Blazer Report: Batum makes good first impression

PORTLAND — Every time Nate McMillan appeared ready to finish a list of different things he likes about rookie Nicolas Batum on Sunday, the Portland Trail Blazers coach came up with something new.

McMillan started with different aspects of Batum’s defense — quick feet, length and good instincts. Then he added comments about Batum’s unselfish nature, the energy he brings to the floor and his activity around the basket. McMillan said likes Batum’s passing ability, court vision and potential of his shooting ability.

In other words, McMillan is seeing a lot more in Batum than anybody expected this early in his career.

“He’s got a feel for the game,” McMillan said. “Once he’s knocking down the shot consistently, I think he’s a forward you can start.”

And to think, four months ago questions were raised about whether the Blazers would sign Batum — the 25th pick in last summer’s draft — and bring the talented-but-raw forward over from his team in France. And when the Blazers did choose to sign him, the general opinion among team officials was that Batum would likely stay on the bench and do most of his developing in practices.

But Batum’s play during the first four preseason games helped reshape that vision.

He has connected on 54 percent (14 of 26) of his shot attempts, averaged 8.8 points and 2.5 rebounds in 20.3 minutes and showed that he can affect a game defensively with his length and athleticism by blocking jump shots on the perimeter. And on Sunday, Batum had by far his best game this fall, hitting 7 of 11 shots for 16 points and blocking three shots.

“I think he’s an NBA defender right now,” said Blazers General Manager Kevin Pritchard. “And he’s got a good grasp of the game. As he gets more comfortable, we think that he has a chance to get in some games.”

That possibility got better when Martell Webster was lost until December with a broken left foot. With that room in the rotation open, McMillan said he would feel comfortable using Batum in games alongside experienced players who can help him find his spots, such as Brandon Roy, Steve Blake and LaMarcus Aldridge.

Frye ready to return

Channing Frye has been cleared to return to practices this week and appears to be well ahead of schedule in his return from surgery to remove bone spurs in his left ankle.

Frye participated in non-contact drills on Saturday, and anticipates getting into full practices by the middle of the week. Frye said his conditioning needs to improve, but he expects to be ready to play in at least one preseason game — well ahead of the original projection for his return of early November.

“I think barring a freak injury or accident, I’m about 100 percent playing (in the regular-season opener),” Frye said. “That’s what I’m pushing at.”

Blake nearing return, too

Along with Frye, point guard Steve Blake is also expected to return to practice by mid-week. Blake has not practiced since the second day of training camp because of a strained hamstring.