Fourth-year Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups recently offered up some measured criticism for the club's prized rookie center Donovan Clingan.

With Deandre Ayton sidelined, rookie Donovan Clingan has stepped up, showing the defensive presence and rebounding dominance the Blazers have been missing. As he continues to shine, Portland may have a major decision to make about its long-term frontcourt plans.

“I’m definitely ready,” Clingan said. “I put a lot of work into getting my body and my conditioning right to the point where it’s at and I’m gonna keep on going to get better and better.” Playing well against a center the caliber of Jokic only enhanced Clingan’s belief in his abilities.

The Portland Trail Blazers are facing a critical moment in their season, with hopes of securing a play-in tournament spot still alive despite sitting in 13th place. With a playoff push still within reach,

Donovan Clingan is set to play a more prominent role and coach Chauncey Billups is eager to see how he responds over their upcoming stretch.

With Portland Trail Blazers GM Joe Cronin opting to keep Robert Williams III and, to a lesser extent, Duop Reath past the trade deadline, the likelihood of moving off Deandre Ayton this summer has only increased. Portland doesn't need to roster four centers, three of whom are starting-caliber.

The Portland Trail Blazers fell to the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday once again, marking their third straight defeat. However, in the game, rookie center Donovan

Trail Blazers rookie Donovan Clingan reached a new career high on Monday, and earned a bit of praise from coach Chauncey Billups afterward.