National Basketball Association

Meyers Leonard Set to Make Preseason Debut Tonight

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Meyers Leonard will likely return tonight versus the Lakers

As the Trail Blazers prepare for the third of seven preseason games tonight, they will receive a large boost – A seven foot tall boost to be exact. Meyers Leonard will make his return to the court. Leonard participated fully in practice the last couple days and is reportedly set to make his debut. He has been sidelined with a separated should since last March.

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It is unclear how many minutes Head Coach Terry Stotts will let Leonard play tonight, but he hinted at easing him into the rotation. The strong play of Noah Vonleh coupled with the return of Leonard presents a challenge for Stotts in providing ample minutes to each frontcourt player. It’s a good problem to have – much better than the other way around.

A healthy Leonard makes the Trail Blazers roster much more flexible. He gives Stotts’ multiple options to play big or small. If Leonard regains his shooting form, his ability to stretch the defense is a game changer. Players who can defend the five position and hit three pointers do not grow on trees. There is a reason an oft injured player like Leonard still garnered a large payday this offseason.

It truly is hard to comprehend a deeper Trail Blazers roster than their current situation. Usually, Preseason games are not the most interesting two hours of entertainment. However, Stotts has a plethora of options to tinker with in the rotation that hardcore fans of Portland should be watching intently.