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By Anne Erickson
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Mark Sears is making sure the Nuggets have a reason to keep believing in him.
The 24-year-old point guard hasn't had the easiest path to finding consistent NBA minutes, but performances like Thursday's are the kind that can make a real difference.
Sears put together one of his strongest showings in Denver's 108-101 loss to the Trail Blazers, scoring 26 points while showing off the kind of shot-making ability teams always value. He finished 8-of-14 from the field and sunk four of his eight attempts from beyond the arc.
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Portland didn't really have an answer for Sears' offensive rhythm, but the Trail Blazers found plenty of other ways to keep the game under control. Seven different Portland players finished between 11 and 16 points, spreading the scoring around and making it plain hard for Denver to slow them down.
For Sears, though, the night was another reminder that he can create offense when given the opportunity. After seeing action in only seven games last season with Milwaukee, every chance to show what he can do carries a little extra weight.
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The NBA can be unforgiving for young players trying to carve out a spot. There are only so many roster spots, only so many minute, and plenty of talented players waiting for the same opening. Sometimes, all it takes is a few strong performances to force a team to reconsider the rotation.
Sears has always had the scoring ability, and Thursday showed why his name is worth keeping an eye on.
Of course, Summer League numbers come with the usual disclaimer. A big night in July doesn't automatically translate into a bigger role once the regular season arrives. The competition gets tougher and opportunities become harder to come by.
But Denver is always looking for players who give them a reason to believe. Sears gave them one. Now, he'll have to keep notching these moments and make the decision-makers notice.
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