Travis Outlaw has many detractors amongst the
Nate McMillan has long been a believer in Outlaw and his jumper. Nate has relied on him in almost every crucial situation the team has faced since 2007 and Outlaw hasn’t let him down. Well not any more than any player called upon to win a game in the waning moments across the NBA.
Both sides of the fan base will now be given an opportunity to make their case for Outlaw’s worth to the team. Saturday in
Tonight the Blazers face the Atlanta Hawks, a team that is known for length and athleticism at that 3-4 position with swing man Josh Smith. Smith is a nightmare matchup as he has the body and speed of a 3 but sees the bulk of his minutes at the 4 due to his defensive prowess and incomparable shot blocking ability.
Last time the Blazers faced the Hawks, Smith had a great game against LaMarcus Aldridge and scored at will. The only lows in his game that day came when Outlaw was guarding him, matching his athleticism and length.
Outlaw was having a stellar season thus far and was on his way another season of career highs, which is not an uncommon event for players in a contract year.
Now the onus will be back on Nate to get out his lab coat and periodic table to make the rotation work again. His science experiment has worked twice this season going to the 3 guard lineup and replacing the injured Nicolas Batum, now he simply has to come up with a hypotenuse and put the theory in motion to make sure that his team can continue its recent success.
This could mean extended looks at Rookie Dante Cunningham or a push to get injured Rookie Jeff Pendergraph back earlier than expected. It could simply mean more minutes for LA or more of the much loved "Twin Tower" lineup.
However Nate attempts to fill the void, a healthy Outlaw would be his, and my, first choice.
-Kurt Valentine
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