attire, Coach Stotts on the hot seat, Dwight Howard in Portland, Shabazz Napier as the best Blazers bench player in years, and what to make of Jusuf Nurkic's rough start. That and more on this week's Blazer's Edge podcast! Intro Damian Lillard's heat check outfit Jusuf Nurkic's impact this season What's happening with Nurkic's up and down play Tweeting and recording at the same time Is Coach Stotts on the hot seat Nurkic's offense falling off Zach Collins' impact early on James shares his true feelings on Evan Turner How much are the Blazers missing Crabbe Shouts to Pat Connaughton Trade season is upon us What deals should Portland look at Dwight Howard, DeAndre Jordan, and Marc Gasol- oh my Would Dwight Howard fit in Portland Is Portland allowed to trade with the Orlando Magic DeAndre Jordan - would he fit in Portland Christmas wishes for a perfect trade Tobias Harris, Aaron Gordon, Khris Middleton, CJ Miles, Evan Fournier Chances of the Blazers making a deal at the deadline Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast Tara and Dan try to figure out what a good win really is. Is there such a thing as a bad win? From a 4-1 road trip to a 5 game losing streak and the chance to go on another 4-1 road trip. The ups, downs and everything in between of this Blazers season has finally managed to render Dan speechless... at least for a moment. Attempting to break down the Charlotte Hornets game Reacting to Coach Stotts' rotation changes What do you think of Evan Turner being in the starting rotation Using Turner's strengths alongside CJ McCollum/Damian Lillard How good has Aminu been for the Blazers What makes a a good 3 and D player Has Aminu reached that level where he brings it on both sides Can the Blazers continue to play with fire and not get burned in the long run Initial thoughts on Zach Collins in the starting lineup How confident has he looked to you Why is Collins getting the nod over other guys We still don't know what this team's identity is Trade season is open what should fans keep in mind Golden Rules for the trade machine and real life trades Which Blazers are most likely to be available/traded this year Franchise goals and how they dictate player movement What could the Blazers expect in return trades If the Blazers are on a path right now, which way do they go Is Stotts on the hot seat Why firing a coach happens before a rebuild/retool To Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night, 2018 Head to this URL: http://rosequarter.com/blazersedge/ Click on “Donate Tickets” Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page after you’ve selected your tickets. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance with the process or cannot donate online. Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast Coach Dave DuFour is here to talk Blazer's identity, his conversion on Meyers Leonard, Portland's offensive struggles, why adults shouldn't wear jerseys, answers Team Mom's letter and more! Team Mom's letter Why adults shouldn't wear jerseys Portland vs Houston Showdown between Damian Lillard and James Harden Do the Blazers miss Allen Crabbe Should Meyers Leonard be on the floor How do the Blazers answer small ball lineups Understanding what a dribble hand off/DHO is Evan Turner and Maurice Harkless on the floor at the same time, this is a problem How do the Blazers compensate for non shooters on the floor You can't be on the floor if you're a net negative offensively The Blazers are missing wide open threes, a lot Looking at the Blazers by the numbers Where the Blazers are good, they're very good Where the Blazers are bad, they're very bad What is the Blazer's identity How do you feel about the Blazers right now Dead last in assists, can that be fixed Hot take- the Blazers are playing the odds with Dame/CJ Have you seen any good movies lately Are the Blazers giving anything that gives you hope Giving up 51 to Beal, 48 points to Harden Will this team make the playoffs and is that a good thing Out performing their contracts and the hope that died with them Where does winning rank for the Portland fan base How hard is it for Portland to hit the reset button The best thing that could happen, is a tank that doesn't happen on purpose CJ McCollum- the best pure shooter in the league 3-guard lineups and why they're valuable for Portland right now Evan Turner was supposed to be that guy in the 3-guard lineup when he was signed Why do so many players have huge nights against the Blazers Meyers Leonard has beef with half the league We discovered why Leonard doesn't play The Blazers schedule woes Will the Blazers make the playoffs Dave is a convert, Meyers need more minutes To Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night, 2018 Head to this URL: http://rosequarter.com/blazersedge/ Click on “Donate Tickets” Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page after you’ve selected your tickets. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance with the process or cannot donate online. Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast the discussion centers around something no on saw coming this year- where has all the offense gone? Tara and Dan discuss the 4-1 road trip, back to back home losses, CJ McCollum's slump, Meyers Leonard's return to the spotlight and more. Reviewing the 4-1 road trip Damian Lillard finds his jumpshot Milwaukee Bucks - why are they such a problem for the Blazers? Death by Rajon Rondo and Tony Allen jumpers...seriously Blazers looking past the Pelicans sans Anthony Davis It's gotta be the shoes right? CJ McCollum, the best midrange shooter in the league? Working Al-Farouq Aminu and Meyers Leonard into the lineup Leonard vs Boogie - the series continues! Shabazzle-Dazzle continues to shine Dame and CJ and the myth of a pure point guard Lillard ISO vs Harden ISO More lobs for Pat Connaughton please Nurkic "life comes out you fast" When the Blazers commit, their defense is for real McCollum's recent shooting slump- what is it? How can the Blazers compensate when Dame or CJ struggle? The Blazers can't count on opponents being the "Knicks" to win games Dame's resurgence to MVP form, can he make the All-Star game? Noah Vonleh taking advantage of his minutes Pat Connaughton's and Shabazz Napier's emergence and brash confidence Trusting the team to make the right play Announcements! To Donate Tickets to Blazer’s Edge Night, 2018 Head to this URL: http://rosequarter.com/blazersedge/ Click on “Donate Tickets” Use the promo code BLAZERSEDGE on the purchase page after you’ve selected your tickets. Tickets are automatically donated when you follow this process. You can also call our ticket rep, Alec Botts, at 503-963-3926 if you need assistance with the process or cannot donate online. Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Golliver from SI.com and Blazer's Edge Alumnus drops by and gives us the deep dive on everything Jusuf Nurkic after sitting with the Bosnian Beast earlier this season. From how hate mail and trade grades serve as great motivating tools for story writing, to why Jusuf Nurkic is like an actual bull. Ben breaks down the almost superhero-esque origin story of the younger Nurkic, the parallels between his early career growth and his time in Portland as a Trail Blazer and ties it together with his projections for Nurkic's growth. Along the way we discuss Nurkic's relationship with Damian Lillard, Nurkic's respect and admiration for Coach Stotts and ultimately what could the Blazers be looking at this summer when it comes to resigning Nurkic. That and more on this week's episode! What made you want to do a story about Jusuf Nurkic? What did you learn about Nurkic that you didn’t already know? What got left left on the cutting room floor? What does he think is the future of centers in the NBA? Is Nurkic ready for that? If Joel Embiid is watching Hakeem Olajuwon videos, what videos should Nurkic be watching? Player Rankings (Nurk #69, CJ #39, #17 Damian)Early returns, how are you feeling about how they are panning out? Do you still think there is that much of a gap between Dame and CJ? Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs@bengolliver Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Ep 2 of Women’s Hops And Talks (W.H.A.T.) Podcast,Tara and Kendyl talk with Associated Press reporter Anne Peterson whose beat has included the Portland Trail Blazers since 2002. We hear about her early days in the Bay Area, her first call to meet Arvydas Sabonis when she got to Portland, covering soccer and volleyball at the Olympic games and many tales of her interactions with some of the most notorious Blazers. How to write a story about Rasheed when he wouldn’t talk to the pressA special bond with Sebastian TelfairHer one regret about Ruben PattersonTrying to keep track of Zach Randolph and Damon Stoudemeir We also hear about what it was like to cover more recent Trail Blazers like Brandon Roy and Greg Oden. Follow Tara @tcbbiggs, Kendyl @kendylbennett16, Anne @AnnieMPeterson and of course @blazersedge on Twitter. Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com.Blazer’s Edge night has been announced! This year we’re going to send 2,000 kids to the Moda Center to watch the Blazers play the Kings on February 27th, and you can help! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode CBS Sports' Matt Moore (otherwise known as @HPBasketball, drops in to give us the national perspective. That's right, "The national media are coming! The national media are coming!" Matt breaks down the view from outside Portland's bubble on Terry Stotts, Neil Olshey and the current standing of the Trail Blazers, whether or not the Blazers defensive growth is both real and sustainable, what's inhibiting the offense, can the Blazers grow anymore with Lillard and McCollum and much, much more on this week's Blazer's Edge podcast! National perspective- How are Terry Stotts and Neil Olshey looked at right now? Do you think the Trail Blazers defense is for real? What has happened to the offense in its place? Age old question- can Dame/CJ lead a team beyond mediocrity Jusuf Nurkic- the good, the bad and the future The NW division looked like murder’s row heading in- has it lived up to expectations? Thoughts on the Zach Collins and Caleb Swanigan Evan Turner and his radical change Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs@HPBasketball Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode former professional basketball player and current Blazer's Edge Analyst (and resident big man) Brian Freeman joins us to on this episode where it's all about big men- specifically Jusuf Nurkic and what's transpired the past couple of games in the fourth quarter and what went wrong against the Brooklyn Nets. Brian and the crew break down team schemes, understanding what we know and don't know from a fan/media point of view, the effects of closed door meetings and more! 1:00 Introduction - Brian Freeman- former professional basketeer and resident bigman is our guest today!2:00 The Blazers identity - where is it4:00 Building the Blazers identity on both ends5:00 Breaking down the Nets game- what happened and why7:00 What's up with Nurkic and not closing out games8:30 Why hasn't Nurkic been on the floor11:00 Where did it gone wrong against the Nets14:00 That one bad play everyone is talking about, it's going to be the first thing they look at the next day17:00 Where did the Blazers go wrong in the 2nd half20:30 Playing inside and outside the scheme23:30 How much has the loss of Aminu and the introduction of Vonleh back into the lineup changed things25:30 The return of Meyers Leonard and infectious effort27:30 Is it time for a closed door meeting?30:00 How much of the up and down start is rooted in the homestand34:00 While there's cause for concern, slow down 35:00 Assessing the optics of the Nurkic situation37:30 Don't overreact or under-react39:30 Is Nurkic getting tired43:00 The player-coach relationship and rotations49:00 The next set of games before the road trip Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs@brianfreeman Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Women’s Hops And Talks, a podcast where we elevate the voices of women in basketball. Twice a month, co-hosts Tara and Kendyl will talk with women who write about, talk about, work in and love basketball. For our first episode we talk to NBC Sports Northwest digital host/reporter Jamie Hudson. We learn more about how busy Jamie is as a digital reporter, her early broadcasting days (including interviewing Sir Charles on the red carpet), and what advice she has for those looking at getting into sports reporting. Other topics includeJamie’s outside shooting skillsChallenges and rewards of being a woman covering sportsWho is surprising us in the NBA this season?Is there another team about to be as obnoxious as the Clippers?Who will be the new face of the NBA when LeBron retires?Which women inspire Jamie Check us out in the coming weeks and months as we talk to more women who love basketball. Get SocialFollow Blazer’s Edge on Twitter @blazesedge, Tara @tcbbiggs, and Kendyl @kendylbennett16. Intro/Outro music"Happy Alley" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, Chad Doing (@chadinripcity) of RipCityRadio 620AM's Afternoon Drive with Travis & Chad joins Dan Marang to discuss; the first 10 games of the season, the Blazer's continued commitment to defense, the revival of Nurk Fever, and the ultimate question- is Jusuf Nurkic a Bad Boy? That and more on this episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast. 1:00 Early Season Expectations, 10 Games In2:00 What’s Most Impressive So Far4:00 Commitment To Defense- Is It Real6:00 Dame Setting The Tone On Both Ends10:00 What Are The Things You Don’t Like So Far12:30 Worried About The Fouls Yet15:30 Is Nurk Fever Upon Us Once Again19:00 Nurkic Pick And Roll20:30 Portland Bad Boys26:00 Lillard On A Tear29:00 Dame’s Maturation30:30 Next 6 Games- How Does It Look33:00 Initial Report On Caleb Swanigan Get social Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Subscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play. We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Blazer’s Edge night has been announced! This year we’re going to send 2,000 kids to the Moda Center to watch the Blazers play the Kings on February 27th, and you can help! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's podcast Dan calls up the numbers to find out just how bad the Trail Blazer's have been close to the basket these first 6 games, and we try to figure out why. Fortunately, thanks to contributions up and down the roster and consistent defense, they've managed to keep a winning record. But how long do we wait to see Damian Lillard and Jusuf Nurkic return to form? Other topics covered this week: -The Patty Buckets nickname debate -Dame has more to offer than just shooting -Is Aminu the 3rd most important player right now? -Playing time for Swanigan and Collins--how much longer will we see either of them on the floor? -Where exactly are the Blazer's struggling in offense, why and how do they fix it? -Upcoming game predictions References Scoring percentages are from NBASavant.Game recap and other statistics from Basketball Reference. Get social Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggsSubscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com.Blazer’s Edge night has been announced! This year we’re going to send 2,000 kids to the Moda Center to watch the Blazers play the Kings on February 27th, and you can help! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Portland Trail Blazers are playing defense in the early going and we’re loving it. Join Tara and Dan on the latest Blazer’s Edge podcast to find out what’s to like, what to keep an eye on and what in the world has gotten into Pat Connaughton? We go in deep on how the Trail Blazer’s did their best to contain Giannis. We like how even though Nurkic struggles at times offensively, he’s still rebounding and staying alert on defense. Damian Lillard is showing up on defense nearly every play--he’s fouling more and chasing through screens more aggressively than we’ve seen before. And, oh my, Ed Davis, welcome back! We check back on some of our preseason observations to find out if they are holding up now that every game counts. The pick and roll defense shows signs of improving. The pace of the game is slightly higher. And for now it seems like Pat Connaughton is taking most of the shots that were once taken by Allen Crabbe. All of this and more on the latest edition of the Blazer’s Edge podcast. References Unless otherwise noted, statistics are from Basketball ReferenceLast 2 Minute Report for Trail Blazers vs BucksNBA Video Rulebook Highlights 1:45 What can we take away from the Phoenix Sun’s Game? 4:53 Pat Connaughton steps up! 7:41 A road victory in Indiana, Evan Turner and Al Farouq Aminu have big night 9:50 Milwaukee game summary. 11:40 Giannis praise. Can’t help it. 15:00 What Portland’s defense did well against Milwaukee: communicating, physicality, pushing guys off their sweet spots. Giannis got 44 points but Aminu, Davis and Harkless all made him work for them. 16:24 Damian seems to have embraced defense. 21:30 Nurkic has struggled offensively but then he wisely goes back to basics--rebounding and defense. 25:37 L2M report from the league--Dan thinks it was a foul, Tara believes the refs. 31:04 How are the Blazers doing defending the pick and roll? Slightly better. 36:10 Are the Blazers speeding up the pace? Yes, by 2 just about 2 possessions a game and 4 more free throw attempts. 37:40 3 solid minutes of Ed Davis love peppered with some Al-Farouq Aminu appreciation. 40:34 Who is getting Allen Crabbe’s shot attempts? Right now it appears to be Pat Connaughton. 44:20 C.J.’s beautiful shot creation and Dame’s sharp shooting. 47:15 Why aren’t the Blazers taking very many corner 3s? Something to watch as the season progresses. 50:50 A moment to enjoy the Steph-KD meltdown in Memphis. 53:35 Injuries ravage the NBA. Get social Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggsSubscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your Blazers’ Edge starting lineup of Tara and Dan recap recent news and take a deep dive into the Trail Blazer’s defensive outlook this season. With a roster much like last year’s, we attempt to set a baseline by which to judge if we see improvement. What areas of the floor do they defend well?In which areas do they allow the most scoring?What is the key to improving defense against the pick and roll?Is this the year continuity pays off?We talk about how new personnel might improve defense in the paint and why C.J. is the key to a defensive turn around. Finally we predict how the Blazer’s are going to start the season. Tara has them starting with a blazing-hot 5 game winning streak. Where do you suppose Dan put them? Tune in to find out all this and more! Highlights 2:07 CJ’s suspension5:00 is C.J. ornery?5:39 Who starts on Opening night?7:30 Blazers waive Anthony Morrow, Isaiah Briscoe and Archie9:19 Nurkic will be a restricted free agent 13:29 Setting the baseline for defense this year16:06 Blazers defense didn’t get better (overall) last year, it got worse19:13 How good a defender is Nurkic?23:47 What the Blazers are good at on defense: corner 3s and at the rim, the two best shots in the league. Good news!31:27 Collins defense in the paint?33:10 Aminu reads the offense well and is a good weak side help defender35:20 Swanigan has the ability to react quickly on defense in the painted area36:58 What type of offense is this team probably best equipped to defend?37:30 Dame and C.J. are good isolation defenders 39:00 Blazers are going to do better against teams that play heavy isolation, like the Lakers who don’t yet have an identity. 44:03 How will we be able to tell when the pick and roll has improved? We’ll see by where the shots get off. Is Chris Paul getting shots off in his favorite spot? 46:03 Here’s where continuity comes in.47:19 C.J. is the most likely to improve on defense and thats fine. 48:37 Off to a strong start Get social Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggsSubscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com.Dan and Tara will be at the Blazer’s Edge Opening Night Viewing Party with Peter Sampson of Blazer’s Edge Radio at Spirit of 77. Stop by and say “Hi”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We squeezed as much information as we possibly could out of the first three preseason games and came up pretty excited about some new offensive wrinkles. The bigs are taking--and making--mid range shots. The team is operating at a faster pace than last year, using nearly 11 more possessions per game. They are relying on fewer pick-and-rolls and relying on more transition and spot up shooting. With the ball in his hands Evan Turner is running the point from on the block. And of course, we can't get enough Swanigan, Swanigan and more Caleb Swanigan! Highlights 2:05 As excited as Dan will be all season. 3:45 Dan loves Swanigan who provides more options than anyone else on the floor not named Lillard, McCollum or Nurkic 6:20 How is Swanigan like Zach Randolph or Draymond Green? 9:55 Tara things Zach Collins shows promise and she promises to carry the torch for him this season 13:55 Dame and CJ were ready for the season to start yesterday 15:05 Nurkic has a jump shot 16:15 Attitude is everything 20:05 Dan predicts Caleb Swanigan is going to lead the Trail Blazers in technical fouls 24:00 Trail Blazers have picked up the pace, at least during pre-season 26:35 Should we worry about how many fouls Nurkic is committing? 28:40 Nurkic offence, getting the ball at the post #feetwork, why he can’t finish 33:55 Back-up ball-handling Evan Turner is hanging out on the post--and it looks like its working 34:45 Andre Miller talk! 40:25 Is Turner getting so much time as back up PG because Shabazz is out, because Crabbe is gone, or better utilization? 41:35 How Portland’s offense is different this preseason from last year. Right now they are going with more spot up and transition plays than pick and roll (their usual bread and butter) 43:55 Efforts to get their shot off faster 49:10 New offensive wrinkles that have guys taking shots from different spots on the floor Get social Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggsSubscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com.Dan and Tara will be at the Blazer’s Edge Opening Night Viewing Party with Peter Sampson of Blazer’s Edge Radio. Stop by and say “Hi”! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hopped up on a combination of Fan Fest euphoria and cold medicine, Dan and Tara discuss which training camp stories have fans talking, what did we learn from the intra-squad scrimmage, and what will we watch for in the preseason. Is this the season Meyers Leonard makes the leap and what exactly does that mean? Will C.J. McCollum surpass Damian as the leading scorer? What does contract-year Ed Davis bring to the table? All this and more on this edition of the Blazer’s Edge Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Its media day and we have the lowdown on a slimmer Jusuf Nurkic, vegan Damian Lillard, impressive Caleb Swanigan and an animated Meyers Leonard. Will this team be the new Bad Boys? Nurk thinks they could be! David MacKay spent the day at the Moda Center with the Trail Blazers and he drops by the Blazer’s Edge podcast for a full report plus a rant about the homogonization of uniforms and a little Melo talk to round it out. Tune in for all this and more on this week’s episode. Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggs Find David at on Twitter at @DavidMacKayNBA We are now part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan and Tara finish up previewing the Western Conference with @hoopcityhellcat Aimee Stiegemeyer, co-founder of All Heart in Hoop City, a Memphis Grizzlies blog written and run by women. We find out how things are going in Memphis where its been an eventful summer with several key Grit-n-Grind players moving on to new teams. Then we discuss the five teams in the division that appears to be, at least for now, the easiest in the west to predict. 1:10 What is the temperature in Memphis4:03 Zach Randolph from Pdx to Memphis 6:47 Dallas Mavericks (and Sacramento Kings are Memphis West)12:40 New Orleans Pelicans, “Go ahead, please”16:09 “The Tony Allen Thing”23:00 Memphis Grizzlies35:30 We remember Mike Conley’s broken face38:28 Houston Rockets47:50 San Antonio Spurs “If you want a vision of the future, imagine the Spurs in the first round - forever.” - paraphrasing George Orwell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are previewing the Pacific Division with Anthony Irwin of Locked on Lakers. What is the timeline for the Phoenix Suns and how patient are their fans? Do Laker’s fans believe in Magic? What is the identity of the Sacramento Kings? Will the Clippers thrive without Chris Paul and how much Patrick Beverley talk does it take before Dan loses it? Finally, Kevin Durant . . . hyperbole . . . yada, yada, yada, Tara lets the guys talk about the Team From the Bay Area for 5 minutes before she cuts them off. We’ve reached across the aisle to find common ground with a smart (if opinionated) Lakers fan. From musecages to Kobe in retirement, from Vivek Ranadivé in VR glasses to Doc Rivers’ extra rounds of golf, we talk about all kinds of fun Pacific Division topics while coming up with hashtags for the teams and laughing all the way (because if we weren't laughing, we'd be crying). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dustin and Sage from the Holy Backboard podcast join FANalysts Tara and Jo to preview the Northwest Division. Find out what they think about the uber-competitive Northwest Division and all the newest arrivals like Jimmy Butler, Ricky Rubio, Paul Millsap and Paul George. What about the stars who are still here, like Karl Anthony Towns, Nicola Jokic, Rudy Gobert, and Russell Westbrook? How will they incorporate all the new pieces? For each team they look at what are their strengths, how do you beat them, and what are the wildcard storylines? Along the way they remember what they got wrong and what they got right about last year’s predictions. All this and more on the second annual Holy Backboard/Blazer’s Edge Northwest Division Preview! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

News! Yay, let’s go over some news! Damian Lillard is zip-lining and he's a vegan now. and Jusuf Nurkic is number 69 on the SI top 100 players. What does all this mean? Lets get caught up on some personnel moves--Pat Connaughton is sticking around, Archie Goodwin is coming to training camp and CJ Wilcox is another 6'5" guard. Finally, how do we put this all together to determine, what is the identity of this team? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

James Holas of BBallBreakdown.com joins Tara Bowen-Biggs and Dan Marang for this episode of the Blazer's Edge podcast to discuss James' theory that Damian Lillard is posed for a breakout year which will lead the Portland Trail Blazers to the playoffs. Along the way they discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers trade with the Boston Celtics that was supposed to send Kyrie Irving to the Celtics for Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and the Brooklyn Net's 2018 1st round pick- which has since stalled out due to hesitation by the Cavaliers over Thomas' hip injury. What else would Boston give up in order to facilitate this trade? Where does Portland fall in the Western Conference? Who would be the best match up for Portland in the playoffs? That and more on this week's episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 231. Dan and Tara start by talking about which Trail Blazer they thought most exceeded expectations before taking a look a what we might expect from this year’s team. What can Damian Lillard do to take his game to another level? Can C.J. McCollum continue the defense that he showed during the playoffs? Will Jusuf Nurkic have an outside shot? Will 2015-16 Ed Davis return from injury? What can Al-Farouq Aminu and Moe Harkless do to make the team better? We’re all about internal development this week on the Blazer’s Edge podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 230. Dan and Tara dive into new news from the Portland Trail Blazers. They go over the recently released schedule and take a look at the Kevin Pelton’s NBA 2018 Season Projections for ESPN. Dan talks about how he approaches previewing teams and Tara talks about getting seduced by continuity last year. All this and more the latest Blazer’s Edge podcast. Download the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 229. Fanalysts Tara and Jo are joined by Evan McCarthy, artist and graphics and clothing designer for EvanemPdx to talk all about the new Trail Blazer’s uniforms and remember uniforms of the past. The direct .mp3 link of this week’s podcast is here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan and Tara talk about how the Trail Blazers might fill the gap created by trading away Allen Crabbe: What did Allen Crabbe do for the Blazers? What can be made up for with the current roster? A case for Gerald Henderson. What might the front office do next? Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 227 Just when we thought it was safe to turn off the Twitter notifications, the Trail Blazers have made a move. Tara Biggs and Eric Griffith dig into the specifics of the Allen Crabbe for Andrew Nicholson trade, talk about what they will remember most about Cool Breeze, come up with an algebra quiz question and guess what the future holds for the Trail Blazers. All this and more on a special Allen Crabbe Trade edition of the Blazer’s Edge podcast. Download the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 226 At NBA Summer League we got a look (admittedly abbreviated) at rookies Zach Collins and Caleb Swanigan. How did their performance hold up to Dan’s initial assessment of their talents? Will they get minutes? Who has a higher ceiling of the two? Dan and Tara recap summer league, talk about what “athleticism” means, wonder about Pat Connaughton’s future, and briefly chat about the merits of Melo in Portland. Download the podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 225 Tara is joined by David MacKay, Brian Freeman and Steve Dewald to talk about the Portland Trail Blazers at the 2017 NBA Summer League. What are their initial impressions of Zach Collins, Caleb Swanigan, Jake Layman and Pat Connaughton so far? Are there other players/teams who have stood out? How about that defense, is it a hint of what is to come or is it fools gold? All this and much more on this week’s podcast. Download the episode Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 224 Free agency is in full swing. Dan Marang and Tara Bowen-Biggs talk about the draft, free agency and NBA Summer League while under Gordon Hayward watch. What does the Blazer’s activity on draft night tell you about the future of the team? Will Zach Collins and Caleb Swanigan contribute right away? Does it surprise you that the Trail Blazers have not done anything yet in free agency? All this and more on this week's edition of the Blazer's Edge podcast. Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 223 The FANalysts are back! Tara provides an update on what went down on draft night as well as thoughts on the newest Trail Blazers, Zach Collins and Caleb Swanigan. Jo discusses her feelings about a possible LaMarcus Aldridge return along with how he might fit into the current lineup. Finally, we survey the landscape and make predictions (wild guesses) about where some of the biggest name free agents might end up, including Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and Gordon Hayward. Download the podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP 222: When the 2017 NBA Draft commences Thursday night, the Portland Trail Blazers will be packing a trio of first-round picks and a mandate for change. Coming off a 41-41 season, carrying a salary burden well past the luxury tax threshold, Portland cannot afford—literally or figuratively—to stay the course. What shape their evolution takes will depend on priorities and opportunities. Do they value economic sanity, winning at all costs, a slowly-emerging future or instant success? Are any of those eventualities within reach? We discuss these subjects and more in the latest edition of the Blazer’s Edge podcast. Dwight Howard to Charlotte, Paul George on the market, Kristaps Porzingis for CJ McCollum, and what the Blazers will end up doing in the draft...it’s all in there! Enjoy!DOWNLOAD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 221 Blazer's Edge features editor Eric Griffith joins Team Mom to unpack the rules around draft picks. What can the Trail Blazers actually do with three first round draft picks? Salary dumps, the Stepien rule, and draft-and-stash--we dig into the rules and options. When the rumors start to fly leading up to the 2017 draft, we'll be ready to sort out the pipe dreams from the real possibilities. Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 220 Tara talks with Brian Freeman, Blazer’s Edge features writer and former European League basketball player. They catch up NBA Draft Lottery and All-NBA teams and then turn to Brian’s experiences playing overseas. Tune in to hear about his dad who played with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robinson on the Milwaukee Bucks, about his journey from Long Beach State (where he played against Damian Lillard) to Poland and finally, his six years in France. Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 219 Jo calls in from the wilds of Alaska to compare Blazer wish lists for next season. Do the FANalysts’ hopes and dreams for 2017-18 match yours? A mentor for Noah Vonleh A podcast for C.J. McCollum Handles for Al-Farouq Aminu More shots for Allen Crabbe#MoeDunks Listen to hear all these and what they are hoping for Lillard, Nurkic, Leonard and more! Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP. 218: On this week’s Blazer’s Edge podcast, Dave Deckard and Dan Marang discuss if it’s possible to build a title contending team around a franchise point guard, CJ McCollum’s suggestion that the Blazer’s should pursue Paul George in the offseason, their biggest surprises of the 2016-17 season, if Lonzo Ball and the accompanying LaVar Ball scare them, where Portland could and should be looking in the draft, and the layoffs of ESPN employees Henry Abbott, Marc Stein, and Chad Ford. That and more on this week’s episode of the Blazer’s Edge podcast! Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP. 217: Exit Interview Follies On this week’s Blazer’s Edge podcast, Dave Deckard and Dan Marang take a look at the closing games of the Blazer’s playoffs and ultimately, their season. With the year coming to a close, exit interviews between a majority of the players and the media took place Tuesday afternoon. Those exit interviews included revealing quotes about Meyers Leonard, Allen Crabbe, Festus Ezeli, Neil Olshey and the state of the team. Plus we dive into the recent controversy surrounding Portland’s basketball culture. That and more on this week’s Blazer’s Edge podcast! Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 216. Dan Marang joins Tara to talk about the first two games of the Trail Blazer’s 2017 NBA Playoff series. Dan answers all of Tara's questions about what we know about this team, how they have progressed over the season and where they might go from here. Download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices