Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Mo Williams has finally found a home for next season. While many thought he could wind up back with the Utah Jazz, the Portland Trail Blazers found themselves into the picture and brought Williams in to backup Damian Lillard.
At 30 years old, Williams is a tenured NBA veteran with plenty of experience. This will bode well for a rising star like Lillard, a sophomore in the upcoming season. Having a guy like Williams behind Lillard to spell him gives the Blazers somewhat of a security blanket during those times.
Though plenty thought rookie C.J. McCollum could back up Lillard, it looks like he will mostly play shooting guard alongside Wesley Matthews, thus giving Williams the backup job.
Williams wanted to find a home during the offseason in a place that would allow him to be a starting point guard. He was confident in his ability to get the job done still at his age, but the market simply wasn’t there.
With the Jazz last season, Williams averaged 12.9 points, 6.2 assists and a steal per game while shooting the ball at 43 percent. His shooting is not excellent, but his ability to get his teammates involved will prove to be a valuable tool for the Blazers.
Even if Portland wants to play Williams and Lillard at the same time, that could wind up being an interesting few minutes. While Lillard can attack the basket at times, there’s still Williams on the floor to help facilitate the offense.
If anything, this signing gives them even more depth and experience, allowing them to be more flexible with their rotation. It was a good signing overall, and the Blazers should be happy they made it happen.
Ryan Heckman is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
