Trail Blazers Urged To Make Surprising Decision With Ja Morant

The Portland Trail Blazers have no shortage of talent in their backcourt heading into the 2026-27 NBA season, but figuring out how to distribute those minutes could become one of new Head Coach Micah Nori's biggest challenges. With Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, Scoot Henderson and Jrue Holiday all competing for opportunities, Portland may need to make a difficult decision regarding one of its biggest names.

One potential solution is moving Morant to the bench. That is the approach ESPN's Ben Golliver recently suggested, arguing that Lillard's progress during the preseason has provided Portland with a clearer picture of how its starting lineup should look. Although Lillard is 36 years old and will need to be managed carefully as he ramps up for the season, his performance in exhibition action has given the Blazers reason to feel optimistic about his readiness, "The 36-year-old star has generally looked sharp and shot the ball well in exhibition action," Golliver wrote. "Though Portland should still be careful with his early-season ramp-up, Lillard's readiness brings much-needed clarity to a guard-heavy roster."

Golliver believes the best way for Nori to balance the roster is to pair Lillard with either Henderson or Holiday in the starting lineup while allowing Morant to lead the second unit. The recommendation may come as a surprise considering Morant's star power, but it reflects the importance of building a lineup that works rather than simply prioritizing individual reputations.

Morant's preseason performance has reportedly done little to strengthen his case for a starting role, giving Portland a reason to explore other options. Bringing him off the bench would not necessarily diminish his importance to the team. Instead, it could give him more opportunities to handle the ball, attack opposing defenses and establish himself as the primary offensive option when Lillard or Henderson rests.

It would also help preserve a larger role for Deni Avdija, who has emerged as a central figure in Portland's plans. With Avdija capable of creating offense and contributing in multiple areas, the Blazers need to make sure their collection of guards does not limit his opportunities to operate as a focal point.

The challenge for Nori will be managing expectations while getting the most out of a roster filled with established names. Morant is accustomed to being a centerpiece, and moving him to the bench would require an adjustment. However, a second-unit role could ultimately make Portland more balanced and give the team a better chance to maximize its offensive options.

The Blazers have enough talent to build several competitive lineups. Their success may depend on whether Nori is willing to make uncomfortable decisions early, even when that means asking a star like Morant to sacrifice a starting spot for the greater good of the team.