CJ McCollum’s Portland Homecoming Highlights New Chapter With Hawks

CJ McCollum’s return to Portland carried the weight of history. Playing at Moda Center on Thursday night, the Hawks guard stepped back into the building where he grew from a promising draft pick into an NBA star. The visit served as a reminder of both his past and his evolving present.

Drafted 10th overall by the Trail Blazers in 2013, McCollum spent the formative years of his career in Rip City. Alongside Damian Lillard, he helped define an era of competitive, guard-driven basketball that kept Portland a steady presence in the Western Conference playoff picture.

Though his tenure ended with a midseason trade in 2022, McCollum’s connection to the city has never faded. He has consistently spoken with appreciation about Portland and the support he received throughout his rise.

That bond was evident once again when fans greeted him with a standing ovation as he checked into the game midway through the first quarter, offering a moment of mutual respect between player and city.

1. A Lasting Legacy in Rip City

McCollum’s impact in Portland extended well beyond box scores. Over seven and a half seasons, he averaged 19.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, becoming one of the franchise’s most reliable offensive options. His partnership with Lillard formed one of the league’s most dangerous backcourts, blending shot creation, spacing, and late-game shot-making. Together, they helped Portland navigate multiple postseason runs in a highly competitive Western Conference. The trade that sent McCollum to New Orleans marked a difficult turning point. While the move was painful for fans and player alike, McCollum acknowledged the business reality behind it and expressed understanding at the time. Years later, the affection remains mutual. Portland supporters have continued to embrace McCollum whenever he returns, viewing him as a foundational figure in the franchise’s recent history.

2. From Rumors to Reality in Atlanta

In recent seasons, speculation occasionally surfaced about a possible reunion between McCollum and Lillard, particularly when McCollum’s name circulated in trade discussions. Many in Portland envisioned a return that would reconnect past success. Instead, McCollum found his next opportunity with the Atlanta Hawks. The move brought him to a new conference and a different stage of his career, one that emphasizes experience and scoring punch rather than carrying the offense nightly. Early returns have been encouraging. McCollum impressed in his first two appearances with Atlanta, including a 25-point performance off the bench in a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier in the week. The Hawks value his ability to stabilize lineups, space the floor, and provide instant offense. His presence has added depth to a backcourt that already features emerging contributors.

3. Embracing a New Role

At 34, McCollum is adjusting to a different rhythm. Atlanta has leaned on Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker as its starting guards, positioning McCollum in a supporting role designed to maximize efficiency. Rather than diminishing his influence, the role allows him to pick spots and impact games without the burden of constant defensive attention. His veteran awareness has translated quickly within the rotation. Against Portland, McCollum’s night carried emotional significance, but the competitive focus remained intact. For McCollum, the evening symbolized continuity and change—honoring the past while embracing the present. His journey now moves forward with Atlanta, even as his legacy in Portland remains firmly intact.