The Portland Trail Blazers are finally starting to look like the team they envisioned at the beginning of the season. And it’s all thanks to the return of a key player who’s been sorely missed. Jerami Grant made his long-awaited comeback on Thursday night, and the Blazers celebrated with a commanding 117-101 victory over the Atlanta Hawks at the Moda Center. But here’s where it gets interesting: Grant’s return wasn’t just about the stats—though his 16 points, three assists, and two blocks off the bench were certainly impressive. It was about what his presence means for a team that’s been battling injuries all season. After limping through the first half of the regular season with the second-most injuries in the NBA, the Blazers are finally regaining their health, and it’s starting to show on the court.
Grant’s return was met with a standing ovation from the Moda Center crowd, and he didn’t disappoint. Just over a minute after checking in, he burst through traffic for a tough driving layup, showcasing the tenacity that makes him such a valuable asset. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Grant admitted he’d be sore—not just the next morning, but that very night. And his performance reflected the rust of a month-long absence due to Achilles tendonitis. He missed three of his four three-point attempts, coughed up a turnover, and even airballed a short jumper. Yet, despite these hiccups, his impact was undeniable.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Grant’s return enough to propel the Blazers into playoff contention? While his presence undoubtedly strengthens the lineup, the team still faces stiff competition in a crowded Western Conference. And this is the part most people miss: the Blazers’ bench, which outscored Atlanta’s reserves 55-34, is quietly becoming a game-changer. Shaedon Sharpe’s 24 points, nine rebounds, and five assists were a highlight, but it was the contributions of players like Rayan Rupert (13 points, three steals) and Caleb Love (12 points, three rebounds) that truly stood out. With Deni Avdija’s return on the horizon, the Blazers could finally field their full roster—a lineup they’ve rarely had the chance to deploy this season.
Acting coach Tiago Splitter even got to use something he hasn’t had in recent memory: a veteran closing lineup featuring Grant, Jrue Holiday, Sharpe, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan. It felt like a glimpse of what this team could be when healthy. “He’s a special player and a big part of this team,” Clingan said of Grant. “His activity, his knowledge—it’s important. He’s a vet in this league, and having that is big time for us.”
So, here’s the question: Can the Blazers sustain this momentum and make a late-season push? Or will their injury-plagued first half prove too much to overcome? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions.
