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CJ McCollum, the long-awaited click at last in Portland?

CJ McCollum has been the subject of much discussion in recent months. Considered number 2 in the Portland Trail Blazers to support Damian Lillard, the rear disappointed a lot. Without being “Wrong” Statistically, the 30-year-old hasn’t represented enough support for his leader.

And with the inability of this team to pass a milestone, their name has been mentioned very regularly in the rumors for a possible trade. But with his $ 100 million contract until 2024, the Cantonese native does not embody an element that is easy to move.

Then with the arrival of the trainer Chauncey Billups this summer there was also the hope of finding the right formula with McCollum. A choice that is paying off for the moment.

CJ McCollum part fort !

Because if Lillard has trouble starting the machine, McCollum is already in good form. In its performance, the rear is not flawless. He even has waste, like his 8/21 on shots last night against the Memphis Grizzlies (116-96).

But he remains invested and involved (25 points). And above all, the # 10 pick of the 2013 Draft takes its responsibilities. A signal all the stronger as Lillard is in a bit of trouble with his shot. Rather than hide away (a criticism often made in the past), McCollum has taken a step forward.

In the collective of the Blazers under Billups, with a ball that circulates more, he achieves a canon start to the season: 26.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3 assists on average. 49% on shots, 48% at long distance and 90% on the line (career records).

“Collectively I think we can still play at this level, I really think so. We are focused defensively on what we have to do, what the opponents want to do, we challenge them and we eliminate the problems.

And offensively, I feel like we have so many guys who can make a difference. We can share the ball, and take advantage of our defensive stops to run. By playing the right way we can become a very good team “, assured Billups.

In this scheme, McCollum feasts and stands out. The proof: with 20 successful shots behind the arc, he is the leader in this sector in the NBA.

Why transferring CJ McCollum will be complex for the Blazers

A status to be confirmed …

But as often in the analyzes of the beginning of the season, we must avoid getting carried away. In 4 matches, we can obviously see that CJ McCollum is in a good period. But is it sustainable? Can he confirm over time? It is still too early to answer these questions.

However, after a very lively offseason for him (compared to rumors), his reaction on the pitch remains interesting. She already proves a real mental strength. But also a desire to prove its worth.

Despite criticism, the # 3 of the Blazers manages to just focus on his performances.

“There will be fans who will like you, others who will not be fans of you. And still others who will like you, but still want you to be traded. I don’t take it to heart. Everyone has it. the right to have his own opinion and I appreciate passionate fans.

I can’t wait to continue my career here. I look forward to assuming my responsibilities. And I have no problem with the consequences of being a very high profile, very well paid and expected player for his performance “, had assured CJ McCollum before the start of the season.

For now, CJ McCollum is clearly living up to his words. And by continuing this momentum, its detractors will be very rare. Like the rumors of a possible trade … But it is still necessary to keep this yield when Damian Lillard regains his splendor.

This is most certainly one of the keys to Portland’s ambitions.

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