Today, all 30 NBA teams voted on a return to play format that will tentatively begin on July 31st. The plan received overwhelming support as 29 teams voted in favor of it. The only team that was against the proposal was the Portland Trail Blazers. According to reports, some felt as though the 22-team format was unfair and that they would have preferred something with only 20 teams.
Many NBA fans were quick to judge the Trail Blazers for this decision although CJ McCollum eventually came out and defended the team's position. As McCollum explained, the Blazers' ownership group is extremely respectful of the players and that they are one of the few who care about what the players have to say. McCollum claims the team had concerns with the new format and that was reflected in their vote today.
"We play for an ownership group that actually listens to its players and has a backbone. We voiced what we felt was the best option and they followed our lead. I commend our front office and Jody Allen," McCollum wrote.
Regardless, the Blazers will now have to go to Orlando where they will look to compete for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. They are three games back and if they can keep that gap close, there is a good chance they will be awarded with a play-in game.