Portland Trail Blazers Roster 2021: A Look Back

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Portland Trail Blazers roster of 2021. It's always fun to see where players were and how the team dynamic looked just a few years back. So, let's dive in and check out who was rocking that Blazers jersey! This article will provide an in-depth look at each player, their roles, and how they contributed to the team during that season. We'll explore the starting lineup, key bench players, and even some of the lesser-known names that were part of the squad. Get ready for a nostalgic journey filled with stats, stories, and a whole lot of basketball talk!

The Starting Lineup

Let's kick things off with the stars, the guys who were consistently hitting the court as the starting five. In the 2021 season, the Portland Trail Blazers boasted a dynamic starting lineup that fans loved to watch. This section is dedicated to breaking down each player's role and contributions.

Damian Lillard

Of course, we have to start with Damian Lillard, the heart and soul of the Blazers! Dame was the undisputed leader, and his incredible scoring ability and clutch performances were the stuff of legends. He was the engine that drove the team, and his leadership both on and off the court was invaluable. Lillard's scoring prowess was on full display, consistently dropping high numbers and carrying the team through tough games. Beyond the stats, his passion and dedication to the Blazers made him a fan favorite and an icon in Portland. He was the guy you wanted with the ball in his hands when the game was on the line, and he rarely disappointed. Lillard's impact extended beyond scoring; he was also a playmaker, setting up his teammates for easy baskets and making smart decisions with the ball. His presence alone elevated the team's performance and instilled a sense of confidence in his teammates. Lillard's contributions were not just limited to the regular season; he consistently stepped up his game in the playoffs, delivering memorable performances that etched his name in Blazers' history. He was the epitome of a superstar, and his commitment to the team and the city of Portland was unwavering.

CJ McCollum

Next up, we have CJ McCollum, Dame's partner in crime! CJ's smooth offensive game and scoring touch made him a perfect complement to Lillard. Together, they formed one of the most potent backcourt duos in the league. McCollum's ability to create his own shot and his efficiency from beyond the arc made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. He was not just a scorer; McCollum was also a capable playmaker and a solid defender, contributing in multiple facets of the game. His versatility allowed the Blazers to run various offensive sets and keep defenses guessing. McCollum's chemistry with Lillard was evident, and their ability to read each other's movements and anticipate passes made them a nightmare for opposing teams. He was a key component of the Blazers' success, and his contributions often went beyond the box score. McCollum's consistency and reliability made him a player the Blazers could always count on, and his presence provided a sense of stability to the team. He was a true professional, always prepared and dedicated to improving his game. McCollum's impact on the Blazers was significant, and his partnership with Lillard will be remembered as one of the greatest backcourt duos in NBA history.

Norman Powell

Norman Powell was a key addition to the Blazers' lineup, bringing athleticism and scoring punch to the wing. Powell's ability to attack the basket and knock down shots made him a valuable asset. Powell was acquired during the season to bolster the team's offensive capabilities and provide additional scoring options. His athleticism and explosiveness added a new dimension to the Blazers' attack, and his ability to create his own shot made him a difficult matchup for defenders. Powell's defensive intensity and ability to guard multiple positions were also valuable assets, helping the Blazers improve their overall defense. He quickly integrated into the team's system and developed a good rapport with his teammates. Powell's contributions were particularly important in the playoffs, where his scoring and defensive presence helped the Blazers compete against tough opponents. He was a key part of the team's success, and his addition proved to be a shrewd move by the Blazers' front office. Powell's impact was immediate, and he quickly became a fan favorite for his energetic play and clutch performances.

Robert Covington

Then there's Robert Covington, the defensive specialist. Covington's three-and-D skillset was crucial for the Blazers, providing much-needed perimeter defense and floor spacing. Covington's defensive prowess was his calling card, and his ability to disrupt opponents' offenses was invaluable. He was a master of deflections and steals, often creating fast-break opportunities for the Blazers. Covington's three-point shooting was also a key part of his game, spacing the floor and providing driving lanes for Lillard and McCollum. His presence on the court made the Blazers a better defensive team, and his contributions often went unnoticed in the box score. Covington's versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes. He was a true professional, always focused on doing the little things that contribute to winning. Covington's impact on the Blazers was significant, and his defensive presence helped the team compete against some of the league's top offensive teams.

Jusuf Nurkić

Last but not least, we have Jusuf Nurkić, the big man in the middle. Nurkić's size and strength provided a physical presence in the paint, and his rebounding and interior scoring were vital for the Blazers. Nurkić was the anchor of the Blazers' defense, protecting the rim and challenging shots. His rebounding prowess was also a key part of his game, giving the Blazers second-chance opportunities on offense. Nurkić's interior scoring and passing ability made him a valuable offensive weapon, and his presence in the paint created space for Lillard and McCollum to operate. His physicality and toughness were essential to the Blazers' success, and his presence often disrupted opponents' game plans. Nurkić's contributions were not just limited to the regular season; he consistently stepped up his game in the playoffs, delivering memorable performances that helped the Blazers compete against tough opponents. He was a key part of the team's identity, and his presence provided a sense of stability to the Blazers.

Key Bench Players

Of course, a team is more than just its starters! The bench players brought energy, depth, and versatility to the Blazers. Let's highlight some of the guys who made a difference coming off the bench.

Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony provided instant offense and veteran leadership off the bench. Melo's scoring ability was still evident, and he could light it up in a hurry. Anthony's veteran experience and scoring prowess made him a valuable asset off the bench, providing instant offense and a calming presence. His ability to create his own shot and knock down tough shots made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Anthony's leadership and mentorship of younger players were also valuable assets, helping the team develop and improve. His presence on the court provided a sense of stability and confidence, and his contributions often went beyond the box score. Anthony's impact on the Blazers was significant, and his scoring ability helped the team compete against some of the league's top offensive teams. He was a true professional, always focused on doing whatever it takes to help the team win.

Enes Kanter (Freedom)

Enes Kanter (Freedom) was a rebounding machine and a solid interior scorer. Kanter's energy and hustle were contagious, and he always brought a spark to the team. Kanter's rebounding prowess and interior scoring made him a valuable asset off the bench, providing energy and a physical presence. His ability to grab offensive rebounds created second-chance opportunities for the Blazers, and his interior scoring helped the team diversify its offensive attack. Kanter's energy and hustle were contagious, and he always brought a spark to the team. His presence on the court provided a sense of toughness and determination, and his contributions often went beyond the box score. Kanter's impact on the Blazers was significant, and his rebounding ability helped the team compete against some of the league's top rebounding teams. He was a true professional, always focused on doing whatever it takes to help the team win.

Anfernee Simons

Anfernee Simons showed flashes of brilliance and provided a glimpse of his future potential. Simons' athleticism and shooting ability made him an exciting player to watch. Simons' athleticism and shooting ability made him a valuable asset off the bench, providing instant offense and a glimpse of his future potential. His ability to create his own shot and knock down tough shots made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Simons' confidence and poise on the court belied his age, and he showed flashes of brilliance that hinted at his potential stardom. His presence on the court provided a sense of excitement and anticipation, and his contributions often went beyond the box score. Simons' impact on the Blazers was significant, and his scoring ability helped the team compete against some of the league's top offensive teams. He was a true professional, always focused on improving his game and helping the team win.

Other Notable Players

While the above players got most of the spotlight, several other guys contributed to the team in various ways. These players provided depth and filled specific roles when needed.

Nassir Little: A promising young player with defensive potential.
Derrick Jones Jr.: An athletic wing player known for his defensive abilities.
CJ Elleby: A young player looking to develop his game.
Harry Giles: A skilled big man with potential.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Portland Trail Blazers roster was a mix of established stars, key role players, and promising young talent. While they faced challenges and didn't reach their ultimate goal, it was still an exciting season filled with memorable moments. It's always interesting to look back and appreciate the players who wore the Blazers jersey and contributed to the team's legacy. Each player brought something unique to the table, and their collective efforts made for a compelling season of basketball. Whether it was Lillard's clutch performances, McCollum's smooth scoring, or Covington's defensive prowess, there were plenty of reasons to cheer for the Blazers in 2021. So, here's to the 2021 Blazers – a team that gave us plenty to remember and talk about! This team will always hold a special place in the hearts of Blazers fans, and their contributions to the franchise will not be forgotten. The memories and moments created during that season will continue to be cherished for years to come.