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After an impressive, perhaps unexpected rookie campaign last season,Portland Trail Blazersbig manZach Collinsis picking right up where he left off to begin his second season. He has played excellent defense, including registering six blocks against theLos Angeles Lakerson opening night, and has also found early success on the offensive end of the court. Those around the organization have taken notice.
CJ McCollumcalled the 20-year old “fearless”, according toCBS Sports’ Reid Forgrave:
“He’s fearless,” Blazers guardCJ McCollumtold me about his second-year teammate. “He’s not afraid to get hit in the face and break his nose. A lot of it is heart. A lot of it is timing and understanding basketball, spacing and angles. He’s doing what we expected, just a great rim protector.”
Damian Lillardalso chimed in, telling Forgrave:
“He just has a really good understanding for defense and positioning himself,”Damian Lillard告诉我。“当你有时间,你可以be the type of rim protector that he is. The timing is natural, how he was just timing people’s shots. But some of those shots [in the Lakers opener] he wouldn’t have been in position to block last year. Just seeing actions and seeing stuff develop and positioning himself to make those plays is the difference between this year and last year.”
CoachTerry Stottssees great potential in Zach’s offensive game, as well:
“He’ll extend his range and be a more consistent shooter from the perimeter,” Blazers head coach Terry Stotts said. “He’ll be able to take advantage of the mismatches in the post. He’ll be able to offensive rebound. He’s got a good sense of passing the ball already.”
The future is looking bright for the Las Vegas native, who will turn 21 next month. He’s averaging eight points and 5.3 rebounds, in addition to 2.7 blocks in just over 20 minutes per contest to begin the season. He looks to continue his stellar start as the team hits the road for a four-game trip beginning Tuesday night in Orlando.
You can read Forgrave’s full articlehere.