The strong start of the Blazers despite offensive and off-the-field problems, analyzed

Despite Shaedon Sharpe's struggles early in the season, the Portland Trail Blazers have made a promising start thanks to a revitalized offense under the new system of Tiago Splitter. The team, which many expected to be limited offensively, is finding ways to compete and gather wins, showing that they can produce results beyond individual performances.

Before the 2025–26 season began, doubts about Portland's offensive capabilities were widespread. The roster seemed designed to excel defensively but not to score consistently. In this context, Sharpe was expected to lead the attack, though his numbers have not lived up to expectations: he averages 16.8 points per game with just 30.7% shooting from the field, a performance well below his preseason showing.

Nevertheless, the results are encouraging. With a record of 2–2 and an average of 120.5 points per night, the Blazers have proven that they can produce without relying on a single star. This collective offense has become one of the positive surprises of the season's start, suggesting that the team could seriously contend for a play-in spot if they maintain their momentum.

Since Tiago Splitter took over as interim head coach, Portland has shown a clearer identity. In just three games under his leadership, the coach has successfully gotten his players to adapt to a system based on constant movement and defensive balance. One of his key adjustments has been using Jerami Grant as a valuable sixth man, allowing him to lead the second unit without losing prominence.

The starting five —composed of Jrue Holiday, Sharpe, Toumani Camara, Deni Avdija, and Donovan Clingan— offers solidity on both ends of the court. Splitter has implemented early and flexible rotations to keep everyone fresh. Moreover, he has frequently used a small-ball lineup, subbing in Grant for Clingan to increase pace and create more space.

Despite lacking an offensive superstar, Portland's ability to score by committee is becoming its main strength. Avdija, Grant, and Sharpe share the scoring load, resulting in a more dynamic and unpredictable offense.

Sharpe's Case: Talent, Frustration, and Pending Adjustment

Sharpe remains the player with the highest offensive potential on the team, but his performance has been marked by inefficiency. His 30.7% field goal shooting and 16.7% from three-point range reveal a crisis of confidence. Splitter and his coaching staff are working to help the shooting guard regain his aggressiveness and attack the rim more, avoiding settling for low-percentage shots or step-backs.

The plan involves transforming Sharpe into an aggressive driver, leveraging his athleticism and ability to draw contact in the paint. Additionally, the return of Damian Lillard to the squad could be a turning point. Lillard was his mentor during the 2022–23 season, when Sharpe had his most efficient year (47.2% shooting and 36% from three). Reclaiming that form could make all the difference for Portland.

If there's one thing that characterizes these Blazers, it's their defensive commitment. Avdija and Sharpe excel in transition, while Holiday and Camara provide perimeter consistency. Clingan, on the other hand, protects the rim effectively. This structure allows Portland to turn defense into offense, a trend that Splitter aims to continue developing.

Although the ideal model remains that of the Oklahoma City Thunder, known for their modern defensive systems, the Blazers appear to have the foundation to build their own elite defense. The challenge lies in balancing that defensive level with an offense still evolving, a task that will depend on both player maturity and the coach's ability to make adjustments on the fly.

The Trail Blazers seem to be forging a new identity under Splitter's leadership. Without a dominant player but with a committed team, the signs of growth on both ends of the court are evident. If Sharpe can rediscover his top form and the defense maintains its intensity, Portland could shift from an enigma to one of the most challenging teams in the Western Conference.

The project is still in its early stages, but the pillars —energy, defense, and balance— are already firmly in place.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El buen arranque de los Blazers a pesar de los problemas ofensivos y extradeportivos, analizado