The play against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night by the Portland Trail Blazers was electrifying and a great play to close out the game. Something that the Portland Trail Blazers have had a hard time completing in close games. On Monday, the Trail Blazers played in front of a small crowd, and they didn’t let the Grizzlies’ recovery late in the game faze them. The constant play of defense and attack contributed to a must win. For the Trail Blazers to succeed, they must enlist the help of Nicolas Batum. The little Forward is playing with confidence and making good plays down the stretch. Especially plays like 3-pointers, dunks, steals, and block shots.

First, Nicolas Batum is from France and is considered one of the most talented young prospects in the NBA. Playing in the French basketball league has helped him a lot in his development. He would say that Nicolas is way ahead of some of the 21-year-olds in the NBA. At 6’8 and playing small forward, Nicholas is capable of shooting over smaller shooting guards and defending the best players on other teams. To illustrate this point, Nicolas hit four 3-pointers against Memphis and continues to show that he has great offensive talent when it counts. Although Batum has missed 45 games this season due to a shoulder injury. He is showing consistent stardom and impressing Coach McMillian with his performance.

Second, Batum will dig into opposing players when needed. In other words, Batum isn’t afraid to go to the hoop. It’s important for young players not to settle for jump shots all the time. It takes guts and strength to finish at the rim, and Batum will one day be one of the best. Batum usually does the dirty work, which many NBA players don’t want to fit into that category. Every team needs a player like Batum who is willing to do whatever it takes to win games. Batum reminds me a lot of Scottie Pippin, Dennis Rodman, Bruce Bowan and players who aren’t normally the center of attention, but are the glue of the base. However, Batum won the European Championship and was voted most valuable player on multiple teams. He’s a gem in the rough and ready to help the Blazers move forward for years to come.

Third, Batum has very long arms and is athletic. He has the ability to block shots and change the way teams play offense. For example, on Monday night, Mike Conley of the Memphis Grizzlies was on a fast attack and ready to score, but Batum came up and blocked the shot and stopped a significant score. He is very aggressive and begins to assert himself as a leader and an important small forward. The Blazers’ offense revolves around LaMarcus, Roy and O’den. However, Nicholas will have the opportunity to provide the necessary help and block certain star players.

Last but not least, Nicholas will help the Trail Blazers make it to the playoffs. His ability to score, block, steal, dunk and finish plays is a sought after asset. It’s refreshing to see young players who are unselfish and into themselves. I think Batum is a team player and is willing to listen to the coach. His performance against the Grizzlies is a reminder to the Trail Blazers that they have remarkable talent and please be willing to play him instead of sitting on the beach.

Please see the link below, regarding additional information or questions.

http://basketballandsports.blogspot.com/

dewayne n penney,

basketball fan