NBA/Blazers 2025-26 Thread

[Everythingsducky]

I didn’t even bother to read that d-bag article, that Deni HAS to speak out. What a load of horsesh*t. Gaslighting anything possible to keep that garbage fishwrap from bankruptcy, where it is headed anyway. I don’t watch sports to worry about a players religion, politics, etc. I watch to get the hell away from that crap. Deni owes us nothing but to keep playing like his hair is on fire. 200% Deni supporter, and this team would absolutely suck if he weren’t on the team. He’s basically the ONLY reason I watch them.

[pezsez1]

Which article are you guys talking about? The one in The Athletic?

I just read up on some of the response to that article and also about Deni's comments, and I don't think he said anything bad. I'm not going to expect him to denounce his country's actions given the pain and trauma from that initial Hamas attack. I remember when 9-11 happened, and everyone was pretty united in wanting to kick ass and bomb something into the ground. Now, take that, and multiple it by x1000 because of the length and depth of this conflict. I can't even pretend to understand what people in that part of the world are born into and have to think about (even in the backs of their minds) on a daily basis. Am I against mass genocide? Yes, of course. I think most people would be. But in the wake of the Hamas attack I just don't think that's how many Israelis see this, and to be completely honest, I can't blame them. I think Deni probably has a good heart and doesn't want his life or career defined by a conflict that's out of his hands.

[nogerO]

Seriously!? Quit bringing politics into everything Duck07.

I merely stated my disinterest in the team, especially in light of Deni's recent interview where he wanted to let everyone know where he stands.

Or is the topic of Blazers personal interviews not part of the thread?

Interviews are certainly part of the thread but, since you started it, I'll finish it. Your poster hero FA and FO. Now block me please as your TDS is nauseating.

[pezsez1]

TDS

This really is the most evasive, chickenshit term in American politics today.

[dd10snoop28]

I actually searched the comments that 07 was referring to and found his comments to extremely non-controversial and cool-headed. Props to him and I am realizing that whenever a certain country in the middle east gets brought up, so many people begin to lose their collective minds (reason is thrown out the window in favor of outrage). Deni's comments below:


---------------------------------------------------------------

On politics and his role:

“I’m an athlete. I don’t really get into politics — it’s not my job. I obviously stand for my country, because that’s where I’m from.”

On hate and respect:

“It’s frustrating to see all the hate. Like, I have a good game or get All-Star votes, and all the comments are people connecting me to politics. Why can’t I just be a good basketball player? Why does it matter if I’m from Israel… Just respect me as a basketball player.”
“You don’t have to love what I stand for or how I look, but if I’m a good player, give props. All this hate — for no reason. Like, I’m deciding things in the world.”

On understanding and commentary:

“I’ll be honest: What do people expect me to do? This is my country — where I was born, where I grew up. I love my country; there are a lot of great things about it. But obviously, not everyone is educated and knows what’s going on… But if you are not educated and you are not part of the Middle East… just don’t say anything.”

On pride in his homeland:

“I’m from there, and I respect my country and I stand behind it. I’m a proud Israeli, because that’s where I grew up. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for Israel and the support its people and fans gave me.”

[Phalanx]

Was watching a presser for Learner Tien after he lost to Zverev in the quarters at the Australian Open. Some reporter asked him about how important immigrants are with Trump and ICE, etc. He just said that he would rather not talk about it. Reporters with agendas and pre-written narratives are always attempting to infuse left-wing politics into sports. It's pretty gross. Most of us like sports because it is a haven from all of that yuck.

It was a bummer that Portland lost, but nice to see Pritchard starting for the Celtics now. Meanwhile, the Blazers are improving despite a terrible draft and a terrible free agent signing in Lillard. Adding a solid free agent and a solid rookie would have really helped this team.

[Boom]

Blazers with essentially their full rotation lost to the lowly Wizards

[pezsez1]

What do folks here think of getting Mikal Bridges as the third team involved in a possible Giannis trade?

[Boom]

What do folks here think of getting Mikal Bridges as the third team involved in a possible Giannis trade?

He's a good player, but I'm not sure it really moves the needle. Blazers need to find an All NBA type player to build around. Bridges would be more of the same.

[bellsduck]

Agree. Those Bucks picks are more valuable than Bridges.
Bridges plays a lot, but isn't an All-Star type player which is what we'd need in return.

[pezsez1]

What if we got Bridges and some combo of picks?

[nogerO]

TDS

This really is the most evasive, chickenshit term in American politics today.

Sounds just like someone afflicted would say.

[pezsez1]

Back to things that aren't gutless chickenshit nonsense...

IT'S DAME TIME AGAIN!

[Phalanx]

Another useless accolade for Lillard. Meanwhile:

Lillard's career win/loss record in the playoffs: 24-44

Lillard's career playoff shooting percentage: .409

Please let it be anything but 'Dame Time'.

[pezsez1]

Dame never had a Portland team that could have made the playoffs without him.

Now he's on one that might reach the playoffs without him.

Excited to see what Dame and Deni can do together!