The Portland Trail Blazers CenterDonovan Clingan came back just in time after missing five games due to a sprained left ankle.
Without the services of backup Robert Williams III (hand) and starting center Deandre Ayton (knee), the Blazers played the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night to wrap up a three-game trip.
Clingan led the Blazers to a 102-97 victory with four points, 13 rebounds, four assists, and four blocked shots in just his third start since Nov. 23.
Clingan told reporters inside the Spectrum Center that he was feeling okay. I obviously needed some time to catch my breath. At first, I felt a little worn out.
On a minutes restriction, Clingan completed all of his statistical damage in slightly over 17 minutes.
Blazers coach Chauncey Billups informed reporters that he had excellent minutes. I only wish there had been more. In my opinion, he blocked shots and controlled his minutes on the glass. Down there, he had a presence.
Despite missing 13 games due to injuries to his knee and ankle, Clingan has had a successful first season. Although he has only scored 5.6 points per game, he averages 14 rebounds and 3.3 blocks per game in 36 minutes.
During the second half of a basketball game at Spectrum Center on January 24, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Donovan Clingan #23 of the Portland Trail Blazers blocks a shot made by Vasilije Micic #22 of the Charlotte Hornets. (Image courtesy of Getty Images/David Jensen)Getty Pictures
Clingan’s three swats in the first quarter essentially matched his average for blocks.
Billups stated, “I thought he set the tone for us tonight, and that’s his gift.”
According to Billups, Clingan’s presence enabled the squad to play aggressive perimeter defense, which helped the Hornets shoot just 37.6% from the field. That is tied for the season’s third-lowest allowed.
Billups stated, “He gives us so much confidence to know that we can pressure people.” He’ll try to make up for all the mistakes we make by trying to be so aggressive once we realize he’s back there.
Clingan’s defensive presence was noticed, according to Blazers player Anferne Simons, who finished first on the squad with 27 points.
Simons told reporters, “Donovan played great.” shots at the rim that change. simply having a low-key presence. We only need him to be that. Play hard. Grab some offensive rebounds. Get some setbacks. merely doing out the grunt task.
Clingan says it’s a terrific night when he influences the Blazers’ defense during the victory.
He answered, “That’s what I love.” I adore defense. I enjoy guarding. All I want is to be visible in the paint. I’d like to change the shots. Blocking shots is what I want to do. My goal is to prevent individuals from getting injections.
The Blazers, who are 3-0 on the road, will host seven games at home starting on Sunday at 3 p.m. against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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