NBA: 8 players to surprise in the playoffs

Apr 18, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) shoots over Milwaukee Bucks guard Michael Carter-Williams (5) during the third quarter in game one of the first round of the 2015 NBA Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 22, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum (88) takes a jump shot against the Memphis Grizzlies at Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports /

Nicolas Batum will return to form this postseason after a poor regular season.

For a team that won their division in the highly competitive Western Conference and secured home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs, the Portland Trail Blazers sure seemed to have a miserable season. A killer shooting season from Wes Matthews was cut short by a gruesome torn Achilles, and the team desperately misses his perimeter defense. Damian Lillard’s offensive explosions are exciting, but not consistent, whereas his atrocious defense is consistent. He spent a good portion of the season alienating fans by declaring rather unendearingly that he was entitled to a spot in the All-Star Game.

Perhaps the worst for the Blazers has been the play of the long-limbed Frenchman Nicolas Batum. He has dropped down to just over 9 points per game, his shooting percentage just ended at a flat 40% without a decimal to spare, and his efficiency, normally sterling, has dropped off when the Blazers relied on him the most.

LaMarcus Aldridge has been his usual steady self, but against the Memphis Grizzlies and their punishing frontcourt, his positive contributions on the Blazers’ success will be neutralized. Damian Lillard will have his explosive nights, but Mike Conley will eat him alive on the other end.

As the Grizz slow down the game, Batum’s length will allow him to get into position to finish at the basket while providing lockdown perimeter defense. If he can improve his outside shooting stroke, the Blazers will be in a position to win what should be a tight series.

One underrated aspect of Batum’s game that has actually improved compared to other seasons has been his rebounding. If the Blazers have any hope to win the series, they must at least keep the rebounding battle close to even. Matched up against Tony Allen, Batum will have a tougher time than normal fighting for rebounds, but his improvement there could help turn the tide in the rebound battle. With the game slowing down, having an advantage in possessions will be a huge victory.

Next: Andre Iguodala

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