Portland Trail Blazers’ Center Shows Improved Strength and Form

The Portland Trail Blazers’ young center, Donovan Clingan, has garnered significant attention for his impressive offseason improvements. Team members and management regard him as a pivotal element for the team’s future. Teammate Kris Murray praised Clingan, believing he will be instrumental this season. His journey reflects significant growth, particularly in developing his physical conditioning and overall gameplay.

Clingan’s Notable Transformation

Donovan Clingan, at 7-foot-2, has shaped up remarkably after a challenging rookie season. He earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors last year, particularly excelling in the final two months of the season. With the 2025-26 season approaching, expectations are high for Clingan, with Coach Chauncey Billups expressing confidence in his development.

Overcoming Early Challenges

• At training camp last year, Clingan struggled to maintain stamina during scrimmages.
• He often found himself exhausted, unable to keep up with the fast pace of the game.

Fast forward to his current training regimen, and Clingan has significantly improved his endurance. He now competes fiercely during practices, continuously encouraging his teammates to elevate their game. Clingan notes that he recently endured practice stretches of up to 11 minutes without needing a break, something that seemed impossible just a year ago.

Offseason Work Ethic

Clingan embraced a rigorous training schedule to enhance his physical abilities. He primarily focused on playing basketball, participating in volunteer practices and pick-up games. His dedication resulted in weight management, as he now weighs approximately 280 pounds, showcasing increased muscle strength.

Impressive Performance Metrics

• During his rookie season, Clingan averaged 8.8 points and 9.9 rebounds.
• He ranked fifth in the NBA with 1.6 blocks per game.
• Clingan displayed a shooting percentage of 55.6% from the field.

Impact on Team Dynamics

General Manager Joe Cronin highlighted Clingan’s critical role in the team’s defensive strategy. Teammates describe him as a “safety net” due to his ability to deter opposing players from driving into the paint. Even his limited playing time last season demonstrated his significant impact on the court.

Developing Brotherhood with New Teammates

Clingan’s positive attitude towards competition is noteworthy, especially as the team has added new talent. He expressed excitement about the potential synergy with fellow big man Yang Hansen. This proactive approach of mentoring his younger teammate illustrates Clingan’s growth not just as a player, but also as a leader within the squad.

As the Blazers gear up for their exhibition games, Clingan continues to exhibit an eagerness to contribute. His recent performance included scoring four points, grabbing seven rebounds, and showcasing his defensive prowess. With high expectations resting on him, Clingan is determined to make a meaningful impact in the upcoming season.

Looking Ahead

As the new season approaches, the expectations for Donovan Clingan resonate throughout the Portland Trail Blazers organization. His growth both physically and mentally promises to enhance team performance. With the support of his coaches and teammates, Clingan is ready to embrace the challenges ahead and contribute to a successful season.