Trail Blazers Expected To Remain Competitive In Loaded Western Conference

The Portland Trail Blazers have plenty of questions heading into the 2026-27 NBA season, but one prominent analyst believes the team's talent should be enough to keep it in the postseason picture.

The Athletic's John Hollinger predicted Portland will finish seventh in the Western Conference in his latest NBA season projections, putting the Blazers in position to compete for a playoff spot through the play-in tournament. Although Hollinger sees some potential problems with the roster, he believes Portland has the personnel to remain competitive in a difficult conference, "Nonetheless, Portland likely has too much raw talent to miss the Play-In. Even with the Morant and Lillard traffic cones, this projects as a good defense. Donovan Clingan is an emerging defensive force in the middle. Toumani Camara is an elite wing defender. Robert Williams III is arguably the league’s best backup center. And Jrue Holiday is still out there doing Jrue Holiday things."

Hollinger's assessment highlights the balance Portland will need to find between its offensive potential and defensive limitations. The additions of Ja Morant and the returning Damian Lillard give the Blazers a backcourt loaded with scoring ability and playmaking experience. However, both guards have defensive limitations that could put additional pressure on the rest of the lineup.

That is where Portland's frontcourt and veteran personnel could make a difference. Clingan has emerged as an important interior presence, giving the Blazers a young center capable of protecting the rim and controlling the glass. Camara provides versatility on the perimeter, while Williams offers another valuable defensive option when Clingan needs a break.

Holiday also gives Portland an experienced guard who can defend multiple positions and help stabilize the team's rotation. His ability to contribute without dominating the ball could prove particularly important with Morant, Lillard and Deni Avdija all expected to have significant offensive responsibilities.

Still, reaching the play-in tournament is not the same as establishing the Blazers as legitimate contenders in the Western Conference. The team must find a way to make its collection of guards work together, particularly when opponents target its defensive weaknesses. Portland also needs to maintain the progress it made last season while adjusting to another coaching change under Micah Nori.

The encouraging part of Hollinger's prediction is that he sees enough talent to overcome those concerns. Portland finished 42-40 last season, earned the seventh seed through the play-in tournament and returned to the playoffs for the first time in five years. The roster has changed considerably since then, but the expectation of competing for postseason basketball remains realistic.

Hollinger's seventh-place projection would put Portland in a strong position to reach the playoffs again. The Blazers still have plenty to prove, but their combination of young talent, defensive personnel and experienced guards gives them a foundation to build on in 2026-27.