As the Portland Trail Blazers recently trudged through games without leader Damian Lillard, it became clear that they were lacking in roster weapons. CJ McCollum is Portland’s clear No. 2 guy, but defenses have frustrated him. Al-Farouq Aminu and Jusuf Nurkic range from great to ghastly. Well-paid guys like Evan Turner and Maurice Harkless have packed little punch.
Lack of consistency among mainline players in a struggling offense has led head coach Terry Stotts to look rely on unusual contributors. Shabazz Napier has grown into the darling of Rip City with his steady hand and shot-making ability.