Portland Trail Blazers and Nicolas Batum
The play against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night by the Portland Trail Blazers was electrifying and a great play to close out the game. Something that the Portland Trail Blazers have struggled to complete in close games. On Monday, the Trail Blazers played in front of a small crowd and didn’t let the Grizzlies’ late rally baffle them. The constant play of defense and offense contributed to a forced victory. For the Trail Blazers to be successful, they must enlist the help of Nicolas Batum. The little Forward is playing with confidence and is only making good plays down the stretch. Especially plays like triples, dunks, steals, and blocks.
First, Nicolas Batum is from France and is considered one of the most talented young prospects in the NBA. Playing in the French basketball league has helped him a lot in his development. I’d say Nicolas is way ahead of some of the NBA’s 21-year-olds. At 6’8 and playing forward, Nicholas is capable of shooting over the smaller guards and defending the best players from the other teams. To illustrate this point, Nicolas made four 3-pointers against Memphis and continues to show that he is a talented offensive talent when needed. Although, Batum missed 45 games this season due to a shoulder injury. He’s showing consistent stardom and impressing Coach McMillian with his performance.
Second, Batum will dive into opposing players when necessary. In other words, Batum is not afraid to go to the basket. It’s important that young players don’t settle for jump shots all the time. It takes guts and strength to finish on the rim, and Batum will one day be one of the best. Batum often does the dirty work, which many NBA players don’t want to fit into that category. Every team needs a player like Batum who is willing to do what it takes to win games. Batum reminds me a lot of Scottie Pippin, Dennis Rodman, Bruce Bowan and the players who are not normally the center of attention, but are the glue of the base. However, Batum won the European Championship and was voted the MVP on various teams. He’s a gem in the rough and he’s ready to help the Blazers move forward for years to come.
Third, Batum has very long arms and is athletic. He has the ability to block shots and change the way teams play offense. For example, on Monday night the Memphis Grizzlies’ Mike Conley was on a fast break and ready to score, but Batum reached out and blocked the shot and stopped an important marker. He is very aggressive and begins to establish himself as a leader and important swingman. The Blazers’ offense is focused on LaMarcus, Roy and O’den. However, Nicholas will have the opportunity to provide the necessary help and block certain star players.
Last but not least, Nicholas will help the Trail Blazers reach the playoffs. His ability to score, block, steal, dump and finish plays is a sought-after commodity. It is comforting to see that young players are not selfish and are into themselves. I think Batum is a team player and is willing to listen to the coach. His performance against the Grizzlies is a reminder to the Trail Blazers that they have remarkable talent and please be willing to play with him instead of sitting on the beach.
Please see the link below for additional information or questions.
http://basketballandsports.blogspot.com/
Dewayne N Penney,
Basketball fan
