Like backyard BBQ’s and tourists flocking to the beach, Portland Trail Blazers fans devising new ways to trade shooting guard CJ McCollum is an annual rite of summer. Since at least 2016, passionate followers and analysts alike have wondered whether McCollum’s pairing with backcourt mate Damian Lillard was a viable way for the Blazers to ascend to contending status. Each season, McCollum produces brilliantly. Each off-season, it doesn’t seem like quite enough.
Even with the repeated ritual, 2021 is different. Part of that comes with age; Lillard will turn 31, McCollum 30 before the start of next season.