Portland Trail Blazers Roster 2021: A Deep Dive

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Alright, Blazers fans, let's take a trip down memory lane and dissect the Portland Trail Blazers roster from 2021. It was a season filled with hopes, dreams, and, of course, the rollercoaster ride we've come to expect from our beloved team. Understanding the players, their roles, and how they fit together is key to appreciating that year's journey. So, grab your favorite Blazers gear, and let’s get started!

Point Guards

The engine of any good basketball team starts with its point guard, and in 2021, the Blazers had a couple of notable names running the show.

Damian Lillard: Ah, Dame! What can we say that hasn't already been said? In 2021, Lillard was, as always, the heart and soul of the team. His unbelievable scoring ability, clutch performances, and leadership were instrumental in driving the Blazers forward. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a playmaker, a leader, and the face of the franchise. Lillard's impact extended beyond the court, inspiring fans and teammates alike with his unwavering dedication and loyalty to Portland. His ability to hit those deep, improbable shots became his trademark, striking fear into opponents and electrifying the Moda Center. Beyond the stats, Lillard's presence brought a unique swagger and confidence to the team, setting the tone for their competitive spirit. He was the guy you wanted with the ball in his hands when the game was on the line, and more often than not, he delivered. His influence on the Blazers' performance and morale was undeniable, making him the undisputed leader both on and off the court. For the 2021 season, Lillard continued to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest Blazers of all time.
Anfernee Simons: Back then, Simons was still developing, showing flashes of the brilliance we see today. In 2021, he provided a spark off the bench with his scoring ability and athleticism. Anfernee was like the instant energy boost the Blazers needed when the starters took a breather. He could heat up in a hurry, knocking down threes and driving to the basket with impressive speed. While he was still refining his game and learning the nuances of being a consistent contributor, his potential was undeniable. Fans loved his fearless attitude and the excitement he brought to the court whenever he checked in. He showed glimpses of the star he would become, making 2021 a crucial year in his development. The experience he gained that season, playing alongside veterans like Lillard and McCollum, was invaluable. It helped shape his understanding of the game and prepared him for the bigger roles he would later assume. Anfernee's growth throughout the 2021 season was a testament to his hard work and dedication, making him an important piece of the Blazers' future.

Shooting Guards

Alongside the point guards, the shooting guards brought essential scoring and defensive capabilities.

CJ McCollum: Dame's backcourt partner in crime, CJ, was a consistent scoring threat and a reliable playmaker. His ability to create his own shot and knock down tough jumpers made him a vital part of the Blazers' offense. CJ was more than just a scorer, though. His basketball IQ was off the charts, and he had a knack for making smart decisions with the ball in his hands. He complemented Lillard perfectly, providing a secondary scoring option that defenses had to respect. His smooth offensive game and clutch performances made him a fan favorite in Portland. In 2021, CJ continued to showcase his skills as one of the league's premier shooting guards. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure were invaluable to the Blazers' success. He was a leader on and off the court, setting an example with his work ethic and professionalism. His partnership with Lillard formed one of the most dynamic backcourts in the NBA, capable of lighting up the scoreboard on any given night. CJ's impact extended beyond scoring; he was also a capable defender and a willing passer, making him a well-rounded player who contributed in multiple ways.
Gary Trent Jr.: Before his trade, Trent Jr. provided valuable minutes with his scoring punch and defensive intensity. He was a sparkplug off the bench, capable of getting hot in a hurry. Gary brought a toughness and energy to the team that was contagious. He wasn't afraid to take big shots, and he often delivered, providing a much-needed boost to the Blazers' offense. While his time in Portland was relatively short, he made a lasting impression with his hustle and determination. In 2021, he showcased his potential as a future star, demonstrating his ability to score from anywhere on the court. His defensive tenacity was also a welcome addition, making him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. Although he would later move on to other teams, his contributions during his time with the Blazers were appreciated by fans and teammates alike. Gary's time in Portland helped him develop into the player he is today, and his impact on the team during the 2021 season was significant.

Small Forwards

The small forwards on the 2021 roster brought versatility and defensive presence to the team.

Robert Covington: Acquired to bolster the Blazers' defense, Covington brought his 3-and-D skillset to Portland. His ability to knock down threes and guard multiple positions made him a valuable addition to the starting lineup. Robert was the kind of player who did all the little things that don't always show up in the box score. His defensive versatility allowed the Blazers to switch matchups and disrupt opposing offenses. He was also a smart and unselfish player, always making the right play for the team. His presence on the court provided a sense of stability and experience, making him a valuable asset to the Blazers. In 2021, Covington continued to be a reliable contributor, showcasing his skills as one of the league's premier 3-and-D players. His ability to space the floor and defend at a high level made him an ideal fit alongside Lillard and McCollum. His impact extended beyond his individual performance; he also helped to elevate the play of his teammates. Covington's presence on the Blazers' roster provided a much-needed boost to their defensive capabilities and overall competitiveness.
Derrick Jones Jr.: Known for his athleticism and defensive potential, Jones Jr. provided energy and hustle off the bench. He was a high-flyer who could disrupt opponents with his length and quickness. Derrick was a raw talent with tremendous upside, and the Blazers hoped to unlock his full potential. His athleticism was undeniable, and he often wowed fans with his acrobatic dunks and highlight-reel plays. While he was still developing his offensive game, his defensive capabilities were already evident. He had the ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes, making him a valuable asset on that end of the floor. In 2021, Jones Jr. showed flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his potential to become a key contributor for the Blazers. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he brought a spark to the team whenever he stepped on the court. Although his time in Portland was relatively short, he made a positive impression with his athleticism and defensive prowess.

Power Forwards

The power forward position in 2021 featured a mix of veterans and developing talents.

Carmelo Anthony: A scoring legend, Melo provided instant offense off the bench. His ability to still get buckets was a valuable asset for the Blazers. Even in the later stages of his career, Carmelo could still fill it up with the best of them. His offensive repertoire was vast, and he had a knack for finding ways to score in any situation. He provided a much-needed scoring punch off the bench, giving the Blazers a reliable option when the starters needed a breather. His experience and leadership were also valuable assets, helping to guide the younger players on the team. In 2021, Anthony continued to defy expectations, proving that he could still contribute at a high level. His ability to score in bunches and draw fouls made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. He embraced his role as a sixth man and became a valuable part of the Blazers' rotation. Carmelo's presence on the team added a sense of star power and experience, making him a fan favorite in Portland.
Nassir Little: A young and developing player, Little showed promise with his athleticism and defensive potential. He was raw but had the potential to become a valuable contributor. Nassir was like a ball of energy on the court, always hustling and giving his all. His athleticism was undeniable, and he had the potential to become a lockdown defender. While he was still learning the nuances of the game, his work ethic and determination were evident. The Blazers saw him as a long-term project and were patient with his development. In 2021, Little showed flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his potential to become a key contributor for the team. His defensive intensity and willingness to learn made him a valuable asset, and the Blazers were excited about his future.

Centers

Anchoring the paint, the centers on the 2021 Blazers roster provided rebounding, defense, and interior scoring.

Jusuf Nurkić: When healthy, Nurkic was a dominant force in the paint. His rebounding, scoring, and passing made him a key part of the Blazers' offense. Jusuf was the Blazers' enforcer, a big man who could do it all. He was a dominant rebounder, a skilled scorer, and a surprisingly good passer. When he was healthy and engaged, he could be a game-changer for the Blazers. His presence in the paint made it difficult for opponents to score, and his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting made him a versatile offensive threat. In 2021, Nurkic battled injuries but still managed to make a significant impact when he was on the court. His rebounding and scoring were crucial to the Blazers' success, and his chemistry with Lillard and McCollum was undeniable. When he was at his best, Nurkic was one of the most dominant centers in the league.
Enes Kanter (Freedom): A rebounding machine, Kanter provided valuable minutes off the bench with his scoring and physicality. Enes was a force on the offensive glass, a relentless rebounder who always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. His scoring ability around the basket made him a valuable asset off the bench, and his physicality added a toughness to the Blazers' frontcourt. He was a fan favorite in Portland, known for his infectious energy and positive attitude. In 2021, Kanter continued to excel as a rebounder and scorer, providing a much-needed boost to the Blazers' second unit. His ability to grab offensive rebounds created second-chance opportunities for the team, and his scoring in the paint made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Kanter's contributions were crucial to the Blazers' success, and his presence on the team was appreciated by fans and teammates alike.

Coaching Staff

Of course, no team is complete without its coaching staff. In 2021, the Blazers were led by Terry Stotts, who aimed to guide the team to success with his strategic approach.

Terry Stotts: A seasoned coach, Stotts brought his offensive expertise and experience to the Blazers. He was known for his ability to develop players and create a positive team environment. Terry had a long and successful tenure with the Blazers, leading them to multiple playoff appearances. His offensive schemes were innovative and effective, and he had a knack for getting the most out of his players. He was respected by his players and colleagues alike, and his contributions to the Blazers' success were undeniable. In 2021, Stotts continued to guide the team with his steady hand, but the season ultimately fell short of expectations, leading to his departure. Despite the disappointing ending, Stotts left a lasting legacy in Portland, and his contributions to the franchise will not be forgotten.

So, there you have it, guys! A detailed look back at the Portland Trail Blazers roster from 2021. It was a team with talent, potential, and a never-say-die attitude. While they didn't reach the ultimate goal, the memories and moments from that season are still cherished by Blazers fans everywhere. Remember, it's not just about the wins and losses; it's about the journey and the players who represent our city with pride. Go Blazers!