Trail Blazers Roster 2016: A Look Back

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 39 views

Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Trail Blazers roster of 2016. This was a team that defied expectations and made a surprising run in the playoffs. For those of us who followed the NBA back then, it was a season filled with excitement and hope. The 2015-2016 Portland Trail Blazers were a team that surprised everyone. After losing four of their five starters from the previous season, most analysts predicted they would be among the worst teams in the league. However, led by the dynamic duo of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, the Blazers not only made the playoffs but also won a series against the Los Angeles Clippers. This roster was a mix of young talent and experienced veterans, all coming together to create a memorable season. The journey of this team was nothing short of remarkable, showcasing resilience, teamwork, and the emergence of future stars. Let's dive into the specifics of that roster and see where those players are now.

The Dynamic Duo: Lillard and McCollum

When discussing the 2016 Trail Blazers, you absolutely have to start with Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum. These two guards formed one of the most explosive backcourts in the NBA.

Damian Lillard: Lillard was the undisputed leader of the team. In the 2015-2016 season, he averaged 25.1 points and 6.8 assists per game. His clutch performances and ability to take over games made him a fan favorite and a player to watch. Lillard's leadership extended beyond the court, setting the tone for the team's work ethic and determination. He was the heart and soul of the Blazers, driving their success with his scoring prowess and playmaking skills. Even back then, you could see the superstar potential in Dame, and he's certainly lived up to it. His loyalty to Portland has only solidified his place in the city's basketball lore. Off the court, Lillard's community involvement and genuine personality made him a beloved figure. He wasn't just a basketball player; he was a symbol of Portland's spirit. His impact on the team and the city cannot be overstated, making him a true icon. Lillard's dedication to improving his game each season has been a testament to his character. He consistently added new dimensions to his skill set, making him an even more dangerous player. His ability to create his own shot, his deep range, and his court vision made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Lillard's influence on the team's offensive strategy was immense, and his presence alone elevated the play of his teammates.
C.J. McCollum: McCollum was the perfect complement to Lillard. As the season progressed, McCollum's scoring ability and versatility became increasingly important. He averaged 20.8 points per game and provided a reliable second option on offense. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to create his own shot made him a difficult matchup for defenders. McCollum's development into a star was a key factor in the Blazers' success. His chemistry with Lillard was evident, as they often took turns leading the offense and making crucial plays down the stretch. McCollum's dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of improvement were admired by teammates and coaches alike. He worked tirelessly on his game, honing his skills and expanding his repertoire. His ability to score in a variety of ways made him a valuable asset to the team. McCollum's impact extended beyond his scoring. He was also a capable playmaker and a willing defender, contributing in multiple facets of the game. His versatility allowed the Blazers to deploy different lineups and adjust their strategies as needed. McCollum's presence on the court brought a sense of stability and confidence to the team. His calm demeanor and unwavering focus helped to keep the team grounded, even in the face of adversity.

Key Role Players

Beyond the star power of Lillard and McCollum, the 2016 Trail Blazers roster had several key role players who contributed significantly to their success.

Al-Farouq Aminu: Aminu was the team's primary defensive stopper. His length, athleticism, and tenacity made him a valuable asset on that end of the floor. He also contributed on offense with his ability to hit the occasional three-pointer and grab offensive rebounds. Aminu's presence in the starting lineup provided the Blazers with a much-needed defensive presence. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses was crucial to the team's success. Aminu's contributions often went unnoticed, but his impact on the game was undeniable. His hustle, determination, and willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable asset to the team. Aminu's defensive prowess was not limited to individual matchups. He was also a smart and disciplined team defender, always aware of his rotations and responsibilities. His ability to anticipate plays and make timely steals and blocks was a key component of the Blazers' defensive strategy. Aminu's work ethic and professionalism set a positive example for his teammates. He was always prepared to play his role and contribute in any way possible. His dedication to the team's success made him a respected and admired figure in the locker room.
Mason Plumlee: Plumlee was the team's starting center and a key contributor on both ends of the floor. His athleticism, passing ability, and rebounding made him a valuable asset. He averaged 9.1 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Plumlee's ability to run the floor and finish around the basket made him a perfect fit for the Blazers' fast-paced offense. His passing skills were also a valuable asset, allowing him to facilitate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates. Plumlee's rebounding was crucial to the team's success, as he often battled against bigger and stronger opponents for position. His ability to secure offensive rebounds gave the Blazers second-chance opportunities and helped to extend possessions. Plumlee's energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he always played with a high level of intensity. His willingness to do the dirty work and sacrifice his body for the team made him a fan favorite. Plumlee's contributions often went unnoticed, but his impact on the game was undeniable. His versatility and all-around game made him a valuable asset to the team. He was always prepared to play his role and contribute in any way possible.
Allen Crabbe: Crabbe was a key player off the bench, providing instant offense with his shooting ability. He averaged 10.3 points per game and shot 39.5% from three-point range. Crabbe's ability to space the floor and knock down open shots made him a valuable asset to the team's offense. His presence on the court forced opposing defenses to respect the three-point line, opening up driving lanes for Lillard and McCollum. Crabbe's confidence and swagger made him a spark plug off the bench. He was never afraid to take a big shot, and he often came through in the clutch. Crabbe's work ethic and dedication to his craft were evident in his improved shooting numbers. He spent countless hours in the gym, honing his skills and perfecting his technique. Crabbe's contributions often went unnoticed, but his impact on the game was undeniable. His shooting ability and offensive versatility made him a valuable asset to the team. He was always prepared to play his role and contribute in any way possible. Crabbe's presence on the team provided a sense of stability and confidence. His calm demeanor and unwavering focus helped to keep the team grounded, even in the face of adversity.

Other Notable Players

Beyond the core players mentioned above, the 2016 Trail Blazers roster also included several other notable players who contributed in various ways.

Ed Davis: Davis provided valuable minutes off the bench with his rebounding and defensive presence.
Gerald Henderson: Henderson was a veteran presence who provided scoring and experience.
Moe Harkless: Harkless showed flashes of potential with his athleticism and versatility.
Brian Roberts: Roberts was a reliable backup point guard who provided stability.
Chris Kaman: Kaman was a veteran center who provided size and experience.

Where Are They Now?

It's been several years since the 2016 season, so let's catch up on where some of these players are now. Damian Lillard is still the face of the Trail Blazers, continuing to build his legacy in Portland. C.J. McCollum was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, where he continues to be a key player. Al-Farouq Aminu has bounced around the league, playing for several different teams. Mason Plumlee has also played for multiple teams and remains a solid NBA player. Allen Crabbe's career has been hampered by injuries, but he has still managed to contribute when healthy. Ed Davis has continued to be a valuable role player, providing rebounding and defense. Gerald Henderson has since retired from the NBA. Moe Harkless has played for several teams and remains a versatile player. Brian Roberts has played overseas and in the G League. Chris Kaman has also retired from the NBA.

Conclusion

The 2016 Trail Blazers roster was a special group of players who exceeded expectations and created a memorable season. Led by the dynamic duo of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum, and supported by a cast of valuable role players, this team captured the hearts of fans in Portland and beyond. Their resilience, teamwork, and determination made them a team to be admired. Though time has passed and the roster has changed, the memories of that 2016 season will forever be etched in the minds of Trail Blazers fans. It was a season of hope, excitement, and the emergence of future stars. The 2016 Trail Blazers proved that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible. This roster was a testament to the power of teamwork and the importance of believing in yourself. As we look back on that season, we can appreciate the journey of these players and the impact they had on the city of Portland. The 2016 Trail Blazers will always be remembered as a team that defied the odds and made a lasting impression on the NBA. So here's to the 2016 Trail Blazers – a team that showed us what it means to believe. Guys, it was a fun ride, wasn't it?