Zach Lowe and Kirk Goldsberry Discuss Controversial All-Rookie Selections

PORTLAND, Ore. — Zach Lowe has returned to discuss the NBA‘s All-Rookie Teams with Kirk Goldsberry on The Zach Lowe Show, where the duo shared differing opinions on the top players of the 2023-24 draft class.

Among the highlights was their unanimous selection of Donovan Clingan for the All-Rookie Second Team, despite the controversy surrounding his inclusion. Lowe pointed out the competitive nature of this year’s rookie class, stating, “The lack of separation between these players makes it a tough call.”

Goldsberry praised Clingan’s standout skill: rim protection. “He has one thing he does really well, and it’s really important in the game of basketball. His rim protection is noteworthy,” Goldsberry said. “Portland had flashes of competence throughout the season, and he was a part of that. He can rebound the basketball — he’s a presence. But ultimately, it’s blocked shots and rim protection.”

Lowe echoed Goldsberry’s sentiments, noting, “That’s exactly my reasoning. He does one thing already really well, and it’s protect the basket.” This defensive prowess positions Clingan as a key player for the Portland Trail Blazers, possibly establishing him as the best defensive anchor in his rookie class.

Statistics further strengthen Clingan’s case. When he is the closest defender, opponents are shooting 49 percent at the rim, a number that mirrors the defensive metrics of four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert. Despite being a rookie, Clingan’s contributions are undeniable, averaging 6.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks, even while playing less than 20 minutes per game.

The impact of Clingan’s elite rim protection has come at a pivotal time for Portland, as the team’s defense surged, ranking sixth in defensive rating (112.9) since the All-Star break. The change from Deandre Ayton to Clingan has been significant, transforming the Blazers into the tallest team in the league this season.

Billups, now facing an uncertain future, entered this season under scrutiny. After a tumultuous period marked by a series of tanking seasons, Billups’ fate appeared sealed heading into the 2024-25 season. However, the Blazers’ front office unexpectedly extended his contract, making it valid until the end of the 2027-28 season.

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the decision was polarizing among fans, who were divided on whether to keep Billups or seek a more experienced coach to steer the Blazers back into playoff contention. Some pointed to instances of embarrassing losses, including a significant 45-point defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies, as necessary justification for a coaching change. Yet, Billups managed to retain his position after a surprising midseason turnaround, which played a crucial role in shaping the team’s performance.

As reported by Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the Blazers showed impressive resilience with a 22-18 record in the second half of the season, entering their final game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Executives noted the remarkable development of younger players like Deni Avdija and Toumani Camara, which contributed to their late-season success.

Billups’ coaching strategies, including benching players and fostering accountability, particularly on defense, have lifted the Blazers into playoff contention discussions. As the team reflects on their performance, the clarity of their identity is starting to resemble Billups’ successful Detroit Pistons, who prioritized a strong defensive presence over individual superstars.

The successful collaboration between Billups and the team’s strategy demonstrates a commitment to building a defensive-minded roster, which general manager Joe Cronin has emphasized throughout the rebuilding process.