Portland Trail Blazers 2014-15 Season Preview, Predictions

The most significant subtraction from the Portland Trail Blazers this offseason was the loss of scoring guard Mo Williams. Although the Blazers have a pretty formidable backcourt in Damian Lillard and Wesley Mathews, Williams' ability to play both guard positions could hurt Portland's depth.

During the offseason the Blazers signed former Lakers teammates Steve Blake and Chris Kaman as free agents. The Blazers might've overpaid for Kaman's services, but depth in the post was a necessity. Will Kaman and Blake be able to contribute in the Northwest?

Damian Lillard (PG), Wesley Matthews (SG), Nicolas Batum (SF), LaMarcus Aldridge (PF), Robin Lopez (C). Expect the Blazers to start the same five players from last season. Despite the Blazers' lack of bench depth, Lopez staying in the game might be one of the most important pieces to the Blazers' success. If Lopez can stay healthy and out of foul trouble, the Blazers should be much improved.

With Mo Williams gone, expect to see more of second-year shooting guard CJ McCollum off the bench. In five preseason games, McCollum averaged 10.6 PPG and 2.2 APG while shooting 46 percent from the field. If Myers Leonard and Thomas Robinson can both continue to improve in the post the Blazers will definitely surprise their doubters.

Although the Blazers didn't change their roster too drastically during the offseason, it's kind of difficult envisioning them improving from the 52-30 record of last season. If Nicolas Batum can remain healthy and become the consistent third scorer the Blazers need, they should be able to duplicate last season's success.

Prediction: 49-33