Roy Explains Absence During National Anthem

Trail Blazers guard Brandon Roy stands by himself in the tunnel prior to games instead of being on the court during the National Anthem.

For the past two seasons, Roy has left the court before "The Star Spangled Banner" is performed.

Some fans have asked the Oregonian's John Canzano whether Roy is making a political statement, but Portland's star says he is not.

Roy, who says that he loves America, never really thought anything of it.

"It's not me doing some (star-treatment) thing," Roy said, "Kobe Bryant is out there for the anthem. It's just something I've done for the last two years to have a quiet moment to myself."

Via Oregonian

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Blazers Want Oden To Work Through Foul Trouble

Trail Blazers center Greg Oden has struggled to remain on the floor this season because of foul trouble.

Portland head coach Nate McMillan had instituted a one foul per quarter rule, meaning that Oden would sit in the first half once he accumulated two fouls.

However, McMillan has changed his strategy and wants Oden and forward LaMarcus Aldridge to learn to play in foul trouble.

"He's going to have to figure it out," McMillan said. "Both he and LaMarcus have been in foul trouble. I've been thinking about it, (and) they have to learn to play with two fouls and stay out of foul trouble. We need them on the floor."

Oden is averaging four personal fouls in 24.2 minutes per game this season.

Via Oregonian

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Webster Helps Portland Keep Defenses Honest

Portland coach Nate McMillan is starting to use Martell Webster to help keep opposing defenses honest.

With Andre Miller and Steve Blake on the floor at the same time, the opposition has double-teamed Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge and Greg Oden often.

"You need a guy who can keep that defense honest," McMillan said. "If they don't, (Webster) has the ability to hurt them with the 3-point ball. If they play single coverage, our guys should be able to take advantage of that. He really helps when you have guys out there spreading the floor."

Webster had season-highs with 21 points and 13 rebounds in Portland's 106-78 victory over Minnesota on Saturday night.

Via Columbian

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