The Portland Trail Blazers want to be a competitive playoff team this season. But getting there is going to be a challenge. Luckily, one brave podcast has plotted the course for the Blazers to become a top 5 team in a crowded Western Conference.It starts with Damian Lillard playing like Damian Lillard. Then throw in the continued rise of Anfernee Simons and the Blazers have the quick makings of one of the best offenses in the NBA.But the question is on the other side of the court. If the Blazers are going to be a top playoff team they have to be a top 10 defense in the NBA. It's non-negotiable. If they don't check that box, they're likely in the play-in or worse.Finally, Jusuf Nurkic has to be available for 70 or more games and the Blazers commitment to small ball has to work out. If either of those things don't come to fruition, it likely leads to struggles for the Blazers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices