The Blazers started a younger lineup, benching veterans Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons for opening night.

The Portland Trail Blazers have started Jrue Holiday, Shaedon Sharpe, Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan for opening night, benching veteran Jerami Grant and veteran Anfernee Simons despite their contracts and past roles. The move signals a shift toward a younger, faster rotation under coach Chauncey Billups, who emphasized depth and fit over experience. Grant, averaging 14.4 points last season, was a long-time starter but saw his playing time reduced due to declining shooting efficiency. Simons, who recently signed a new extension, will come off the bench for the first time since 2020. The team plans a 10-man rotation to manage fatigue from their high-paced style, with Matisse Thybulle returning from injury and rookie Yang Hansen expected to back up the center.