The Blazers have taken valuable steps this season, positioned well above the league basement as the 12th worst team. Among all the promising talents, rookie sensation Jaden Ivey, only 23 years old, emerged as a strong candidate after an unfortunate season-ending injury. Prior to his devastating injury, Ivey dazzled audiences with a number of surreal outings. He provided the memorable game-winning dramatic four-point play in Sacramento and hit a running buzzer-beater that beat the Raptors.
Ivey’s time with the Sixers was a display of his offensive skill, as shown by his elite usage rate of 25.9%. Unfortunately, his season came prematurely to an end, leaving fans clamoring to watch him back again next season.
Quentin Grimes is entering a big career moment, as he’s headed to restricted free agency this summer. Grimes has Ivey’s same 25.9% usage rate, but maintaining a number like that will be difficult in his second season. Curiously, Grimes leads the NBA in charges taken, which speaks volumes about his defensive grittiness.
Franz Wagner has joined him as one of the consistently excellent performers, although he missed 20 games with a left oblique tear sustained on December 6. Wagner’s three-point shooting is still just 30%, despite ramping up his attempts. His defensive genius is the biggest asset to his team. His flurries of activity often change the course of games.
"There's times when it looks like he's beat, but he's able to recover so well. And sometimes we get into trouble because guys end up overhelping [thinking Daniels can't get back into the play], and now someone else is open," said Quin Snyder, highlighting the defensive skills that players like Wagner bring to the court.
Wagner has recorded three triple-doubles this season, emphasizing his versatility and playmaking abilities. His knowledge of the game has really increased, giving greater intentionality to his actions on the floor.
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