Do the Blazers Really Need a PG?

The talk surrounding the Portland Trail Blazers this off-season has been directed at two positions in particular: Small Forward and the Point. The rumor mill had been churning out Rashard Lewis, the talented free agent formerly of the Sonics, as the logical choice for the three spot. It looks like Lewis has a deal with the Orlando Magic, however, which leaves the Blazers without an all-star caliber prospect or cap room to pursue anything more than a sign-and-trade. Portland has its doubts about the young Travis Outlaw's ability to play with consitency and shoot the deep ball (a much needed void for this young squad). I'd have to agree with that, but feel that there can't be a hurry to fill that void. The Blazers are at least two years away from scaring the heck out of every team in the league--an important piece of any championship team is the shooter, a role that can be filled by a veteran free agent that can be had when the Steve Francis contract expires.

The real issue seems to be at the point. At least that's what the paid pundits seem to place focus on when discussing the future of this franchise. Am I the only one who likes the Jarrett Jack / Sergio Rodriguez combo? I see Jack as an above average defender with a team-oriented, pass-first mentality. Rodriguez is an spark-plug, assist machine with moments of genius. He's a CPR player.

With the ball-handling ability of B-Roy, the running game of guys like Outlaw, Aldridge, and Oden, is there an urgent need for a new point guard? I say no. The point has to facillitate. Jack can do that. Is he Steve Nash? No. Steve Nash is Steve Nash. He's not Deron Williams or Chris Paul either. But he is a pass-first player with a studious basketball intellect and work ethic impressive even to coach Nate. Also, he's under contract.

So I ask you, what's the hurry?