Evaluating the Blazers' Offseason Moves
Holy Backboard
In the 417th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the Portland Trail Blazers' offseason moves, analyzing trades, draft picks, and free-agent signings. Major talking points include the trade of Anfernee Simons for Jrue Holiday, the drafting of Yang Hansen, and the mid-level exception used to bring Damian Lillard back. They critique the overall strategy and ponder the team's future direction, emphasizing the importance of player development. The episode also features a segment where they build all-time NBA teams from a randomized list of franchises.
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Is now the right time for Dame’s return to Rip City?
Holy Backboard
Dustin and I discuss Damian Lillard's return to Portland. The pros, cons, the potential roster building, relationship building and the proper marketing
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Adios Ayton, Hello Holiday
Holy Backboard
In the 415th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the Portland Trail Blazers' offseason moves and provide an in-depth analysis of the team’s recent trades, draft picks, and contract negotiations. They analyze Joe Cronin's 'confusing and unexpected' summer, highlighting key trades like acquiring Jrue Holiday and moving Deandre Ayton. The podcast covers the drafting of Yang Hanson, Summer League expectations, and the importance of roster flexibility. They also consider the potential implications of Robert Williams' performance, the need for improved team...
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Perplexed in Portland: Blazers add Yang Hansen
Holy Backboard
In the 414th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, Dustin and Sage dive deep into the Portland Trail Blazers' choices during the 2025 NBA Draft. They discuss the controversial selection of Hansen Yang, the Blazers' strategy, and the implications for the team's future. The conversation spans various topics, including the perplexing direction of the Blazers' front office, the potential of their new picks, and the competitive landscape of the NBA. They also touch on standout performers and winners of the draft, as well as projections for the upcoming Summer League.
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Emergency Pod! Jrue Trade
Holy Backboard
Welcome to the 413th edition of the Holy Backboard Podcast! In this special emergency edition, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss the unexpected late-night trade of Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons and two second-round picks. They dive into the implications of Holiday's arrival for the Portland Trail Blazers, the impact on the team's defense, and how this move aligns with Portland's focus on two-way versatility. The episode also covers the potential changes in the Blazers' strategy for the upcoming NBA Draft and evaluates how the trade affects roster spots and player development. Please listen to...
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Future Friday: Rasheer Fleming
Holy Backboard
On the 412th episode of the Holy Backboard Podcast, hosts Dustin and Sage discuss Rasheer Fleming, a top NBA draft prospect from Saint Joseph's. They dive into his impressive physical tools, college statistics, and potential fit with the Portland Trailblazers. The conversation explores Fleming's defensive strengths, offensive role, and the importance of his development. The episode also covers the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft and the value of drafting players with high floors and potential. Join Dustin and Sage as they explain why Rasheer Fleming could be a standout pick for the Blazers.
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2025 Lottery Mock 3.0
Holy Backboard
Dustin and I work together to create a mock draft!
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Complementary Pieces: Koby Brea
Holy Backboard
Kobe Brea, a standout college basketball player known for his exceptional shooting skills. Hailing from the Bronx, New York, Brea played for Dayton before transferring to Kentucky. Despite testing poorly in physical metrics at the combine, his shooting remains unparalleled. He shot 43% from three-point range on six attempts per game, demonstrating versatility by excelling in catch-and-shoot situations and shooting off the dribble. I discuss his potential fit in the NBA, particularly with the Portland Trailblazers, emphasizing his shooting ability, intelligence, and supplementary skills like...
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Future Friday Cedric Coward
Holy Backboard
In this episode of Future Friday, Dillon and Dustin dive into one of the most intriguing prospects in the NBA Draft:Cedric Coward . Known as the “man of mystery,” Coward’s game sparks debate, with Dillon taking a more cautious stance on his potential, while Dustin sees high upside. Together, they break down: Coward’s biggest strengths and where he thrives on the court The key weaknesses that could impact his transition to the NBA How fit, role, and development could make or break his pro career This episode gives listeners a balanced, thoughtful look at one of the Draft’s...
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Complementary Pieces: Ryan Kalkbrenner
Holy Backboard
Dillon Sage discusses NBA draft prospect Ryan Kalkbrenner, a 7'2", 257-pound center from Creighton, ranked as the 32nd prospect and 50th center. Sage emphasizes the importance of understanding the current draft class's big talent, especially small ball fives, and highlights Ryan Kalkbrenner's potential as a platoon center for elite teams. Kalkbrenner's impressive hands, shot-blocking, and rebounding abilities make him a valuable role player, capable of providing solid minutes off the bench. Sage compares Cochran to players like Hassan Whiteside and Walker Kessler, noting his ability to block...
info_outlineDillon Sage presents an analysis of Egor Demin, a 6-foot-9 point guard/shooting guard from Moscow, Russia. Deadman has two years of high school basketball experience at the Moscow Basketball Academy and years of college basketball experience with BYU. Dillon looks at Demin's passing and shooting ability in different ways. Dillon recognizes that Demin can make complex passing plays, but he does mention that Demin struggles with making plays off the dribble and getting by defenders without a screen. Demin's shooting percentages are low, and Dillon believes they can improve if Demin takes fewer off-balance shots and less contested shots.