We squeezed as much information as we possibly could out of the first three preseason games and came up pretty excited about some new offensive wrinkles. The bigs are taking--and making--mid range shots. The team is operating at a faster pace than last year, using nearly 11 more possessions per game. They are relying on fewer pick-and-rolls and relying on more transition and spot up shooting. With the ball in his hands Evan Turner is running the point from on the block. And of course, we can't get enough Swanigan, Swanigan and more Caleb Swanigan!

Highlights

2:05 As excited as Dan will be all season.

3:45 Dan loves Swanigan who provides more options than anyone else on the floor not named Lillard, McCollum or Nurkic

6:20 How is Swanigan like Zach Randolph or Draymond Green?

9:55 Tara things Zach Collins shows promise and she promises to carry the torch for him this season

13:55 Dame and CJ were ready for the season to start yesterday

15:05 Nurkic has a jump shot

16:15 Attitude is everything

20:05 Dan predicts Caleb Swanigan is going to lead the Trail Blazers in technical fouls

24:00 Trail Blazers have picked up the pace, at least during pre-season

26:35 Should we worry about how many fouls Nurkic is committing?

28:40 Nurkic offence, getting the ball at the post #feetwork, why he can’t finish

33:55 Back-up ball-handling Evan Turner is hanging out on the post--and it looks like its working

34:45 Andre Miller talk!

40:25 Is Turner getting so much time as back up PG because Shabazz is out, because Crabbe is gone, or better utilization?

41:35 How Portland’s offense is different this preseason from last year. Right now they are going with more spot up and transition plays than pick and roll (their usual bread and butter)

43:55 Efforts to get their shot off faster

49:10 New offensive wrinkles that have guys taking shots from different spots on the floor

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Follow us on Twitter @blazersedge @DMarang @tcbbiggsSubscribe to the Blazer's Edge Podcast via iTunes and now Google Play.We are part of the Almighty Baller Radio Network. Check out our podcast and all the other NBA podcasts at almightyballer.com.Dan and Tara will be at the Blazer’s Edge Opening Night Viewing Party with Peter Sampson of Blazer’s Edge Radio. Stop by and say “Hi”!

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