Blazer coach to rotate players for home opener

By Associated Press Published: Nov 6, 2007 at 2:43 PM PST
Blazer coach to rotate players for home opener
In this file photo, Portland Trail Blazers LaMarcus Aldridge (12) and Martell Webster (8) battle under the basket with Los Angeles Clippers Elton Brand, center, during a game last year.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - Portland Trail Blazers coach Nate McMillan has yet to settle on a playing rotation.

When McMillan left Houston following Saturday's 89-80 loss to the Rockets, he admitted he was strongly considering changing his starting lineup before Wednesday's home opener against New Orleans.

It is almost certain Steve Blake will replace the struggling Jarrett Jack at point guard. Also, it appears Channing Frye could replace Joel Przybilla at center, even though Przybilla has been solid.

So the players await today's practice with a curious eye, wondering what will be McMillan's next move. Brandon Roy says he figured McMillan would often tinker with his lineups.

Roy said, "Coach is looking for something specific, and, until he finds it, he's going to continue to rotate guys."

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)