Trail Blazers' starting lineup for opening night leaves $160 million man on bench

The Portland Trail Blazers have made up their mind on an opening night starting lineup.

It leaves an expensive player on the bench.

Head coach Chauncey Billups shared the lineup with reporters on Tuesday.

Portland's starting five will be:

• Jrue Holiday
• Shaedon Sharpe
• Toumani Camara
• Deni Avdija
• Donovan Clingan

This means Jerami Grant will come off the bench.

Grant is in the third season of a five-year, $160 million contract.

The Blazers have opted to use his versatile skill set with the reserves, though.

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Sharpe and Camara both just got new contracts over the weekend, so they'll be feeling good.

The Blazers made a trade in the offseason to add Holiday, who they hope will improve their team culture from a defensive identity and leadership standpoint.

Portland didn't have to make a Scoot Henderson decision at the moment, because he's out injured.

The No. 16 overall pick, Yang Hansen, will be the backup center behind Clingan. Robert Williams is out injured and can't contend for that role at the moment.

Portland will play Wednesday night at home against the favored Minnesota Timberwolves. It will be a quick chance for the Trail Blazers to try and make an opening statement.

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