Can the Portland Trail Blazers play spoiler come postseason?
At the beginning of the year, most of us would have probably said absolutely not. Lately, however, the Blazers (39-26) have found their groove, skyrocketing into third in the Western Conference while riding an eight-game win streak.
If you’re looking for one reason why the Blazers have been so successful, it’s pretty straightforward.
Damian Lillard has been absolutely sensational during their ongoing win streak, averaging 33.1 points (4.1 3PG), 5.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.3 steals over 37 minutes per game. This streak will undoubtedly put him in MVP consideration, especially if they’re able to keep this run going.
The real question is, are the Blazers real or fake contenders?
They are definitely real.
With the Spurs, Timberwolves and Thunder struggling to hold their ground, the Blazers have taken full advantage of the slides, and could be the biggest threat in taking down Houston or Golden State. Portland has not been to a conference finals since 2000, and Damian Lillard & Co. are ready to change that, and possibly avenge their 2015-16 playoff loss to the Warriors in the process.
In contrast to Minnesota and New Orleans, Portland has not been hit with the injury bug (a la Jimmy Butler and DeMarcus Cousins). They have been able to operate consistently without any need for adjustments, which has allowed them to get to where they are now. Even when Lillard missed some time to get fully healthy, Shabazz Napier stepped up, seemingly out of nowhere, and produced in his absence.
The Blazers have split the season series with the Warriors so far, but that will change in what could be the biggest test of the season Friday night, when the defending champs travel to Rip City.
Portland’s Upcoming Schedule
3/9: vs. Golden State
3/12: vs. Miami
3/15: vs. Cleveland
3/17: vs. Detroit
3/18: @ LA Clippers
3/20: vs. Houston
3/23: vs. Boston
3/25: @ Oklahoma City
3/27: @ New Orleans
With a lot of jockeying for position left to do in the Western Conference’s cluttered playoff race, each of these final nine games is crucial for Portland if they wish to host a first round series as a higher seed.
