Blazers Shake Up Lineup: Reath Named Starting Center

The Portland Trail Blazers are shaking things up in their lineup as they take on the Los Angeles Clippers at home tonight. With star center Deandre Ayton sidelined due to an elbow injury, head coach Chauncey Billups has turned to Duop Reath to fill the void in the starting five.

Reath, a 26-year-old South Sudanese-Australian, has been a valuable role player off the bench for the Blazers this season, but this opportunity to start will be his biggest test yet. The 6'11" center has averaged 5.8 points and 4.2 rebounds in 14.6 minutes per game, showcasing his energy and athleticism on both ends of the floor.

While Reath may not be a household name, his teammates and coaches have expressed confidence in his abilities to step up and contribute in Ayton’s absence. “Duop has been putting in the work and he’s ready for this moment,” said Damian Lillard, the Blazers’ All-Star point guard. “We’re going to need him to bring that energy, grab some boards, and protect the paint.”

For Reath, this opportunity is a dream come true. Undrafted out of Florida Gulf Coast University in 2019, he has had to grind his way through the G-League and overseas stints before finally catching on with the Blazers last season. “I’ve been waiting for a chance like this my whole career,” Reath said. “I’m not going to take it for granted. I’ll give it everything I’ve got out there.”

The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, present a formidable challenge for the undermanned Blazers. However, Reath’s insertion into the starting lineup could provide a much-needed spark and a different look for the opposition to contend with.

Billups has been known for his creative lineup adjustments and willingness to give opportunities to players who have earned them. “Duop has put in the work, and he’s shown us he can contribute at this level,” the coach said. “We’re confident in his abilities, and we’re excited to see what he can do with an expanded role.”

As the Blazers look to stay in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race, the insertion of Reath into the starting lineup could prove to be a pivotal move. For the young center, this is his chance to shine on the big stage and prove that he belongs among the league’s elite.