Trail Blazers poised for improvement with key player additions

The Portland Trail Blazers are set to begin the 2026-27 NBA season after finishing with a 42-win record last season and entering the playoffs as the seventh seed. The team has strengthened its roster by acquiring Ja Morant and bringing a healthy Damian Lillard back on the court. Morant's ability to create plays will complement Lillard's scoring threat, potentially raising the team's offensive output. Although oddsmakers project a similar win total of 42.5, analysts suggest the Blazers could reach 45 to 47 wins with the new additions. Integrating the new players under head coach Micah Nori may take time. The Blazers' season begins soon, with the potential for continued progress and improved performance.

• 4:01 AMYahoo Sports — Trail Blazers Have Every Reason to Be Better Than Last Season