The "copy homework" of the reconstruction of the West? The Trail Blazers bet on the new star in China, hoping to replicate the myth of the Rockets rise

On July 4, the Trail Blazers team reporter Reese Kunz threw out a major point of view: Portland is following the trajectory of Houston and writing its own reconstruction script, and the inside star Yang Hansen from China may become the winner of this big game. The Rockets' counterattack path is a textbook reconstruction. After a darkest moment of 22 wins and 60 losses, they first spent $128.5 million to sign VanVleet and locked Dillon Brooks for $80 million. The veteran's experience quickly activated the young core, and the team's record soared to 41 wins and 41 losses the following year. Now it has become a favorite to win the Western Conference due to Durant's joining.

Trail Blazers are clearly benchmarking this successful template. The recent operation of using Anthony Simmons for Ju Holiday is a replica of the Rockets' strategy of "veterans leading new players". If the former All-Star guard can replicate Van Vleet's tandem effect, it will undoubtedly accelerate the team's return to the playoffs.

But what really caused heated discussion was the expectations of the pioneers for Yang Hansen. This inside player, who is named "China Jokic", is being compared with Rockets core Shin Kyung. Although his strength is still far from Shin Kyung's current strength, the Trail Blazers are willing to bet on draft picks for him, which shows their recognition of his potential. After all, at a time when three-pointers are weak and offensively sluggish, an inside player with support may become the key to activate his talent in the backcourt.

From hoarding talents to polishing lineup adaptability, Trail Blazers have entered the deep waters of reconstruction. If Yang Hansen can grow into a qualified offensive hub, the team will not only make up for the shortcomings, but also be able to replicate the Rockets' rise path of "leveraging the veteran first and then relying on the new star". When Holiday's experience meets the impact of young players, perhaps next season, we can witness the rebirth of this Northwest Powerhouse.