Blazer Focused: Recent Episodes
The Oregonian/OregonLive
Portland Trail Blazers news, interviews and analysis from The Oregonian/OregonLive's Aaron Fentress and co-host Craig Birnbach.
It’s been a month since Damian Lillard demanded a trade to Miami and so far a moving truck hasn’t been in required. Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian/OregonLive and Craig Birnbach are joined by Bill Oram, sports columnist for OregonLive on the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast. The trio get into the weeds of what’s going on with this ongoing drama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With no movement on the trade front, the Blazer Focused podcast with Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach examines what it would mean to bring back Damian Lillard, where the Blazers roster (minus Lillard) ranks in the West and Anfernee Simons’ murky future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Cronin addressed the ongoing situation with Damian Lillard and talked about the team’s future, which is built around Henderson. The Blazer Focused podcast reacts to the slow trade negotiations and the rookie’s short debut. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The superstar guard has demanded a trade to the Heat which impacts the Blazers’ negotiating power. There is real belief that if Lillard doesn’t get what he wants, the entire situation could become volatile. Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian/OregonLive and Craig Birnbach examine all of the angles involving this complex situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard has requested a trade after the franchise failed to improve the roster enough to his liking. Who is to blame? Where will Lillard land? And where do the Blazers go from here? The Blazer Focused podcast crew of Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian/OregonLive and Craig Birnbach dive into all of that and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Trail Blazers rejected all trade proposals seeking the No. 3 pick in Thursday’s NBA draft to ultimately selected 6-foot-2 point guard Scoot Henderson. But how does that help Damian Lillard’s quest to bring a championship to Portland? Not at all says the Blazer Focused podcast crew of Aaron Fentress (The Oregonian/OregonLive) and Craig Birnbach. They believe it’s just about time to trade Lillard and completely start over. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Trail Blazers promised Damian Lillard and he fans that they would do whatever it takes to acquire impact veterans to improve the roster. But as of Wednesday evening, it appeared that the Blazers were set to draft and keep Scoot Henderson (G League Ignite). How, if at all, would that help Lillard? The Oregonian/OregonLive’s Aaron Fentress is joined by Craig Birnbach to discuss the many options in play heading into Thursday’s NBA draft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazers, having trouble finding takers for the No. 3 pick in the NBA draft, could very well end up keeping the player they select. The Blazer Focused podcast crew of Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian/OregonLive and Craig Birnbach discusses what it would mean to add another young player to the roster and whether Damian Lillard would stick around to play with yet another young talent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers lost back-to-back games to the LA Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers to fall to 11-11 on the season.The Blazer Focused podcast, supported by ZoomCare (Beyond Better™ Healthcare) goes over what’s going wrong with this team that has now lose eight of their last 10 games.The podcast is hosted by Aaron Fentress, who covers the team for The Oregonian/OregonLive, and Craig Birnbach.On this week’s show:Blazers collapse? Concerning or injury-related?What’s wrong with the defense?Shaedon Sharpe’s powerful dunk at the Lakers was something he said he needed. And the Blazers certainly need more bench scoring from him.No Look Pass.Subscribe to Blazer Focused anywhere you listen to podcasts.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers entered Wednesday having lost four out of their last five games and were without Damian Lillard, out for at least a week because of a second lower-leg injury. The Blazer Focused podcast, supported by ZoomCare (Beyond Better™ Healthcare) goes over what has gone wrong for the Blazers (10-7) since that eventful 4-2 road trip that left them at 9-4. The podcast is hosted by Aaron Fentress, who covers the team for The Oregonian/OregonLive, and Craig Birnbach. On this week’s show:
Crashing back to earth with close losses, poor defense and recurring turnover issues.
How concerning is Lillard’s second injury?
Defensive regression and turnovers.
Shaedon Sharpe’s ups and downs.
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The Portland Trail Blazers went 4-2 on their recent trip and return home tied for the best record in the Western Conference at 9-4. The Blazer Focused podcast, supported by ZoomCare (Beyond Better™ Healthcare) goes through the five observations on the trip made by Aaron Fentress, who covers the team for The Oregonian/OregonLive. He is joined by podcast producer, Andrew Theen. Craig Birnbach is on vacation and unavailable to keep Fentress in check this week. Theen stands no chance. On this week’s show:
Team chemistry is legit.
The defense is for real.
Jerami Grant playing like an All-Star.
The depth has proven reliable.
Clutch factor shines.
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Kelly AuCoin, the actor and Portland Trail Blazers super fan, joined the Blazer Focused podcast this week. Blazer Focused is supported by ZoomCare and hosted by Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach. On this week's show:
How Kelly convinced Craig to come to Portland back in the day.
Kelly is a total diehard fan
Projects he is working on, including a show on former LA Clippers owner, Donald Sterling.
His expectations for the rest of the season.
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The Blazers are sitting tied atop the Western Conference standings. But, Dame is out and a big road trip looms. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron and Craig discuss all that and more. They hit on: -How concerned should we be about Dame's injury? -Shaedon Sharpe, of course -The brutal road trip -Fact or Fentress Blazer Focused is supported by ZoomCare. Subscribe to Blazer Focused anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers are red, hot and rollin. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, which is sponsored by ZoomCare, Aaron and Craig go back to their season previews. Lo and behold, they had a great formula for Blazers success. They hit on: - Dame's return to Dameness - Jerami Grant doing it all - Nurk is Nurk - Josh Hart and Anfernee Simons Subscribe to Blazer Focused anywhere you listen to podcasts to catch new episodes each week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The NBA season is finally back! On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron and Craig talk about what a realistic season looks like for the Trail Blazers. Will this team make the playoffs, and what are the playoffs in the age of the play-in tournament? They discussed:
Nassir Little's extremely team-friendly deal
What it would take for this team to underperform
What it would take for the Blazers to beat expectations
How the West shakes out
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The Portland Trail Blazers ended the preseason at 1-4 with zero wins against NBA teams. It wasn’t pretty but is the sky falling? The Blazer Focused podcast, sponsored by ZoomCare, provides some hope and answers during its latest episode with hosts, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach. TOPICS:
Just how bad was it?
Deep look, with grades, at where the Blazers stand in key areas: Is Damian Lillard all the way back? Does Jusuf Nurkic look like a $70 million man? How Jerami Grant is living up to the hype? Anfernee Simons’ preseason struggles. That defense. Yikes.
Will Gary Payton II be a game changer?
Fact or Fentress: Schedule related.
No-Look pass surprise question?
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The Portland Trail Blazers are off and running in the preseason and the Blazer Focused podcast, sponsored by ZoomCare, dissected the goings on with the team through two games. Hosts Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach hit on several pressing topics in this latest episode:
Damian Lillard looks right.
Rookie Shaedon Sharpe struggling.
Jerami Grant is having a tremendous impact.
Anfernee Simons off to a slow start.
Competition at small forward.
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Portland Trail Blazers training camp is underway in Santa Barbara, Calif., and the Blazer Focused podcast, sponsored by ZoomCare, is on the case. Hosts Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach hit on several pressing topics:
Sloppy play with high energy mark the first two days.
Rookie Shaedon Sharpe turning heads.
Competition at small forward.
Jerami Grant and Jusuf Nurkic learning each other’s games.
What we hope to see during three preseason games next week.
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The season from hell is in the rearview mirror. Now, what exactly do we make of the Portland Trail Blazers? On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron and Craig set the stage for training camp next week. They talk about the major themes and issues facing the Blazers. They hit on:
Back to the old Dame?
What exactly will Jerami Grant's role be?
Nurk still in the crosshairs
Ant's time to shine
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Welcome to this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast with Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach. Here are some highlights from this week’s show:
Training camp moves to Santa Barbara. Good move?
Gary Payton II says he chose Portland for the money. Big deal?
Donovan Mitchell leaves the Western Conference and the LA Lakers add Patrick Beverley. Do those moves matter to the Blazers?
How does the pairing of Damian Lillard and Jerami Grant rank among the league’s best duos?
Blazers add size with 7-footer Olivier Sarr. Will he market he final roster?
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Welcome to this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast with Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach. Here are some highlights from this week’s show:
First podcast in a few weeks, what have the hosts been up to? One saw the Yankees play in NY and the other went on college tours with his daughter and retired from roller coaster.
To travel the broadcast team or not to travel the broadcast team? That was the question finally settled by the Blazers.
The Blazers’ schedule is out. Let’s take a look.
Damian Lillard vs. Kyrie Irving. This became a thing this week for no real particular reason.
Fan question of the week.
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Damian Lillard is officially 32-years-old and likely still basking in the glow of the two-year $122 million extension. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron and Craig discuss that deal a bit more in depth, Jabari Walker turning all sorts of heads and much more. They also hit on: · The ripple effect of the Dame deal on the books · How effective could Jabari Walker really be? · Keon Johnson talk. What is he? · Other Vegas takeaways Subscribe to Blazer Focused anywhere you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Damian Lillard has no problem getting in touch with Jody Allen. He’ll also have no problem paying the bills anytime soon. The franchise superstar directly refuted a NY Post assertion from this week that Lillard tried, and failed to reach chair Jody Allen. He also signed a two-year $122 million contract extension, ending the speculation of when that would occur. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach discuss that tabloid drama, plus they weighed in on the Shaedon Sharpe debut. They also discussed: -Summer League takeaways -Gary Payton II -Nurk and Ant -Grant is here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazers offseason of intrigue started with a bang. Jerami Grant is headed to Portland and the mysterious Shaedon Sharpe is also headed westward. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron and Craig discuss what to make of the trade, the draft and much more. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: · Shaedon Sharpe is a mystery, and a big swing · Jerami Grant heads home · Jabari Walker thoughts Subscribe to Blazer Focused on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever you listen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The NBA draft is one week away. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach reveal their mock drafts, debate potential viable trades, some of the recent workouts and much more. They discussed: · John Collins and OG Anunoby talk · Pie in the sky trades · Mock drafts for Aaron, Craig, Andrew Subscribe to Blazer Focused on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever you listen Interested in sponsoring this show or any of our other podcasts? Email advertise@oregonian.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode of the Blazer Focused podcast was already underway with discussion about Pistons forward and potential offseason target Jerami Grant and what to do with the number seven overall pick in this year's NBA draft. Then news intervened. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused pod, Aaron and Craig react in real time to the ESPN report that Phil Knight and Alan Smolinisky have submitted a more than $2 billion bid to buy the Portland Trail Blazers. That part of the conversation starts around the 16-minute mark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You win some, you lose some. Now the pressure is on for Joe Cronin and the Portland Trail Blazers’ front office. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach discuss the disappointing (but mathematically spot-on) NBA Draft lottery and what comes next for the franchise.
Here are some highlights from this week’s show: · Fentress describes the scene from Chicago · Dame’s reaction and the viral video · An epic Kevin Durant rant · Assessing the summer, future draft picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Starting Tuesday, Blazers fans will suddenly become big fans of the ol’ bouncing Ping-Pong balls. The NBA’s draft lottery is Tuesday and the franchise’s short-term future may hang in the balance. Or is that hyperbole? On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach discuss the lottery odds, Joe Cronin officially getting the general manager gig and which players from last year’s roster are here to stay.
Highlights: · When is the Cronin honeymoon over? · Envisioning lottery success/failure · Aaron goes to Chicago · Roster reviews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After years of toiling away in apparent obscurity in Portland, CJ McCollum enjoyed rave reviews during his first-round exit as a New Orleans Pelicans guard. Kinda funny, isn’t it? On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach discuss CJ’s exit, the fawning national media attention, losing the second draft pick the looming draft lottery and much more Here are some highlights from this week’s show: · CJ’s performance was very CJ · Draft pick – trade it or keep it? · Coach Edniesha Curry’s influence · Theen’s No-Look Passes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazers bid adieu to a dreadful season and gave a lovely goodbye to the legendary broadcaster and ambassador, Bill Schonely (aka The Schonz) in recent days. Now the hard work begins. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach dissect the exit interviews and look ahead to the critical offseason. They hit on:
What Cronin and Billups had to say
Thoughts on The Schonz's legacy
Whether a big fish is coming in the offseason
Fact or Fentress
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CJ McCollum sure felt the love Wednesday night from the Rip City faithful. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach recap the overwhelming standing ovation fans gave to McCollum in his first game back at the Moda Center since the trade. They put the moment in perspective and discusses its meaning and much more. They also hit on: · CJ’s place in franchise history · The incredible tanking exposition continues · Players to watch in the Final Four · Fact or Fentress/Theen’s No-Look Passes
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There’s not a ton to enjoy in the end of this NBA season here in Portland, but Aaron Fentress went deep with a three-part story looking at Anfernee Simons’ childhood and rise. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Fentress and Craig Birnbach dove into that feature story and analyzed the latest mock drafts. They hit on: - Fentress called for the tank but is complaining about how hard the tank is hitting. What gives? - Inside notes from the Simons story - Looking at the mock draft. Who makes sense? - Fact or Fentress/Theen’s No-Look Passes See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The tank is on in spectacular fashion, but what do the young Blazers get out of the beatdowns? That's a point of discussion on the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast. Aaron and Craig break down the young players, their performances so far and whether it's time to shut Ant down. Also, Aaron rains on many parades. They discussed:
What is Ant getting out of this at this point?
Can we learn anything about Chauncey Billups with this roster?
CJ Elleby...NBA player? Or soon-to-be overseas player?
Just how far can the Blazers fall?
Fact or Fentress/Theen's No-Look Passes
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Jusuf Nurkic is out for a month (at least) and the suddenly quite youthful Blazers were blasted off the court by the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron and Craig discuss the reemergence of the presumptive narrative that a high draft pick is unavoidable. Well, it sure is. Here are some highlights from this week’s show:
Why the Nurk injury may guarantee his return
Who else may come down with a minor injury?
Thoughts on Keon Johnson's debut
Delving into the Dame/Draymond interview
Fact or Fentress/Theen's No-Look Passes
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It's a question that would have been ludicrous a few weeks ago: Will the Trail Blazers lose again? It's sort of a joke, but the Blazers are in a groove now and the tank appears to be in jeopardy. What's it all mean? On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron and Craig discuss the Red Hot & Rollin' squad, the draft implications and much more. They discussed:
Will Dame come back this season? Should he?
Anfernee Simons is a star
Are Winslow and Hart here to stay?
No denying that Billups has done a great job in recent games.
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Now Blazer fans have nothing to do but wait -- for the Ping-Pong balls, for the draft, and for free agency. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach look back at the riveting week that was in Rip City. They discussed: · Joe Cronin and Chauncey Billups' comments · Josh Hart's arrival · What actual options exist in free agency · Fact or Fentress/Theen's No-Look Passes
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The Dame and CJ era is officially over in Rip City. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach dissect the two big deals in the past few days and give their takes on the overall direction of the franchise. They discussed: · The Norman Powell and Robert Covington move · Josh Hart and Keon Johnson · McCollum with the Pels · How Cronin is trying to straddle blow it up with rebuild and reload See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers were steamrolled by the woeful Oklahoma City Thunder this week despite the Thunder being without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Tough nights happen in the NBA, poor shooting nights do as well, but it was a rough performance. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Craig Birnbach discuss the pre-trade deadline doldrums and what to make of Anfernee Simons’ (gasp) bad game. They discussed: · Why covering this team right now is a challenge · Trade deadline rumors · Will Anfernee wear down carrying such heavy minutes? · Regular features: Fact or Fentress and Theen’s No Look Passes See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The injury bug has, at this point, burrowed itself into the Portland Trail Blazers roster. Nassir Little is likely out for the season. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress is joined by his new co-host, Craig Birnbach. You may recognize Craig from his many years as a sports broadcaster at KATU-TV. He now works part-time as a studio host for the Trail Blazers during road games Craig and Aaron discussed: · Little’s loss and his emergence this season · The return of Good Nurk · Why tanking ain’t easy · Introducing some new segments (Fact or Fentress and Theen's No-Look Pass)
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Portland’s iron man, Damian Lillard, is going under the knife Thursday. While this news has seemingly been coming for days now, it's officially here. What does it all mean for Rip City? On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, beat reporter Aaron Fentress is joined by former Blazers radio play-by-play guy Brian Wheeler to discuss the Lillard news, the ownership question marks and much more. They discussed: · Dame’s abdomen · What Joe Cronin might do before the trade deadline · The state of the franchise in general · Anfernee Simons and Nassir Little See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Portland’s season from hell continues, but the Trail Blazers have a prime opportunity amid the chaos. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, reporter Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman agreed (gasp!) that this brutal season offers a chance the successful franchise hasn’t often had because of the brilliance of one Damian Lamonte Ollie Lillard Sr.: Make the draft lottery. On this episode they discussed:
Is it even possible to save the season?
Whether Dame is ready to sit now, given the ab injury’s seriousness
The benefits of losing
Trade options
Anfernee and Nassir’s ongoing development
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It's not a ton of fun to watch Portland Trail Blazers basketball at the moment. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Aron Yohannes discuss the rough times in Rip City and what could happen to lead the team out of it. They hit on:
Recapping some of the rough times
Lillard’s struggles continue
A killer road schedule looms
Trade talk. Who might be on the move?
What players could move the needle to keep Dame happy
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Portland Trail Blazers fans heard from Joe Cronin, the franchise's interim general manager, for the first time this week. It felt like a new era, but the team is still riddled with question marks and is at the center of trade rumors across the NBA. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron Fentress and Andrew Theen discuss Cronin's debut, what it felt and sounded like and what it may mean for the franchise. They discussed:
Cronin's easy style and gentle demeanor
His chances to land the job full-time
What moves may be possible
The key upcoming home stretch and Dame's health
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Neil Olshey, the architect of the Portland Trail Blazers for the past decade, was fired Friday. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, beat writer Aaron Fentress is joined by Joe Freeman and Andrew Theen to break down the latest dramatic news in Rip City, which came about a month after news first broke about an investigation into Olshey's workplace conduct. They discussed:
Thoughts on the firing
Olshey's legacy
What this means for the roster/team
Potential replacements
How this rocky start compares to past years
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A longtime Portland reporter who covered the Trail Blazers for decades has a new biography about one of the franchise’s most popular players. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress chats with longtime Portland journalist Kerry Eggers. Fentress talked to Eggers about his biography, “Jerome Kersey: Overcoming the Odds” and much more. They discussed: · How Jerome became such a good rebounder · His upbringing and college career · The reporting process · What kept Jerome in Portland · Thoughts on the current squad See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazers are accustomed to tough starts to the season during the Lillard era, but this season is unlikely any other because of the coaching change, Dame's struggles and other factors. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, podcasts editor Andrew Theen is joined by Mike Acker, a freelance contributor to The Oregonian/OregonLive. They discussed:
The up and down start
Recapping the thrilling Bulls game
Nance and Nurk and the small-ball five possibilities
Nas getting to make mistakes in crunch time
The tough schedule ahead
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On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, beat writer Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discussed the investigation into alleged workplace misconduct by Neil Olshey, team president of basketball operations. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Craig Birnbach has an NCAA championship ring. Now he wants some bigger hardware [kidding, sorta]. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress is joined by one of the newest members of the Trail Blazers broadcasting team. Craig Birnbach is no stranger to anyone who has been around the NBA or sports media in the past decade and change. Birnbach worked at KATU-TV as a sports broadcaster for 12 years and has now joined the Trail Blazers broadcasting team. On this episode, Aaron and Craig discussed: · Craig’s career path, and basketball bonafides · The state of the Blazers right now · Ant and Nas · Pumping the breaks on the concern wagon See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers have been up front so far that the season would likely include some up and downs as the team adjusted to a new coach, a new defensive system and tweaks on the offensive side. That’s been true to form. On this week’s episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Andrew Theen discuss the first four games of the season and snap takeaways from the 2-2 split. Here are some highlights from this week’s show: - Dame’s struggles and CJ’s brilliance - Anfernee breaking out, Nassir’s strong start - Nurk’s up and down start See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The NBA season kicks off Oct. 20 and there is drama galore: Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, more super teams. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, Aaron Fentress is joined by colleague Aron Yohannes (a Milwaukee Bucks superfan) to discuss the storylines ahead. They discussed the Blazers' ceiling with a new coach and some new pieces and storylines across the Association. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Oregonian/OregonLive's Aaron Fentress and Andrew Theen discuss the Trail Blazers' preseason opener. Them chatted about Jusuf Nurkic shooting more threes, Anfernee Simons running the second unit and the defensive struggles. They also discussed Nassir Little, Dame off ball action and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers held their media day this week, and all the talking points were strong. This is a team focused on defense, where roles will be accepted and leaders will be held responsible. On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, beat writer Aaron Fentress is joined by Joe Freeman to discuss what to make of media day, training camp and the storylines to come. They hit on Larry Nance Jr., accountability, Dame's strongest statements yet that he's still all in on Rip City, CJ's maturity and understanding of the business vis a vis trade talk and much more. [Disclaimer: We had a technical error. You'll hear Fentress coming through Freeman's track when there's cross-talk. Apologies for the error, but the conversation is great!] See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Basketball time is nearly here! On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Andrew Theen discuss some of the key storylines surrounding the team as it approaches training camp, the first preseason game and media day. They discussed Norman Powell, Jusuf Nurkic, the offensive adjustments, taking better threes and that pesky defense. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's officially the Dog Days of Summer, but there's still plenty to talk about when it comes to the Portland Trail Blazers. On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Andrew Theen discuss the every-swirling Ben Simmons trade rumors given his recent comments about training camp. They also discussed the Larry Nance Jr. trade, Dame's wedding, CJ's exciting baby news and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, beat writer Aaron Fentress is joined by podcasts editor Andrew Theen. They discussed Aaron's recent pieces examining Chauncey Billups' coaching philosophy as he sees it and Norman Powell's decision to return to Portland and why he feels so comfortable here. We also discussed Cody Zeller's potential impact and what Billups likes about him, how the offense could be tweaked to increase ball movement and the defensive changes to come. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss the offseason free agency signings. They discussed why the Norman Powell signing is being overlooked in Rip City in terms of its significance, what the other moves mean to the bench's defense and why Blazer fans should be optimistic -- sorta -- headed into the season. They also talked about Damian Lillard's thoughts, Neil Olshey and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the latest episode of Blazer Focused, reporter Aaron Fentress talks to The Oregonian/OregonLive's resident Bucks superfan, Aron Yohannes, about his beloved Bucks. Yohannes, born and raised in Milwaukee, was back home to witness the team's first title in 50 years. What can the Trail Blazers learn from that squad's success? What can Rip City make of the roster building? Also, will Team USA get it done? Is this Dream Team headed for a bust? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Damian Lillard spoke publicly Thursday for the first time since the Trail Blazers hired Chauncey Billups. Lillard addressed media members during a brief availability at Team USA practice. On this episode of Blazer Focused, beat writer Aaron Fentress is joined by podcasts editor Andrew Theen. They discussed Dame's comments, what to make of some of the more ludicrous trade proposals, whether Dame squashed those rumors entirely and his comments on playing for Team USA. They also looked forward to the Tokyo Olympics and chatted about much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the latest episode of the Blazer Focused podcast, Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss Tuesday's news conference introducing Chauncey Billups, the fallout from that event, whether he can win over a segment of fans, Lillard's uneasy feelings, what type of coach Billups may be and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Oregonian/OregonLive's Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss Terry Stotts' legacy in Portland, who might succeed him, what the team needs to do during the offseason and much much more.
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The Oregonian/OregonLive's Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman unpack Damian Lillard's monstrous and historic performance in Game 5 of the Blazers first round series with the Denver Nuggets and also preview Game 6. They talked about Jusuf Nurkic's inconsistencies, the bench's inability to show up when it matters so far and what they expect for the rest of the series. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Blazers television analyst Lamar Hurd joins the Blazer Focused podcast to offer his views on the team's playoff run, how it navigated a bumpy season, Damian Lillard's greatness and Terry Stotts as a coach. Also, we dove into his career path, where his sense of fashion comes from, the challenges of broadcasting during a pandemic and much more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Oregonian's Trail Blazer reporters Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss the team's latest news on this episode of Blazer Focused. Today they discuss the Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets in an NBA playoffs preview.
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Examining the loss at Phoenix including coach Terry Stotts challenging the foul call on Norman Powell. What does the loss mean? How the Blazers can recover.
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The Blazers have won 8 of 9 with three games remaining but still must prove that they can defeat elite teams.
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Blazers save season with 5-1 road trip. Fans are back! Is Terry Stotts' job in jeopardy? Blazers gear up for final stretch. Carmelo Anthony makes history. Kevin Love to Portland? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Actor Kelly AuCoin talks about his passion for the Trail Blazers, which began as a small child, and gives his opinions on the current state of the franchise as well as its history including whom he believes to be the greatest Blazer ever. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazers lost a winnable game at Charlotte and now return home to face the Clippers and Nuggets without Damian Lillard and Jusuf Nurkic. Can they recover from their problems or are they in trouble? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazers have lost five straight against losing teams, but a close loss to Boston and Jusuf Nurkic starting to come alive offered hope for a turnaround. Also, just how bad is this team’s personnel on defense? And are Lillard’s MVP chances fading fast? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers suffered yet another blowout loss to a good team on Tuesday with first-place Utah Jazz up next. Will Portland's defense ever come around? What did Norman Powell say about the team's defensive effort? How can the Blazers counter opponents when they double-team Damian Lillard? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jusuf Nurkic is out for the Clippers game. Also, the Blazers were throttled by the taller, longer Bucks on Friday and on Tuesday face the equally long and athletic Clippers. Can the Blazers' three-guard lineup get the job done against bigger teams? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss the Portland Trail Blazers' retooled lineup as the team prepares for the tough final third of the season. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaron is joined by Aron Yohannes to discuss how new Portland Trail Blazers guard Norman Powell fits with the Blazers after they acquired him from Toronto for Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood. Plus, Jusuf Nurkic is set to return Friday. Finally, we take a look at the flurry of activity around the NBA prior to the trade deadline. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Damian Lillard is one of the leading candidates for the NBA MVP award. What must he and the Blazers do for him to win it, and does geography matter as some suggest? Also, look at the Dallas loss and what it means. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Portland Trail Blazers guard CJ McCollum is set to return after injury. Then, the Portland Trail Blazers lost to a team with the worst record in the NBA while gearing up for some tough days ahead — what does it mean? And, what to make of Nassir Little's play? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman hand out midseason awards, recap the NBA All-Star Game and ponder the Portland Trail Blazers’ chances in the second half of the season. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aron Yohannes joins the pod to discuss Damian Lillard backing out of the NBA Three-Point contest, whether the NBA is big enough for two 'Melos', how the Blazers need wins over Western Conference contenders and — what will Gary Trent Jr.'s role be once McCollum returns? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Portland Trail Blazers reporters Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman take a look at the team one week before the NBA All-Star break. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers have won four consecutive games leading to Damian Lillard's name being thrown around more often as a possible MVP candidate. But what do the analytic numbers say? Also, Atlanta forward John Collins is reportedly on the trade block. Should the Blazers be interested? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Trail Blazers went 3-3 on a tough road trip despite numerous injuries and in the process saw the growth of several young players. All told, the Blazers at 12-10 should feel positive about their situation moving forward. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Portland Trail Blazers are 2-2 on their road trip with three games remaining while dealing with numerous injuries. Is coach Terry Stotts to blame for the team's poor defense? Helping the cause has been the play of young players, Anfernee Simons and Nassir Little. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Blazers lose big at the Bucks, Nassir Little has a big game, Defensive issues continue. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The banged up Portland Trail Blazers begin a six-game trip Thursday and while the defense is still a mess, the Blazers have received a spark from Anfernee Simons who just had the best back-to-back games of his career. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Blazers injuries adding up and Blazers blow shot at win before heading out on road trip See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Days after losing Jusuf Nurkic with a broken right wrist, the Blazers have lost CJ McCollum with a broken left foot. Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss how the Blazers can navigate the next few weeks without two star players. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman discuss the impact of Trail Blazers center Jusuf Nurkic being sidelined with a fractured wrist. They break down how team could respond, lineup adjustments, whether Harry Giles III will step up, should the Blazers pursue a trade, and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaron Fentress addresses the situation from Jan. 13, when Portland star Damian Lillard called him out for daring to suggest that another backcourt tandem could be superior to Lillard and CJ McCollum. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nurkic injured, Blazers schedule, Blazers heroes vs. Toronto See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 3-4 Blazers are off to a disappointing start, compounded by Tuesday's loss at home to Chicago. Aaron Fentress and Joe Freeman examine where the Blazers sit after seven games while examining the team's defense, the play of Jusuf Nurkic, whether coach Terry Stotts is to blame and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Blazers upset at home by Bulls; injury updates for Hood and Little See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Connor Letourneau, Golden State Warriors beat writer for the San Francisco Chronicle, joins Aaron Fentress to preview the Trail Blazers' two-game set at Golden State. Plus, recap of the Blazers' loss Wednesday to the Los Angeles Clippers and a take on the Zach Collins injury situation. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aaron Fentress takes a look at the Blazers big win over the Lakers, how the defense has turned the corner the past two games and the mini-controversy surrounding the inconsistent minutes played thus far by Gary Trent Jr. Plus, a little debate with Oregon women’s basketball coach Kelly Graves on Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Carmelo Anthony misses road trip, Blazers upset Lakers, James Harden trade rumors, Gary Trent Jr. lights up Lakers See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Derrick Jones Jr. returns from back contusion. Blazers' defense in need of fine-tuning. Blazers don't offer contract extension to Zach Collins. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Blazer Focused podcast with Aaron Fentress makes its debut with special guest Jordan Kent, television play-by-pay announcer for the Trail Blazers. They discussed Kent’s days at Oregon, where Aaron covered him; their time together hosting "Talkin’ Ducks"; Kent’s journey to his new gig; and his feelings about the new-look Blazers. Then, The Oregonian/OregonLive’s Joe Freeman offers his season predictions. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Aaron Fentress, Portland Trail Blazers beat reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, for all the latest news, analysis and interviews that matter to Rip City. Subscribe now so you don't miss a single episode. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts, Stitcher, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices