The Portland Trail Blazers play host to the Denver Nuggets, at Moda Center on Wednesday evening.

The Trail Blazers (0-0) are back after an emotional playoff run in 2019, where they experienced the major high of a series-winning shot and the devastating low of heading home empty-handed. However, their relentless backcourt duo of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum earned more experience and another chip on their shoulder to help give them the edge in what will be a very competitive season. The Blazers made some moves in the offseason and bolstered their frontcourt by adding Hassan Whiteside and Paul Gasol. They also picked up Mario Hezonja and Kent Bazemore, for some reliable depth. After arriving mid way through last season Rodney Hood will have a chance to spend a full season with the team and settle into his role with the team. Jusuf Nurkic (leg) remains in the process of rehab.

Meanwhile, after a less-than impressive playoff run, the Nuggets (0-0) stayed quiet in the offseason. Despite not making any moves, the Nuggets managed to add to their talent by drafting Bol Bol, and also by remaining patient with Michael Porter Jr. as he reached full strength. Porter Jr. is set to take action for the first time since being drafted and could offer Denver another strong wing player. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray led the way for the team in 2018-19, while Will Barton, Gary Harris and Paul Millsap all played solid in support. Malik Beasley and Monte Morris both came up big off the bench at times during the 2018-19 season and playoffs, and if they can take another step, will give the Nuggets a huge advantage.