Blazers’ Ja Morant believes role with Damian Lillard could unlock Portland’s true potential

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Ja Morant‘s first game in a Portland Trail Blazers uniform was far from perfect, and he knows it. But after practice on Thursday, the star guard made it clear he sees a bigger picture forming alongside Damian Lillard.

Morant gave himself a harsh review of his performance in Wednesday’s 123-118 preseason win over the Golden State Warriors. In 19 minutes, he went 3-of-8 from the field and committed four turnovers.

“On a scale of one to ten, I would say probably a six and a half,” Morant said. “Definitely could have been better offensively. Going back and watching, I was a little passive. I just got to be more decisive when I have the ball.”

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Ja Morant, after practice today, discussed last night’s game:

– 6.5/10 for himself last night; could have been better offensively.

– Was told by his teammates he was passive and noticed it when he watched the film. Dame and the coaching staff are encouraging him to play more… pic.twitter.com/WENSjate1W

— Sahal Arwo (@ArwoNBA) October 8, 2026

The message from those around him is clear.  “Talking with the coaches last night, today, and then with Dame yesterday, they were telling me to stay aggressive,” Morant said. “Obviously, when I’m playing like me, it opens up a lot more on the floor for everybody else.”

Finding that balance is a new challenge for a player who sees himself as a facilitator first.

“It’s tough because I feel like I’m a natural point guard. I’m not selfish at all, so that’s definitely a tough part,” Morant said.

Morant also noted that it was his first game action since January, so he did not expect to be sharp right away. He said he is not worried.

The bigger picture is how he and Lillard can lift everyone around them. Deni Avdija led Portland with 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting in the opener, and Morant believes that kind of production will become routine.

“Me and Dame’s job is to continue to just make sure everything’s in the right place, everybody’s in the right spots in their strengths, and just let them go be them,” Morant said.

He also had high praise for young point guard Scoot Henderson. “He’s ready. He’s ready for sure,” Morant said.

Lillard, back in Portland after recovering from a torn Achilles, scored 15 points in his own return to the floor. For Morant, who arrived in a June trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, the fresh start has brought plenty of joy.

“I feel like everybody should be happy and have joy for a fresh start,” Morant said.

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