ORLANDO -- Bryce Taylor doesn't need to look far to find someone who used the NBA predraft camp as a springboard to improving their stock in the draft.

Last year, Aaron Brooks entered the predraft camp as a likely second-round pick. But the former Oregon guard wowed team representatives at the camp and during individual workouts, leading to Houston using its first-round pick (26th overall) to select Brooks.

Taylor, who played four seasons at Oregon, is hoping to emulate Brooks' success by creating a buzz during the camp, which began Tuesday. The only difference? Taylor, projected as a second-round pick at best or a free agent signee, wants to use the camp to attract attention and start climbing the draft charts.

"Coming out here, he (Brooks) was able to show what he could bring to an NBA team," Taylor said. "Then he further elevated his stock during his workouts. But it all started here for him."

Taylor knows he has work to do to enhance his status. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound guard's senior season was a disappointment compared to his junior season. His productivity decreased in several statistical categories (scoring, rebounding, assists, shooting percentage). Only his turnovers increased.

Oregon coach Ernie Kent, who spent Tuesday watching Taylor and fellow Ducks players Malik Hairston and Maarty Leunen, said Taylor has the necessary skills to follow Brooks to the NBA.

"I think if he were to really play aggressive basketball, I think Bryce has a very good package that can certainly be successful at (the NBA) level," Kent said.

Taylor must also overcome the perception that he is a passive player. Scouts and NBA observers say he was too willing to remain in the shadows during games -- passing up shots and shooting without much confidence.

"Bryce is a nice kid by nature. And in basketball, that's not always the best thing," said Jonathan Givony, president of Draft Express.com. "Some of the best players in the world are some of the meanest and nastiest guys around."

Taylor said he's heard those criticisms, and the camp gives him an opportunity to adopt a different mind-set.

Tonight the defending champs get to go head to head with the new orleans hornets!!! This will be a good game to watch for the simple fact that Chris Paul is the best pg (point gaurd) in the league, and duncan ginobli, tony parker, and the puff of smoke have a couple weapons they are ready to load.

What do you think???

Im going with n.o

This year coming up i think the blazers will have a nice shot at the playoffs, this year we had a clean shot but the western conference was a pretty much way better than the eastern conference. This Year The Blazers Have A Shot At 50 Wins What Do You Think???

who will you say is the second best clutch player on the blazers????

I would have to say Brandon Roy or Lamarcus Aldridge.....

The reason that makes me say this is people have there rumors here and there about Greg's going to be the best but i think that's not going to happen.

LILTAY