The Portland Trail Blazers showcased their resilience this week, securing two victories against the Houston Rockets while narrowly losing to the New York Knicks, resulting in a 2-1 record for the week. Among the standout performers, guard Caleb Love earned the title of Blazer of the Week for his impressive contributions.
Throughout the week, Love averaged 16.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. His shooting performance was highlighted by a 42.3% success rate from three-point range, demonstrating his ability to stretch defenses. Although he faced challenges with overall shooting efficiency at 41.9%, Love’s dedication to finding quality shots, particularly from beyond the arc, has paid dividends for the team.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, the rookie guard has emerged as a crucial asset off the bench for Portland. His significant time spent with the Blazers, rather than the G-League, reflects his rapid development and increasing reliability as a scoring option. Now, Love has recorded double-digit points in 11 consecutive games, providing a much-needed scoring boost for the team, especially during a period marked by injuries to key players.
In addition to Love, Deni Avdija also had a remarkable week, averaging 28.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His performance peaked with a season-high 41 points, showcasing his scoring prowess. However, during the loss to the Knicks, Avdija sustained a back injury that caused him to exit the game late in the fourth quarter. Updates on his condition are expected to be provided in the upcoming injury report, particularly with the Blazers gearing up for their next matchup against the Golden State Warriors.
As the season progresses, the Blazers remain focused not only on their on-court success but also on their community involvement. Fans are encouraged to support initiatives that help underprivileged children experience the excitement of a live Blazers game this March. The team continues to embody a spirit of perseverance as they navigate challenges while uplifting their community.