Blazer Nation Blog

Blazers Start Season 3-0 With Big Win Against Denver

2011-12-30T02:19:00.000-08:00

The Denver Nuggets rolled into town last night to match up against the Blazers and with both teams having started their seasons 2-0 it was someone's time to put a 1 in that loss column.

Starting Fives:

Portland Denver
Raymond Felton D. Gallinari
Wesley Matthews Nene

Marcus Camby T. Mozgov
Gerald Wallace A. Afflalo
LaMarcus Aldridge T. Lawson

Can we start off by completely applauding the hot starts the Blazers have been getting off to? In each game so far the Blazers have been RED hot on both ends of the court. First they completely abuse teams on defense and then use speed and precision to outplay and outsmart their opponents on the offensive end. Tonight we saw electric play from everyone but most notably my pick for player of the game: Wesley Matthews.

O-LEY! Don't get me wrong, Raymond Felton was also outstanding but I have to pick Wesley because of his clutch play late in the game. Matthews put up 4 of his 5 three pointers in the 3rd quarter (he went 5/8 from beyond the arc) and hustled on both ends of the court. We saw him lose the ball on a messy turnover only to hustle back on defense and steal the ball back. After a somewhat slow start to the game, Wesley was a big part of bringing the Blazers to a win after the team faded in the second half.

Box Score Look Back:

The Blazers had three players score 20+ points with our player of the game, Mr. Matthews as the high scorer with 25 points, shooting 9/15 from the field with 5 rebounds and 2 assists. Raymond Felton put up 23 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists with Jamal Crawford following closely with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. LaMarcus Aldridge and Gerald Wallace fought fatigue late in the game and ended with 13 points a piece but don't count either out as each posted 5 and 6 rebounds respectively. LaMarcus fought the difficult post play by dishing out 6 assists tonight as well. Also of note: Marcus Camby's defense. He may have only scored 2 points but he recorded 12 rebounds and 3 MONSTER blocks that came at crucial points in the game. Speaking of blocks: apparently Nicolas Batum had the goal of denying Andre Miller a shot tonight because 3 of his 4 blocks were on Dre.

This new Blazers team is so exciting to watch. We're finally running the floor and playing with intensity on both ends of the court! The Blazers (despite having a scary 25 turn overs compared to Denver's 7) were able to come away with a win 111-102 holding Denver to 23 points in the 4th quarter. It was an exciting game with a great finish as Portland remains undefeated at the Rose Garden. However, I will not completely applaud the Blazers as there are clearly some areas that need to be improved upon. 25 turn overs? Not acceptable guys. We got so lucky tonight that we were able to scrap our way to a win despite that ridiculous number. Also, we definitely need to continue working on closing out games! The guys still are working on getting their game legs, which is understandable but we can't keep letting teams back in the game during the second half. It makes for exciting but really terrifying games. All in all though, we've seen some amazing game play from this team so far and I for one am really excited to see where we go!

Photo of the Night:

I'm sorry......but it's just perfect. Ex-Blazers Andre Miller and Rudy Fernandez who were looking to get a big win on the road against their former team......were simply CRASHed into a loss so to speak.....Eh? Get it? Crash! Cause...Gerald Wallace.....yeah.

Looking Ahead:

The Blazers next go on the road for a two game road trip starting in the city of Angels to face the Clippers who are currently 1-1 on the season.

Portland has won nine of the past 10 games and 12 of the last 14 against the L.A. Clippers.
The Trail Blazers have defeated the Clippers in five straight Rose Garden meetings and in six of the past seven contests at STAPLES Center.
The Clippers have managed to score 100-plus points just once in the last 10 meetings, with Portland hitting triple figures six times in that span.
Portland swept last season’s series, 3-0, giving the Trail Blazers their fourth consecutive series win over the Clippers and 21st series victory since the Clippers moved to Los Angeles in 1984-85.
The Trail Blazers outshot the Clippers from the field (45.5%-41.6%), the 3-point line (44.9%-30.4%) and the charity stripe (79.5%-62.8%) in three games last season.
In three series games last season, Portland outscored Los Angeles, 102.0-90.7.
Despite outrebounding the Clippers in last season’s three-game series, 135-123, including a 46-42 edge on the offensive end, Los Angeles outscored the Trail Blazers in second-chance points, 53-40.

Points in the paint - With the addition of Chris Paul and the continuing improvements from Blake Griffon we will need to keep tight defensively when it comes to letting the Clippers set up post plays. On the other end however it would be so lovely to see LaMarcus Aldridge ABUSE Griffon in the post and get some nice hook shots in the paint.
Resist the Third Quarter Burn Out! - So far we have had serious lulls in intensity right before the half and mort importantly later in the third. We take these huge, beautiful leads early in the first half only to get sloppy and allow the opponent to come back and tie. The Blazers won't have the support of a home crowd behind them to will them to a victory. The Clippers are looking at a sell-out crowd who would love nothing more than to see their Clippers get another home win.
Keep It (Not) Sloppy Stupid K.I.S.S! - We have to reduce the turnovers in this game. If we play anything like we did last night with 25 TOs it will simply lead to a Griffon dunk show. We need to take care of the ball on offense and go for the steals and get some runs going from the defensive end.

The Blazers will take on the Clippers January 1, 2012 at 6:30 PM. You can catch the game on Comcast Sportsnet in the Portland metro area or you can catch the live stream on TrailBlazers.com! Starting January 1, the Trail Blazers will be streaming games for free on their website so you can catch the action regardless of where you live!

Here's to 4 - 0!

Sources: Photo 1 , Photo 2 , Series Notes

Thunder Hits Portland--Up Next Toronto

2010-11-05T11:59:00.000-07:00

Thursday night the Oklahoma City Thunder rolled into town to take on the Blazers. This was the first home game after the Blazers successful 3-1 road trip and with OKC being a conference rival it was an important game to say the least.

Starting 5:
LaMarcus Aldridge
Marcus Camby
Nicolas Batum
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

LaMarcus Aldridge once again was the player of the game. The ~~beard~~ man scored 22 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist. He shot 11-19 from the field. LaMarcus has been one of the most consistent guys on the team! Night after night he is getting the job done and in the first few minutes of the game, he was the only Blazer who scored any points at all. The only thing that I'm not too happy about was that LMA shot 0-0 from the line. I was actually shocked looking at that stat. The L-Train has been doing a much better job at getting to the line but just couldn't get there on Thursday. Brandon Roy had a nice game with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. He shot 6-17 from the field and a perfect 6-6 from the line. I have to say though, this game really belonged to Nicolas Batum. Nico has been struggling to keep a rhythm so far but Thursday that rhythm finally came back. He scored 16 points alonf with 5 rebounds and 2 assists. Batum was all over the place that night working hard on both the offensive and defensive ends. Nico guarded Kevin Durant for most of the night and though KD was able to score 28 points, he was only 2-5 from beyond the arch, showing that Nicolas made Kevin go to the hoop and work for those points. It was good to see Batum really get back into the swing of things and I hope he's able to take that game and only build on it Saturday.

Box Score:

Oklahoma City won the game 107-106 in OT.

This game was won at the free throw line. Oklahoma City shot 24-26 from the line (92%) and Portland shot 16-20 (80%) with some players ~~(cough, LMA, cough)~~ not making it to the free throw line at all. When a game is won or lost by such a small number I always look at the free throw percentage. In a close game, free throws are HUGE. Next, I look at rebounds. Extra possessions can make or break a game. OKC out-rebounded POR by 9 (47 rebounds to our 38). The Thunder out-rebounded us on the defensive end with 32 to our 23. Those extra possessions allowed Oklahoma to break the Blazers 12 point lead and eventually take the win in OT.

Photo(s) of the Night:

The team officially announced the dedication of this season to Maurice Lucas Thursday night with Lucas' family in attendance.

Homeless Sonics mascot.

The Blazers next take on the Toronto Raptors at the Rose Garden Saturday night.

• The Trail Blazers have won four straight games in the series, tying for Portland’s longest win streak over Toronto (2002-03).

• Portland has swept Toronto, 2-0, each of the past two seasons. The Trail Blazers have also won the last three matchups at the

Rose Garden with the last loss coming Dec. 22, 2006 (101-100 OT).

• Toronto’s top two scorers (Chris Bosh, 28.0, and Hedo Turkoglu, 19.0) from last year’s season series against Portland are no longer

with the Raptors. Andrea Bargnani (13.0) averaged the most points against Portland last season among Toronto’s returning players.

• Four Trail Blazers averaged at least 15 points vs. the Raptors last season. Brandon Roy led the way with a 20.0 scoring average

while LaMarcus Aldridge, Nicolas Batum and Andre Miller each averaged 15.5 points per game.

• Toronto’s Andrea Bargnani and Portland’s LaMarcus Aldridge were selected ﬁ rst and second overall in the 2006 NBA Draft.

• Brandon Roy logged his ﬁ rst career double-double on Dec. 22, 2006, against the Raptors, with 16 points and 10 rebounds to go

along with eight assists.

• Portland shot 51.4 percent (18-35) from 3-point range against Toronto last season. Rudy Fernandez and Nicolas Batum each

hit six total shots from downtown in two games against the Raptors last year.

• Portland committed only 18 turnovers against the Raptors in two meetings last season while forcing Toronto into 27 turnovers.

• With a 105.0 scoring average against Toronto last season, Portland’s average margin of victory over the Raptors was 12.5 points

in two games last season.

• Toronto’s last two victories over Portland have both come in overtime. The last time Toronto won a game in regulation against the

Trail Blazers was Feb. 12, 2006, in Toronto.

• Marcus Camby was drafted second overall by the Toronto Raptors in 1996. Camby played 126 games in two seasons for Toronto

while blocking a total of 360 shots.

• Rudy Fernandez plays on the Spanish National Team with Toronto guard Jose Calderon. Calderon matched the record for assists

by a Raptor against the Trail Blazers with 13 on Dec. 7, 2008.

• Toronto guard Jarrett Jack posted 9.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists in three seasons with the Trail Blazers from 2005-08.

ALSO: The Portland Trail Blazers have announced that they signed C Sean Marks today to replace Fabricio Oberto who retired Thursday due to a pre-diagnosed heart condition.

Sources: Yahoo Sports Media Notes

The Enforcer 1952-2010

2010-11-02T11:55:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a special post to commemorate Maurice Lucas, the Enforcer.

Maurice had been battling bladder cancer and sadly lost his battle Sunday October 31, 2010. His legacy will always be remembered by the Blazer community. He was apart of the 1977-1978 championship winning team and went on to play for the Blazers for a total of five years. He was known for being a tough guy on the court but a real sweetheart off of it.

Our thoughts are prayers are with Lucas' family.

The memorial for Lucas will be held on Monday November 8 at the Memorial Colliseum where Lucas brought the NBA championship to Portland so many years ago. Doors open at 11 AM and the service starts at noon.

Feb. 18 1952 - Oct. 31, 2010

The Enforcer

Chicago Fears the Beard--Up Next Milwaukee

2010-11-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

The Blazers have had a spectacular start to the 2010-2011 season going 3-0 for the first time since the 1999-2000 season. Yesterday, the Blazers travelled to the windy city to try and boost that streak to 4-0.

Starting Five:
LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Marcus Camby
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

The high scorer of the night and all other recognition goes to none other than LaMarcus Aldridge (and his beard, I'm a fan). LMA came close to a career high and double-double with 33 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 blocked shot. The man was nearly flawless. He was perfect from the free throw line shooting 9-9 and 12-19 from the field. LaMarcus was the absolute leader of this team last night. We struggled out of the gate but LaMarcus caught fire and never slowed down. Brandon Roy had an extremely slow start but still finished the game with 17 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists. Roy shot 4-12 from the field and 0-2 from beyond the arch. In the bronze position for the night was rookie, Armon Johnson with 10 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists. Johnson, who had family present at this game, was a surprising spark late in the 4th quarter. Nate took the starters out, flew the white flag and put in the rookies with 4 minutes to go. Johnson led that rookie unit to bring the Chicago lead down to 9 with an 8-0 run. The run was cut short but it made this loss a little less painful knowing our rookies were the type to go out there and try and make something happen.

Box Score:

The Blazers came out slow and tired in the first half. The Bulls were able to kill us on transition and get easy lay-ins and buckets but what was the real dagger was field goal shooting. The Bulls shot a steady 60% from the field to our 41% and a big 38% from 3-pt range to our shocking 0%. Luol Deng was huge for the Bulls win with a career high 40 points, shooting 14-19 from the field and 3-5 from beyond the arch. The Blazers lost the game 110-98.

Photo of the Night:

Thankfully Gibson forgot which way the hoop was on this play.

The Blazers next travel to Milwaukee to take on the Bucks tonight! Tip off is at 8 PM EST, 5 PM PST.

• Portland and Milwaukee split last year’s season series,1-1, with each team winning at home.

• The Trail Blazers have won six of the past seven meetings.

• Portland had won ﬁ ve straight against Milwaukee until the Bucks’ double-overtime win, 108-101, Dec. 12, 2009, in Milwaukee.

• Portland has defeated Milwaukee in four straight meetings at the Rose Garden. The Trail Blazers have won 15 of the last 22 games between

the teams overall.

• Milwaukee’s last two wins over Portland have come in overtime. The Bucks’ last win in regulation over the Trail Blazers came on March 20,

2006, 100-93, in Portland.

• Nate McMillan became the second-youngest NBA coach in the last 20 years to reach 350 career wins after a 96-84 victory at Milwaukee on

March 21, 2009 (Jeff Van Gundy).

• LaMarcus Aldridge averaged 26 points per game in two contests against Milwaukee last season to lead Portland while playing

an average of 45 minutes per game. Brandon Roy added 22.5 points per game against the Bucks in 2009-10.

• Marcus Camby did not play against Milwaukee last season as Portland’s games against the Bucks were before Camby was traded to the

Trail Blazers. The Los Angeles Clippers’ games against the Bucks came after Camby was traded to Portland.

• Portland shot 49.1 percent from the ﬁ eld in two contests against Milwaukee last season. The Bucks shot 47.5 percent from the

ﬂ oor and 41.7 percent from 3-point range against Portland in 2009-10.

• Each team turned the ball over 29 times in last year’s matchups.

• The Trail Blazers attempted 60 free throws during last year’s season series while Milwaukee attempted 42. Andre Miller shot a

series-high 18 total free-throw attempts during the meetings.

• Wesley Matthews played at the Bradley Center during his collegiate career at Marquette.

• Milwaukee Head Coach Scott Skiles is 10-13 (.435) in his career vs. the Trail Blazers as coach of Phoenix, Chicago and Milwaukee.

• Bucks assistant coach Joe Wolf played 21 games for Portland during the 1992-93 season, averaging 2.5 points and 2.1 rebounds.

• Joel Przybilla played for the Milwaukee Bucks from 2000-03. Przybilla totaled 141 games played with averages of 1.9 points and 3.6 rebounds

before being traded to Atlanta during the 2003-04 season.

Sources: Photo-Yahoo Sports Notes-Blazers Media Notes

Pre-Season Comes to a Close with Opening Night Around the Corner

2010-10-22T00:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Blazers faces the Denver Nuggets in the last game of pre-season. Marcus Camby who had rarely played this pre-season was finally back to help lead the Blazers to a win.

Box Score:

Brandon Roy was on point tonight and was the team's high scorer with a whopping 23 points, the most he's scored all pre-season. He also contributed 3 rebounds and 2 assists to the mix. I have to say this was the Brandon Roy we've been waiting for. He was cutting to the basket, drawing the fouls and distributing the ball. The RoyBot has been pretty quiet this pre-season but he showed tonight he's been saving it all for the regular season. Marcus Camby made quite a contribution tonight as well with 8 points and 17 rebounds! Camby was all over the place diving and scrapping for the ball. He showed some serious hustle and it's clear how lucky we are to have him. LaMarcus put up a near double double with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists. LaMarcus has been one of my favorite improvements so far. One of the biggest pet peeves associated with the L-Train is that he always settles for the fade away jump shot rather than battling for position and getting to the hoop. This pre-season we've seen a major improvement in LMA's game down low, he gets to the basket and he gets to the line. He shot 4-6 from the line tonight and it looked good. I'm really excited to see him continue to progress.

The Blazers went on to win 90 - 83. It was such a great game and can only give the Blazers positive momentum going into Tuesday's season opener game against Phoenix. We battled the Nuggets and really gave them a run for their money. What I liked best about the play tonight was that we made the Nuggets earn their points sending them to the line 28 times and we contested everything. Defense was a big factor tonight as the Blazers walked away with 7 steals and 5 blocked shots.

Photo of the Night:

Doin' Work.

The Blazers next play the Phoenix Suns in the regular season opener, Tuesday 7 PM at the Rose Garden! It's going to be a great game and a great season so be sure to get yourself some tickets!

• Phoenix ousted Portland from the 2010 NBA Playoffs with a 4-2 series win in the First Round. The Suns outscored the Trail Blazers, 103.3-93.0, in the series, shooting 47.2 percent from the field while holding Portland to just 43.0 percent shooting.

• The Trail Blazers won the 2009-10 regular season series between the teams, 2-1, with all three games decided by seven points or fewer. Portland’s win was its first in the season series against Phoenix since 1999-2000 (3-1).

• The winning team has scored 100-plus points in 20 of the last 22 regular season

games in the series.

• In three 2009-10 games between the teams, Portland shot 46.1 percent from the field and 32.6 percent from 3-point range, while Phoenix shot 44.6 percent and 37.9 percent, respectively.

• The Suns committed 41 turnovers in the three head-to-head matchups last season to the Blazers’ 26 (averages of 13.7 and 8.7 per game, respectively). Portland held a 22-11 advantage in steals and a 19-6 edge in blocks during the three meetings.

Pre-Season BEGINS! (And so does Blazer Nation Blog 2.0!)

2010-10-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Pre-Season has begun! This past Monday the Blazers faced the Los Angeles Clippers in their first game of the pre-season. It was a highly anticipated game for both sides considering it was Clippers' Blake Griffin's official NBA debut and after all the buzz that has been circulating around Wesley Matthews Jr (and a certain Spanish player, for different reasons of course) it was the fans' first opportunity to see what Junior had to offer in an official game setting.

Box Score Courtesy of TrailBlazers.com:

Both teams started at a similar pace, tied 12-12 with about 5 minutes left in the first but the Blazers proceeded to run and never let go. LaMarcus got the party started with a nasty one handed put back dunk. He ended the game with 17 points, 2 assists and 7 rebounds. Can we just take a moment to praise the L Train? My main man was not only knocking down his signature fade away shots but getting into the paint and to the hoop. Aldridge shot 5-6 from the line and 6-12 from the field. I really enjoyed what I saw from him on Monday and only hope it keeps gettin' better.

Now, let's talk Wes Matthews! In his Blazer debut, Matthews shot 3-8 from beyond the arch and 4-9 from the field leading the Blazers in scoring with 20 points. Upon his entrance into the game, Wes was received with a standing ovation and a roar of cheers from the crowd and it only got louder when he exited. His performance at fan fest made me excited but after his performance against the Clippers I just can not wait to see him in the regular season. His defense and perimeter offense were extremely impressive. It'll be exciting to watch his stats throughout the season.

Lastly, we will discuss a certain Spaniard. No matter what opinion you have had or still have on Rudy, you must agree that his play was extremely impressive. He looked like the Rudy of the old Spanish Armada days cutting to the basket, looking for the assist and knocking down the threes. Rudy shot 5-6 from beyond the arch scoring 15 points for the game. He entered the game to an assortment of boos, Ruuuuuuuudys and cheers but upon his exit all that could be heard where cheers. If Rudy can keep playing at this level I think the doubters will become fewer and fewer.

The Blazers cruised to a 115 - 86 win over the Clippers. Overall it was a great opener to the pre-season. We got to see a little something from all of our rookies, Elliot Williams was the only Blazer to not score. We saw a more intense and focused defense. The Blazers forced the Clippers to a shot clock violation on more than one possession and were deflecting passes and fighting for the ball. It was a great game to see.

Photo of the Game:

In short, it really hits the nail on the head....or ball on the head I suppose. This photo came after Nico's MONSTROUS dunk.

The Blazers next fly to Salt Lake City to take on the Utah Jazz on Thursday. The game can be heard on 95.5 the game if you are in the Portland area or you can chat along side Blazer fans on TrailBlazers.com. Now, the notes!

• Utah owns a 12-6 edge over Portland in preseason meetings. The Trail Blazers have not won in three preseason games in Salt Lake City, all since 2006.

• The Jazz swept last year’s regular season series, 4-0, marking its first win in the series with Portland since 2005-06 (also a 4-0 sweep). Utah won by an average of 11.0 points (106.3-95.3) in the four games, the widest margin against Portland of any NBA team last season. The Jazz shot 54.9% from the field (40.0% 3-PT) , the best mark of any Trail Blazers opponent in 2009-10, while limiting Portland to 39.5% shooting (27.2% 3-PT) in the 2009-10 series.

• Utah’s four-game winning streak against Portland is the longest current winning run against the Trail Blazers of any Western Conference opponent, and the second longest of any NBA opponent (Cleveland, six).

• Portland dominated the offensive glass against Utah last season, accruing a 66-35 advantage in the category in four games.

• The Jazz carried a 117-71 edge in assists during four series games between the teams in the 2009-10 regular season.

• Brandon Roy’s 21.0 points (14-28 FG) in two games vs. Utah led all Trail Blazers in scoring vs. the Jazz in 2009-10. LaMarcus Aldridge added 20.3 points and 8.8 rebounds while playing in all four contests against the Jazz last year.

• Wesley Matthews averaged 9.0 points (11-21 FG) and 3.5 rebounds in four games against Portland as a member of the Jazz last season.

• Deron Williams led all current Jazz players in the 2009-10 series with Portland by averaging 19.8 points and 11.8 assists in the four regular season meetings.

• As a member of the Timberwolves, Al Jefferson led Minnesota with 16.3 points and 9.3 rebounds in four games against Portland in 2009-10.

• LaMarcus Aldridge scored a career-high 36 points (12-17 FG) in Utah’s win over the Trail Blazers on Dec. 31, 2007, which snapped Portland’s 13-game win streak.

• Utah forward Demetris Nichols was originally selected by Portland with the 53rd pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, before the Trail Blazers traded his draft rights to New York. Nichols also participated on Portland’s 2010 NBA Summer League team.

Lastly, I want to apologize for the complete LACK of posts over the off season. I've been taking classes and have had very limited time to blog but I am hoping to continue blogging about all the games this season! Thanks for sticking with me Nation! Let's go Blazers!!

Photo: Yahoo Sports

Rip City Uprise -- Playoffs 2010

2010-04-22T00:43:00.000-07:00

Games 1 & 2 in Phoenix have passes and so far the Suns and Blazers split the series 1 - 1. Portland made a big steal in capturing game 1 but left game 2 to a Phoenix win in a lackluster effort from the Blazers.

Game 1 we saw the Blazers team that has a real shot at moving forward in the playoffs. We saw phenomenal performances from Andre Miller, Jerryd Bayless, LaMarcus Aldridge and Nicolas Batum. We saw ball movement, defense and a sense of urgency that led to the Portland win. Going into game one practically everyone (besides Blazer fans) was expecting a Phoenix sweep, what with B Roy being out, and Portland showed heart and proved them wrong. Guys stepped up and earned that W.

Box Score:

Game 2 was a different story. There was no ball movement, lackluster defense and no sense of urgency. Phoenix killed us with the double team on LaMarcus and denying Andre Miller the ball. It was an ugly game. Aldridge had such a weak night that he sat for most of the 4th quarter while our "clean up crew" (rookies) came out and put in more effort than we had seen all game. Martell Webster was one of very few, if any, bright spots. He gave everything he had all the way through the end and put up nice numbers, 16 points and 5 rebounds.

Box Score:

The Blazers next travel back home to face the Suns at the Rose Garden for games 3 & 4. Game 3 is Thursday at 7 PM PST on NBATV and Game 4 is Saturday at 1:30 PM PST on NBATV.

**IMPORTANT**
If you're attending game 3 on Thursday, be sure to WEAR RED in support of the Blazers!! We'll be trying to Red Out the Rose Garden to welcome home our team! Be sure to pass the news along and spread the word so we can have a sea of red in the crowd!

Blazers Playoff Fate is Sealed and Fan Appreciation Night Results in a Loss

2010-04-15T01:09:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Fan Appreciation Night at the Rose Garden to commemorate the final game of the regular season and honor all the fans who have made the RG one of the most dangerous places for teams to play in in the NBA. Tonight also sealed the Blazers' playoff fates with the San Antonio loss to Dallas and a Phoenix win over Utah.

Prior to the game, the Spurs loss to the Mavericks giving Blazers the 6th seed in the playoffs! We clinched 6th which, when you think about it, is absolutely crazy considering everything this team has been through this season. Knowing this, Nate McMillan decided to rest Marcus Camby and Andre Miller only played a couple minutes to keep his consecutive game streak alive. LaMarcus Aldridge was also out for tonight's game with a stomach flu bug. This meant a lot of guys who don't normally see minutes saw a lot of time on the court. The most significant of these was Jeff Pendergraph, who was tonight's top player with a career high 23 points shooting 11-15 from the field, 4 rebounds and 2 steals. Pendergraph was definitely 'A Little Bit' Crazy tonight, in the first half alone he had something like 3 or 4 monstrous dunks. Jeff wasn't the only one to feel the heat tonight, Marty Party was in full swing tonight with 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Dante INFERNO Cunningham also made a big contribution in the first half, before having to sit out due to a stomach bug during halftime, with 13 points, 11 boards, 1 assist and 1 blocked shot. I'm also proud to announce that Patty Mills got some considerable playing time and contributed 11 points shooting 4 - 8 from the field and 2 - 3 from the arch, 1 rebound and 2 assists.

Here's A Look At The Rest of the Box Score:

This game was definitely not the high note of the season but considering that our "second string" players (so to speak) were playing for us we did pretty damn good. The Blazers did end up losing tonight 122 - 116 but they fought hard and didn't just roll over when technically they could have. Jeff Pendergraph showed what he's capable of and gave a huge boost to the team coming off the bench and we saw some great things from Dante and Patty Mills, the future of this team. One of the biggest things I saw tonight though, was smiles. Smiles from EVERYONE. Every fan, every player and every coach. Tonight was about winning or losing it was about having fun, playing some basketball and celebrating the fact that we are going to the playoffs.

Pictures I Took From the Game Tonight:

Rip City Uprise -- Playoffs 2010

Portland clinched the 6th seed and with a Phoenix win against Utah tonight, we will be facing the Suns in the first round of the playoffs. Here's a look at the first round schedule:

Game 1: Sunday, April 18th
Portland at Phoenix
7:30pm on ESPN

Game 2: Tuesday, April 20th
Portland at Phoenix
7:00pm on TNT

Game 3: Thursday, April 22nd
Phoenix at Portland
7:00pm on NBATV

Game 4: Saturday, April 24th
Phoenix at Portland
1:30pm on TNT

Game 5 (if necessary): Monday, April 26th
Portland at Phoenix
TBD

Game 6 (if necessary): Thursday, April 29th
Phoenix at Portland
TBD

Game 7 (if necessary): Saturday, May 1st
Portland at Phoenix
TBD

I think we can all start breathing a little easier now that we know what we're up against. Phoenix is not going to be an easy match-up by any means but I think we are true contenders in this series. This match-up is going to be a "battle of tempos" according to Nate McMillan and he couldn't be more correct. Phoenix is going to run and pull the screen and roll like there's no tomorrow. The Blazers are going to need to rest and rejuvenate themselves and really prepare mentally for this match. I think we can shock the world and go far in these playoffs if we come prepared. If we win this series, Portland will face the winner of the Dallas v. San Antonio series which would be so exciting to see if Portland could possibly go all the way to the Western Conference finals! I know we can go far if we play like a team, so let's go and show the world we're capable of greatness Portland!

Portland Seals OKC's Fate & Golden State @ The Rose Garden -- A Preview

2010-04-13T23:22:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I did not get to see the POR vs. OKC game live (seeing as I was laughing with Conan O' Brien in Eugene) BUT what I did see, I LOVED. Don't get me wrong, I love Brandon Roy and he is the undisputed leader of this team but this season at least, it seems this team plays more like a TEAM when Brandon goes down, like something clicks and a new sense of urgency is instilled and everyone plays up the level they're capable of. When I say everyone, in the OKC game's case, I mean Marcus Camby. Say what you want about missing Travis and Steve (I still do) but the Camby trade had to be the best move we made this year. I truly believe that if Camby was not on this team, we wouldn't be looking forward to a possible 6th seed berth in the playoffs, or the playoffs at all for that matter. Camby went for an incredible 30 points on 12-16 from the field, 13 rebounds and 3 steals. He lead this team to the win and will hopefully lead us to even more wins in the post season and beyond. Portland's win over OKC also sealed the Thunder's fate in the playoffs as they are now locked in the 8th seed and will meet the Lakers in the first round.

Here's A Look At The Rest of the Box Score:

Photo of the Night:

MAR-CUS CAMBY *clapclap* *clapclapclap*

*If you'd like to hear the audio of the Rose Garden going CRAZY and chanting Marcus' name, please listen and download it HERE

The Blazers next game is their last regular season game and it's against the Golden State Warriors at the Rose Garden. It is Fan Night so those of you who, like me, will be in attendance be sure to bring the energy and make it loud to celebrate this great season and our playoff berth!

Probable Starters:

Portland Trail Blazers: Golden State Warriors:

LaMarcus Aldridge Corey Maggette

Nicolas Batum Anthony Tolliver

Marcus Camby Ronny Turiaf

Rudy Fernandez* Monta Ellis

Andre Miller Stephen Curry

* -- Rudy is getting the start in place of Brandon Roy who is out with a knee injury

• Golden State has won 13 of the past 19 games in the series. Already with a 2-1 series lead, the Trail Blazers are a win Wednesday away from their first series win since 2002- 03, when they earned a 4-0 sweep.

• Portland has won each of the last four games against Golden State at the Rose Garden.

• The Warriors had won nine straight meetings in Oakland before the Trail Blazers gained a 27-9 advantage in the fourth quarter in a come-from-behind win, 110-105, on March 11.

• The Trail Blazers have earned a 141-109 rebounding edge, including a 52-33 margin on the offensive glass, in three meetings between the teams this season.

• In three series contests, Brandon Roy leads Portland with 31.7 points per game (32- 55 FG). Andre Miller has added 17.3 points per contest.

• Portland has closed the season at home against Golden State three times before, compiling a 2-1 record in those contests. The teams last met in a regular season finale on April 18, 2007, a victory for the Warriors, 120-98.

• Golden State won last season’s series, 2-1, with the home team winning all three contests.

• The winning team has scored more than 100 points in each of the last 13 games in the series. Both teams averaged better than 105 points per game (Portland, 105.7; Golden State, 105.3) in three meetings last year.

• The Trail Blazers earned a 125-112 rebounding advantage, including a 46-34 edge on the offensive glass, in three series games in 2008-09. Portland outscored Golden State in the paint, 144-110.

• The Warriors gained 30 points on the Trail Blazers in three games by shooting 90-for- 100 (90.0%) from the free throw line last year. Portland went 60-for-77 (77.9%).

• Brandon Roy led the Trail Blazers with 26.0 points (58.0% FG, 6-9 3-PT), 5.3 assists and 2.67 steals (tied) in three games against the Warriors last season.

• Portland committed 56 turnovers, including a season-high 23 in Oakland on Feb. 12, while Golden State tallied 47 turnovers in three meetings last season.

• Warriors Head Coach Don Nelson has coached more games vs. the Trail Blazers than any other active NBA head coach (52-54).

• Golden State television broadcaster Jim Barnett played in Portland’s inaugural season in 1970-71, averaging a team second-best 18.5 points per game.

Let's go get that 51st win to close out a great season Portland!!

Picture: Yahoo! Sports

Blazers at Staples Center -- A Preview

2010-04-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Blazers have traveled back to the city of Angels and the Staples Center to take on the Los Angeles Lakers, one of Portland's biggest rivals. This game brings a huge pivotal moment in the Blazers' season as it could very well tell the tale of the post season. With a San Antonio win last night, Portland is going to have to fight that much harder to obtain the 7th seed so we could very well see a POR/LAL match up in the first round.

• The Lakers have won five straight contests between the teams in Los Angeles and 14 of the past 16. Portland’s last road win in the series came on Feb. 21, 2007 (112-108). • The Trail Blazers earned a 107-98 victory in the first game of the series Jan. 8 in the Rose City behind Brandon Roy’s 32 points (9-11 FG, 13-14 FT). Portland never trailed, leading by as many as 20 points in the fourth quarter.

• Portland had defeated the Lakers in nine straight meetings at the Rose Garden before L.A. earned a 99-82 win on Feb. 6 in a game played without injured stars Brandon Roy and Kobe Bryant. The Lakers carried a 47-30 rebounding margin, including a career-high tying 22 boards by Lamar Odom, and a 48-22 advantage in points in the paint.
• Portland and the L.A. Lakers meet just three times this year, as the Lakers are one of two teams the Trail Blazers visit only once (San Antonio). Portland’s only trip to STAPLES Center to face the Lakers on Sunday marks its final road contest of the season. • The Trail Blazers and Lakers split last year’s series, with each game going to the home team. Portland won by 12.5 points per game at the Rose Garden, while Los Angeles outscored Portland by 17.0 points in two games at STAPLES Center.
• In four meetings last season, the Lakers outshot the Trail Blazers, 46.0% to 41.1%, from the floor. Los Angeles bested Portland from the foul line, 80.5% to 67.3%. • Brandon Roy led Portland with 21.7 points, 6.0 assists and 1.67 steals in his three games vs. the Lakers last season.
• Rudy Fernandez and the Lakers’ Pau Gasol were the two leading scorers on the Spanish National Team’s silver medal performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, falling to Nate McMillan and the United States in the championship game. • Lakers radio broadcaster Mychal Thompson played seven seasons for the Trail Blazers from 1978-86, averaging 16.7 points, 8.9 rebounds and 1.39 blocks in 551 games.

Probable Starters:

Portland: Los Angeles:

LaMarcus Aldridge Ron Artest

Nicolas Batum Lamar Odom

Marcus Camby Pau Gasol

Andre Miller Shannon Brown*

Brandon Roy Derek Fisher

* - Shannon Brown would be starting in place of Kobe Bryant, who's been out the past couple games for his finger, but he is probable for tonight's game.

In our last game against Dallas, we allowed their physicality and the officiating determine the outcome. If we want to come away with a win tonight, we need to really battle the Lakers and come out with urgency. The Lakers have really been struggling as of late with the loss of Andrew Bynum and if we battle down low and play the level of basketball this team is not only capable of but has proven this season, we can come away with one of the biggest wins of the season.

Go get it Portland!!

LA Clippers Preview

2010-04-07T18:09:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Blazers are in the city of angels to take on the Los Angeles Clippers! It'll be a night of reunions as Portland will take on ex-Blazers Steve Blake and Travis Outlaw for the first time since they were traded. Marcus Camby, center, will also be taking on his old team for the first time in a Blazers uniform.

• Portland has won five of the past six games and eight of the last 10 against the L.A. Clippers, including three straight wins at the Rose Garden. The Trail Blazers had beaten the Clippers in Los Angeles in four consecutive meetings before the Clippers earned a 105-95 victory the last time the teams met in Los Angeles on Jan. 4.

• The Trail Blazers lead this season’s series, 2-1, with the home team winning each game. Both teams have shot better than 50.0% from the floor (Portland, 50.2%; L.A. Clippers, 51.6%). Martell Webster leads all players in the series with 22.7 points in three contests, including a career-high tying 28 points (9-13 FG, 7-11 3-PT) Feb. 16 in Portland.
• In the first three games of the series, Portland has accumulated a 28-18 advantage in steals, turning the ball over 38 times while forcing 52 Clippers turnovers.
• The Trail Blazers bested the Clippers, 3-1, in the 2008-09 series, Portland’s second straight series win over the Clippers and 18th since they moved to Los Angeles in 1984-85.
• In four contests last season, the Trail Blazers outscored the Clippers, 107.0-91.8, and shot 48.7% from the floor while holding Los Angeles to 41.8% shooting.
• The Trail Blazers acquired Marcus Camby from the L.A. Clippers in exchange for Steve Blake, Travis Outlaw and cash considerations on Feb. 16. Camby averaged 8.0 points, 13.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 3.00 blocks against Portland in two meetings before the trade. In 269 games as a Trail Blazer, Blake averaged 8.9 points and 4.7 assists, while Outlaw posted averages of 9.6 points and 3.4 rebounds in 377 games with Portland.
• Andre Miller played with the L.A. Clippers in 2002-03, averaging 13.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.7 assists and 1.24 steals in 80 contests.
• Clippers forward/center Brian Skinner played 27 games for Portland in 2005-06, averaging 3.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 19.1 minutes.

The Clippers have lost 5 straight and 15 of their last 17 games. Whereas the Blazers are coming in fresh off a win in Sacramento on Saturday. Keeping momentum will be the kicker of this game. The Blazers tend to play down/up to the level of whoever their playing and if they give the Clippers any shred of hope tonight they can kiss a W goodbye. Since the trade deadline the Clippers have had some big wins and with Kaman, Gordon and Blakey holding them down they are definitely capable of coming out strong. I think with the looming threat of playoff positioning in mind though, B Roy won't let Portland come out with anything less than a win.

It'll be interesting to see how things play out with Steve Blake and Travis Outlaw though, (I have heard from a reputable source that Outlaw might now be playing tonight, which is fine with me. It'll hurt to see him suit up against us) seeing as to how close they were with all members of this team (sans Marcus Camby and Travis Diener of course). Hopefully we come and strong and have a big win tonight!

----

I know it's been awhile, and instead of clogging up the page with a bunch of re-caps I'll just recommend that you check out the sites linked in the sidebar for some excellent analysis and post/pre game articles!

LAKER NATION --- APRIL FOOLS

2010-04-01T01:15:00.000-07:00

*EDIT*
hah, got you good. Not gonna lie, changing my twitter layout was the most painful part but I love a good April Fools joke on the internet, I always love going to Google and seeing what kind of joke they play. But never fear Blazer fans, I have not gone to the dark side. I still hate the Lakers and live for the Blazers !

~~It's Laker Nation from now on y'all.~~

~~I loved my stint with the Blazers but hot damn I love my Lakers more.~~

~~It's been hard this past year suppressing my love for all things Lakers, Kobe Bryant and Ron Artest especially.~~

~~I'm working on a new layout and banner so the temporary one above will have to do for the time being.~~

~~We had a good run Blazer Nation but LAKER NATION IS WHERE IT'S AT!!~~

~~GO LAKERS!!!~~

Blazers Feel the Heat in the Valley of the Sun

2010-03-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday night, the Blazers traveled to Phoenix, Arizona to meet with the Phoenix Suns. The western conference playoff race is tighter than ever and a win tonight was necessary for both sides to secure positions going into the off season. The Blazers were coming into this game on a 5-game winning streak.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Marcus Camby
Nicolas Batum
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

Top honors go to Andre Miller for this game. He was one point off top scorer territory but still tallied a near double double with 22 points, 9 assists and 3 rebounds. Dre quite literally carried this team throughout this game. When things seemed dismal, Miller put his head down, penetrated the paint and got to the line. He looked like he was on the brink of another 50 point game for most of the game. It's amazing watching Andre push through games, when they call him Iron Man they literally mean it. The guy gets battered and bruised, rolls at least one ankle twenty times a game and still walked out to the court and gets things done for this team. To everyone, including myself, who doubted this guy I hope you are all smacking yourselves upside the head as I am doing now. Brandon Roy was the high scorer of the night with 23 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists. It was a Roy Bot kinda night where Brandon did what he could to keep the Blazers within reach of a win. He still didn't seem 100% though continuing some of the sloppy play that plagued the team against Washington.

Here's a Look at the Rest of the Box Score:

This game wasn't horrible by any means but it wasn't great. The Blazers came out of the gate slow and just couldn't overtake the Suns in the first half. Luckily we were able to keep pace with Phoenix only allowing them 47 points and tying them to end the half. The second half we started to finally see some energy from Portland and they were able to take a marginal lead but Phoenix rallied back with a vengeance and we just couldn't fully contain them. The Suns introduced a zone defense and completely shut our key players down. We couldn't get to the paint so it became 'Settle for Crappy Js Time!' Free Throws and confusion lost this game. We shot 72.9% (21-29) from the line and many of those misses came at crucial times in the game. The Suns' defense completely threw our guys off their game, sloppiness ensued and players started to frantically throw jumpers up. Their were chances to win this game but the Blazers just didn't capitalize on them. They ended up losing the game 93 - 87.

Photo of the Night:

Andre blocking an Amar'e dunk. Wait...Whaaaaat?

The Blazers next fly back home to welcome the Dallas Mavericks at the Rose Garden on Thursday. This game will be aired on CSN and TNT, tip off at 7:30 PM PST.

• Portland leads the series, 2-0, with both games contested in Dallas. The Trail Blazers have won twice in Dallas for the first season since 1998-99. One more win over the Mavericks would also give Portland its first series win over Dallas since 1998-99 (3-0).

• Andre Miller scored a career-high 52 points (22-31 FG), tied for the second-highest total in Trail Blazers history, in leading Portland to a 114-112 overtime win in Dallas in the last meeting on Jan. 30. Portland shot 53.5% (46-86) from the floor.

• Dallas had won 11 straight home contests over the Trail Blazers (Portland’s longest active road losing streak at the time), before Portland earned an 85-81 win in Dallas on Dec. 22 in the first series meeting between the teams. The Mavericks led in the fourth quarter by as many as seven points, but Portland used a 27-16 edge in the final period to claim the victory.

• In the two meetings between the teams this season, the Trail Blazers are shooting 47.3% from the field while limiting the Mavericks to 43.2% field goal shooting. Dallas has passed out 44 assists to Portland’s 30 assists in two contests. The Trail Blazers have posted a 16-8 margin in steals.

• In 2008-09, Dallas swept the season series (three games) for the fourth time in the last five seasons, accounting for the only four sweeps by the Mavericks in series history.

• The Mavericks outscored the Trail Blazers, 99.7.0-94.0, and outrebounded Portland, 40.0-35.3, in last year’s series. Dallas won all three games by single digits.

• Dallas Head Coach Rick Carlisle was an assistant coach of the Trail Blazers for three seasons under P.J. Carlesimo from 1994-97. Carlisle is 10-7 (.588) in his head coaching career against Portland.

• Dallas’ Matt Carroll played 13 games for Portland in 2003-04, averaging 1.0 points in 3.7 minutes.

• Martell Webster and Mavericks guard Jason Terry are cousins.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Get a Lucky Win Against Washington

2010-03-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Friday night, the Blazers welcomed the Washington Wizards to the Rose Garden. This was Portland's first game after a long four day rest, so it was important for the Blazers to come out strong and get back into game time rhythm.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Marcus Camby
Nicolas Batum
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

This game was ugly soooo let's just take a quick look at our top scorers. LaMarcus Aldridge tallied another double-double with 19 points, 12 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 blocked shot. LMA shot 6 - 17 from the field and 7 - 10 from the line, two of those made free throws came at the end of the game when the Blazers were down two. Not really much to say about the performance from LMA (or anyone else for that matter). It was mediocre, which is interesting to say when the guy got a double double, but it really was. The Wizards defense completely threw LMA and others off their game and even though shots were contested, they weren't contested enough to result in LMA and B Roy shooting a combined 10 - 35 from the field. Which brings us to Brandon, Roy tallied 14 points, 2 rebounds and 1 assist. True, two of those points came off a buzzer beating, game winner but I'm going to agree with Roy when he said, "If we play like this against Phoenix on Sunday, they'll destroy us." Too true B Roy, too true. For his 34th birthday, Andre Miller also tallied 14 points in his 600th conescutive game in the NBA. He also added 2 rebounds and 3 assists. The referees also celebrated Dre's b-day by giving him the wonderful present of a technical foul!

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

I won't bore/make you sick with long details from this game. We all know the Blazers don't do well with long breaks and that was evident Friday night. The players would never own up to it, but let's face it these guys were out of rhythm, out of sync, out of everything. The team shot a dismal 32% from the field, 16.7% from 3-pt range and tallied a total of 10 assists for the entire game. We were extremely lucky that the Wizards played the same caliber of basketball.

Photo of the night:

BRoy: "PHEW, we got lucky."

The Blazers next travel to Phoenix, AZ to take on former Blazer, Channing Frye and his Phoenix Suns on Sunday, tip-off t 7:30 PM PST on KGW channel 8.

• Portland has won four straight games in the series for the first time since a four-game win streak March 25-Dec. 5, 1999.
• The winning team has scored 100-plus points in 20 of the last 21 games in the series.
• The Trail Blazers lead this season’s series, 2-0, clinching a series win with Sunday’s contest being the last meeting between the teams this year. Portland will win the season series for the first time since 1999-2000, while a win Sunday would give the Trail Blazers their first sweep of the Suns since 1998-99 (three games).
• In two 2009-10 series games between the teams, Portland is shooting 51.6% from the field and 44.8% from three-point range, while Phoenix has shot 47.5% and 41.9%, respectively.
• The Trail Blazers won in Phoenix, 108-101, on Feb. 10 for the first time since Feb. 4, 2004, snapping a nine-game road losing streak in the series.
• Portland and Phoenix split last season’s series, with the home team winning all four games. Portland scored 110.3 points per game while allowing 109.3 points, both highs for the Trail Blazers in a Western Conference series last season.
• In 2008-09, Portland earned its first home sweep of Phoenix since 1998-99.

For Old Time's Sake:

Crash The Boards: As of late we've struggled with allowing the other team second chances by giving them the offensive board. Between Lopez and Stoudemire, PHX has tough guys who will scrap down low for the boards so we need our Marcuses tonight: LMA & Camby, crashing those boards.
Contain the perimeter: Phoenix has hot shooters. Remember that guy who used to sit on our bench, Channing Frye? That kid can shoot and so can Steve Nash, Richardson and others. Basically, if we give too many open looks for their shooters we'll be looking at a tough comeback and/or a big fat L.
Contain the paint: We tend to give too many points in the paint and that could be a serious problem tonight. Amar'e Stoudemire is coming off a season high game with 44 points. The guy is strong and can muscle his way to the hoop if you give him position down low. Not to mention, Dante Cunningham was last to posterize him so I'm sure he'll be looking for some pay back if Dante sees any minutes.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Off the Court News 2nd Edition

2010-03-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

Huge congrats go out to the Roy Bot!! Brandon Roy has been named the NBA Western Conference Player of the Week!

From USAToday:

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Portland Trail Blazers guard Brandon Roy has been named the NBA Western Conference Player of the Week.

The All-Star averaged 27 points while leading the Trail Blazers to four victories last week. He had 41 points in a comeback win at Golden State.

This is the fifth time Roy has won the award in his career. Clyde Drexler is the only other player in franchise history to win it that often.

WooHoo!! Roy definitely deserves this honor! He has been doing serious work for the Blazers this past week after finally getting back to his usual Roy Bot self! It's really exciting having Brandon get the recognition he deserves! Keep it up BRoy!

A side note, it's also exciting hearing Blazers head coach, Nate McMillan's name being thrown around in Coach of the Year considerations. It really is remarkable how Nate has taken this team, down and injured, and turned them into serious playoff contenders. Love him or hate him, you have to admit that he's doing something right getting this team into the playoffs and making them a real threat.

Lastly, Rudy Fernandez will be doing a signing TOMORROW in Salem, OR!

From Rudy's Twitter:

Tomorrow I will be at Capitol Subaru in Salem (OR) at 5,30 to sign autographs

Where:

2505 Mission Street Southeast

Salem, OR 97302
(503) 316-4294

When:

5:30 PM

Who/Why:

IT'S RUDY "EL MACHETERO" FERNANDEZ! That's Why.

View Larger Map

I've met Rudy once before at his Verizon Wireless signing late last year and it was a fantastic experience! Rudy was nice enough to talk to my good friend in NYC on the phone and was incredibly genuine and kind. I definitely suggest you make it down to Salem to meet him if you can, you won't regret it!

That's all your off the court news for now!

Hedont Hears The Music At The Rose Garden In A 109 - 98 Portland Win

2010-03-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Blazers met with the Toronto Raptors at the Rose Garden. This was Toronto's first and only trip to Portland this season and boy was Portland eager to ~~hate~~ welcome Hedo Turkoglu, who, if you recall, spurned the Blazers this past summer leading us all to believe he would be a Blazer this season only to back out last minute and go to the Raptors. Both teams are battling to keep their playoff positions in their respective conferences. Toronto, like Portland, is in the 8th seed and is looking for any win to keep their head above water.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge

Marcus Camby

Nicolas Batum

Andre Miller

Brandon Roy

MVP of the night goes to my main man, LaMarcus Aldridge! Aldridge had a fantastic double-double kinda night with 22 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 blocked shot and 1 very nasty dunk. Aldridge came out of the gate with aggression and a sense of urgency. He was all over the place scrappin' for the ball, getting to the hoop, crashing the boards and throwing it down with authority. LMA has been pretty quiet in the first halves of recent games but tonight he made sure he getting things done for this team from tip off. It's really nice to see LaMarcus getting the swing of things down low and making teams pay, especially in light a great article in the Columbian today, done by Brian Smith, where LaMarcus talked about his role on this team and his need to be aggressive down low. You can read that article HERE. Nicolas Batum had a big game as well also scoring 22 points to go with 2 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocked shots. Batum is getting more and more skilled every day and boy is it exciting to watch! Honorable mention goes out to Rudy Fernandez who had a great night with 12 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists while shooting 3 - 5 from beyond the arch.

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

This was a great game for the Blazers. They played aggressive, scrappy and with loads of intensity and got themselves a nice win. Going into this game we were all curious as to how Hedo Turkoglu would be accepted by the Portland crowd and they definitely let him know he is not welcome by booing during not only his introduction but every time he touched the ball. To the crowd's delight, the Blazer did an excellent job containing Turkoglu holding him to 14 points and getting him in foul trouble. The Blazers controlled this game from start to finish by keeping up with Toronto taking the lead and never looking back. The Rapotors were able to get within 2 during the fourth but the Blazers locked it down, got stops and came out with a 109 - 98 win. The Blazers are still in the 8th spot for the playoffs but they are now half a game out of the 7th spot and only 2 games out of the 5th spot! Hopefully this team really takes advantage of this 5 day break and gets work done so we can move on up in the standings!

Photo of the night:

L TRAIN COMING THROUGH.

The Blazers get to enjoy a nice 5 day break before taking on the Washing Wizards at the Rose Garden on Friday.

• The Wizards bested the Trail Blazers, 97-92, on Jan. 18 in the first game of this season’s series behind 28 points (10-16 FG) from former Wizard Antawn Jamison. LaMarcus Aldridge notched 22 points (9-17 FG) a game-best 15 rebounds (nine off.).

• Portland has won six of the past eight contests in the series, including four straight wins at the Rose Garden. Washington last won in Portland, 114-106, on March 28, 2005.

• Portland swept the two-game series between the teams in 2008-09, but the Wizards outshot the Trail Blazers 49.3% to 45.9% from the field and 48.4% to 41.9% from three-point distance.

• Brandon Roy led all Trail Blazers with 22.0 points to go with 6.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 5.00 steals in two games against Washington a season ago. Roy’s 10 steals on Jan. 24, 2009, in the last meeting between the teams at the Rose Garden, tied the franchise record for steals in a game.

• The Trail Blazers have never scored fewer than 80 points in 94 contests between the two teams.

(Pictures: OregonLive)

The Curse Is Broken -- 2-0 Cali Road Trip Gives McMillan 400 Wins

2010-03-13T12:30:00.000-08:00

Thursday night the Blazers traveled to Oakland, California to face the Golden State Warriors. The Blazers have notoriously played below par in Oracle Arena. In fact, the Blazers haven't won in Oakland in 9 games. Their last win in Oracle Arena was in November 2004. That being said, Portland was looking to break the Oracle Arena curse and take away a much needed win.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge

Marcus Camby

Nicolas Batum

Andre Miller

Brandon Roy

The MVP of the night was without a doubt Brandon Roy. Roy completely carried this team through 3 whole quarters and came away with a remarkable 41 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists (Assist count is low when you're the only one who can get the shots to drop if you know what I mean) and 2 steals. Roy shot 14 - 22 from the field and 13 - 17 from the line. This is why B Roy is an all star, his team was struggling on both ends of the court so Brandon took it upon himself to keep the Blazers in the game. Roy had been struggling trying to come back from his hamstring injury but I think his performance in the last couple games, this one especially proves Roy Bot is back with a vengeance and we couldn't be happier. Andre Miller took the silver spot with 15 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals and even a blocked shot. Money Miller shot 4 - 15 from the field and 7 - 8 from the line. LaMarcus Aldridge, despite a dismal first three quarters was able to sneak into third place with a huge 4th quarter! Aldridge scored only 4 points in the first three quarters, allowing Brandon Roy to take over but in the 4th, LMA gave his co-captain a break and went on to outscore the entire Golden State team with 10 points. The L-Train tallied 14 points, 8 rebounds and 1 assist. Thankfully LaMarcus got his stuff together in the 4th but we really need LaMarcus early in the game. We were lucky to scrape out this win but we can't simply depend on Brandon Roy to dig us out in future games and especially not in the playoffs.

Here's a Look At The Rest of the Box Score:

The beginning of this game made it seem as if the Oracle Arena curse had struck again and we would be looking at a big fat loss but thanks in large part to our all-star and undisputed leader, Brandon Roy we were able to scrape out a win. The fourth quarter is when this team came alive and realized they needed to start playing some serious basketball if they wanted to come out with the W. I don't know if someone kicked over the Gatorade cooler or something but some serious sense got knocked into the Blazers and they started playing with urgency and intensity. A big contribution to this win was getting the Warriors in foul trouble. Portland was able to get Ellis AND Maggette to foul out of the game and brought Stephen Curry to 5 fouls nearly fouling out himself. The Blazers got to the line 37 times and shot about 84%. All this contributed to a 110 - 105 win for Portland.

Photo(s) of the Night:

Just look at Rudy throwin' the three in Nelly's face.

You might have arrived 4 quarters late but you did arrive LMA.

The Blazers next played the second of back to back in California against the Sacramento Kings, whom we only just played at the Rose Garden earlier this week. Afyer a big come from behind win in Oakland the night before, Portland was looking for a blow-out to give them a 2 - 0 California road trip and give Coach McMillan his 400th win.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge

Marcus Camby

Nicolas Batum

Andre Miller

Brandon Roy

Roy is our MVP for the second night in a row with 28 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists. The RoyBot shot 10 - 13 from the field and a perfect 2 - 2 from beyond the arch and 6 - 6 from the line. Not too shabby considering he was coming off a 41 points in 42 minutes night. LaMarcus Aldridge stepped up his game (in the fourth quarter) and reclaimed the silver spot with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 1 blocked shot. Once again it took some time for LMA to find his rhythm but when he did it was smooth sailing to the finish line.

Here's a Look At the Box Score:

This game was a pretty smooth win for the Blazers. We took the lead early and were able to maintain it through to the end. There were some spots when the Kings made a run but the Blazers were able to keep their momentum and grab the win. We even got to see a little bit of newest Blazer, Travis Diener! The 6-1' point guard we acquired from the Indiana Pacers clocked his first minutes as a Blazers and showed that he's an extremely unselfish guy as he made plays and passed the ball instead of trying to get points on the board for himself. The guard didn't tally any points but he did come away with one assist. Diener seems like a pretty good guy but I'm not going to lie, I wanted some Patty Mills out there. Regardless, the Blazers were able to shut the game down and come away with a 110 - 94 win making this head coach, Nate McMillan's 400th career win! Congrats to the coach and the team!

Photo of the Night:

I can almost hear the infamous BayWatch: "HEEEEY?!" scream through this picture.

The Blazers next come back home to face former Blazer Jarrett "JSquared" Jack and the Toronto Raptors on Sunday night.

• The Trail Blazers have won three straight games in the series. Neither team has won more than three games consecutively in series history. A win Sunday would provide Portland with back-to-back season sweeps and its longest win streak vs. Toronto, all-time (four).

• Portland led by as many as 17 points in a 101-87 victory in Toronto in the first game of the series. Brandon Roy (20 points) and Andre Miller (18 points) led the way in scoring for the Trail Blazers. Miller’s 10 assists tied Roy’s record of 10 assists (Jan. 13, 2008) for the most by a Trail Blazer against the Raptors in series history.

• The Trail Blazers and Raptors had split the last five season series before Portland nabbed its first series win last year since 2002-03 and its fifth two-game sweep overall. Toronto only has one sweep over Portland in 13 series contested (1996-97).

• Portland outrebounded Toronto, 88-67, including a 30-16 margin on the offensive glass last season. The Trail Blazers gained a 35-23 edge in second-chance points.

• Brandon Roy notched team highs of 23.5 points (57.1% FG) and 8.0 assists in two contests vs. Toronto last year.

• Chris Bosh led Toronto with 24.0 points (15-15 FT) and 7.0 rebounds in two games vs. Portland a season ago. Bosh’s 38 points in Toronto’s Jan. 13, 2008, double overtime win are the most ever scored by a Raptor against the Trail Blazers.

• The Raptors did not miss a free throw against the Trail Blazers last season, shooting 25-for-25 from the line. Portland went 29- for-36 (80.6%) in two meetings.

• Brandon Roy logged his first career double-double on Dec. 22, 2006, against the Raptors, with 16 points and 10 rebounds to go along with eight assists.

• Rudy Fernandez plays on the Spanish National Team with Toronto guard Jose Calderon. Calderon matched the record for assists by a Raptor against the Trail Blazers with 13 on Dec. 7, 2008.

• Toronto guard Jarrett Jack posted 9.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists in three seasons with the Trail Blazers from 2005-08.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Best The Kings at the Rose Garden

2010-03-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

Tuesday night the Blazers welcomed the Sacramento Kings to the Rose Garden. For the Blazers this game was a must win. With the western conference as tight as it is, it is necessary to beat below .500 teams. Sacramento, who will not be making the playoffs this year, is simply holding on, winning what they can when they can until the regular season is finished.

Starting Cinco:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Marcus Camby
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

B Roy took back the leading scorer position with 19 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Roy had a much smoother game against the Kings but still had some rough spots. It's a shame that we can't count on made free throws from Roy right now but he did have a much better game and seemed to have a little more confidence in his shots. He shot 50% from the field and 3 - 7 from the line. Nico Batum and Andre Miller tied for second with 14 points a piece. Batum also tallied 2 rebounds and 2 assists while shooting 6 - 7 from the field while Dre added 2 rebounds and 5 assists while shooting 4 - 9 from the field and a perfect 6 - 6 from the line. LaMarcus Aldridge came in a close third with 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. If we want to stay alive in the playoffs at all we need to see more production from LMA and B Roy, I'm just puttin' that out there.

Here's A Look At The Rest Of The Box Score:

It was anything but perfect but it was a win. We had a big lead and saw it start to dwindle once again but luckily we were able to hold the kings off and get a win. One of the big plusses from this game is that we held a team that averages over 100 points a game down to 81. Good job team! We were also able to contain Tyreke Evans under 20 points when he averages a solid 20.3 points per game. Portland kept the Kings at 43% field goald shooting and scraped out the W 88 - 81. One discomforting factor that we saw tonight was that Marcus Camby really can't inbound the ball. The 6'11 power forward, we recently acquired from Los Angeles, had 4 turnovers in this game alone. Careful with that ball Marcus, it's precious! I'm not saying "oh no! we shouldn't have traded for him!" nor am I suggesting you say that but let's just keep Camby down low blocking shots and getting rebounds rather than handling the ball shall we? ;-) All in all it was a much needed win and the Blazers did what they had to do to get it.

Photo of the night:

Like a work of art.

The Blazers next travel to the dreaded Oracle Arena in Oakland, California to play the Golden State Warriors on Thursday.

• The Warriors have won nine straight games in Oakland and 13 of the last 18 meetings in the series overall. Portland last won the series, a 4-0 sweep, in 2002-03.

• Portland and Golden State have the split the first two games of the 2009-10 series, with each team winning at home. The Trail Blazers have earned an 88-73 rebounding edge, including a 30-22 margin on the offensive glass, in the two meetings.

• In two series contests, Brandon Roy leads Portland with 27.0 points per game (18-33 FG, 16-18 FT). Andre Miller has added 18.5 points per contest in two games.

• Golden State won last season’s series, 2-1, with the home team winning all three contests. The home team has won nine straight games in the series, including four in a row by the Trail Blazers in Portland.

• Both teams averaged better than 105 points per game (Portland, 105.7; Golden State, 105.3) in three meetings last year. The winning team has scored more than 100 points in each of the last 12 games in the series.

• The Trail Blazers gained a 125-112 rebounding advantage, including a 46-34 edge on the offensive glass, in three series games in 2008-09. Portland outscored Golden State in the paint, 144-110.

• The Warriors gained 30 points on the Trail Blazers in three games by shooting 90-for-100 (90.0%) from the free throw line last year. Portland went 60-for-77 (77.9%).

• Brandon Roy led the Trail Blazers with 26.0 points (58.0% FG, 6-9 3-PT), 5.3 assists and 2.67 steals (tied) in three games against the Warriors last season.

• Warriors Head Coach Don Nelson has coached more games vs. the Trail Blazers than any other active NBA head coach (52-53).

• Golden State television broadcaster Jim Barnett played in Portland’s inaugural season in 1970-71, averaging a team second-best 18.5 points per game.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Off the Court News

2010-03-09T17:37:00.000-08:00

Some off the court news was learned this week:

Bad news on the center front. Joel Przybilla, who was already out for the season, has re-ruptured his patella tendon. As released on IAmATrailBlazerFan.com:

PORTLAND, Ore. – Trail Blazers center Joel Przybilla will undergo surgery on his right patella tendon in the next few days.

Przybilla re-ruptured his right patella tendon Saturday morning after slipping in the shower at his home in Milwaukee, Wis.

He returned to Portland today to undergo an MRI, which revealed the rupture.

Przybilla originally ruptured the tendon in a Dec. 22 game at Dallas. He underwent season-ending surgery on Dec. 24 and was in Milwaukee rehabilitating the injury.

No timetable is available for his return to the court.

We have received another update regarding Przybilla's surgery:

PORTLAND, Ore. - Trail Blazers center Joel Przybilla underwent successful surgery this evening to repair a re-ruptured right patella tendon.

Dr. Don Roberts performed the two-hour procedure at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center in Vancouver, Wash.

No timetable has been set for his return to the court.

Przybilla originally ruptured his right patella tendon in a Dec. 22 game at Dallas and underwent season-ending surgery on Dec. 24. He re-ruptured the tendon March 6 after slipping in the shower at his home in Milwaukee, Wis., where he was rehabilitating.

Przybilla, 30, averaged 4.1 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.43 blocked shots in 30 games (nine starts) this season before the injury. A six-year Trail Blazer, he ranks sixth in franchise history with 593 blocked shots.

While we are extremely happy to hear that Joel's surgery was successful and he is resting well, this is a major blow for the Blazers. No timetable has been set but I think it's safe to say that Przy might not be back on the court for the start of the 2010-2011 season. Joel is in a contract year where he can opt out if he wants but I think he will be staying with the Blazers because there is no market for injured centers. Joel is a tough guy so I think we will see him back on the court but it's going to be a long process. Przy is getting up there in age and an injury like this where you're dealing with a re-rupture takes a toll physically and mentally. We can only hope Joel is able to make a strong recovery and get back out on the court!

Thank goodness we acquired Marcus Camby! He becomes a free-agent this summer but hopefully he will have enjoyed his time in Portland and be willing to re-sign with us next year meaning he and Oden will dominate for us at the 5 spot.

Also, though no longer a Blazer we still love Steve Blake and we wish to offer him and his wife Kristen the biggest congratulations as they are preparing to welcome Baby Blake # 3!! Kristen announced on her twitter tonight that she and Steve are expecting a baby boy!
Via Kristen's twitter:
Steve and I are excited to welcome Baby Boy Blake #3 this August. Yup-another boy!! Steve wants his own bball team. We're gettin there. =)
CONGRATS BLAKEY FAMILY!
Lastly, last week Blazers signed guard, Travis Diener!

Diener has career averages of 4.9 points per game, 2.5 assits per game and 1.4 rebounds per game. He will be wearing jersey number 27 for the Blazers. Though it looks like this signing was just to provide a back up veteran point guard in case Andre Miller goes down, we welcome Travis to Portland none the less. I am a little disappointed that this move makes it seem like Nate has little trust in Patty Mills and it definitely means that Mills will continue to see little to no playing time but we wish Travis the best and hope he does great things in his time here!
That's all your off the court news for now!

Nuggets Dominate In Denver

2010-03-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

Last night the Blazers traveled to Denver to meet with the Denver Nugget. After a season of ups and downs the Blazers were looking for a big divisional win to help launch them ahead of the pack in a tight western conference race to the playoffs.

Starting Five:
LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Juwan Howard
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

Top honors of the night go to none other than BayWatch 2010, Jerryd Bayless! JBay had a fantastic night tallying 24 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists shooting 6 - 10 from the field, 9 - 11 from the line and a big 3 - 3 from beyond the arch. BayWatch was getting to hoop, getting to the line, distributing the ball and making great things happen for this team. I couldn't be more proud of Jerryd. Since his career night at home against Phoenix, Bayless has been struggling to find that kind of rhythm he had earlier in the season. We've seen frustration on JBay's face one too many times so it was a nice change to see a smile last night. Keep up the good work JBay, BayWatch 2010 will continue! The next big story of the night was Andre "Money Time/My Main Man" Miller. Dre tallied 19 points, 1 rebound and 2 assits shooting 7 - 15 from the field and 5 - 6 from the line. The biggest moment of Dre's game last night had to be his earth shattering posterizing dunk on Aaron Affalo. We've only seen Miller jump maybe 2 feet off the ground and then all of a sudden Dre soars and slams. The looks of Jerryd Bayless and the rest of the guys when Dre threw down the hammer was absolutely priceless. That's one moment I will not soon forget.

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

From the start to the finish of this game the Blazers struggled both offensively and defensively. There was no sense of urgency going into the first quarter and we didn't see any life until the second half. There seemed to be little to no communication on defense and one too many times we saw sharp shooters like J.R. Smith left wide open to knock down the three. We shot 75% from the line and missed some crucial free throws that could have kept us closer to a win down the stretch and most of all, our all stars were not present in this game. Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge shot a combined 9 - 28 from the field. I think that hurt us most of all. LaMarcus did make some big shots towards the end keeping the score close but he and B Roy were absent for the rest. Brandon just couldn't find any rhythm and missed consecutive layups and instead of hustling back on defense made it clear to the referees that he wanted a foul. I love Brandon Roy and will follow him to the ends of the earth because he is our leader and all star but he was just not on his game last night. I honestly think Nate should've sat him down instead of giving him 40 minutes to shoot 3 - 14. If we want to be a playoff threat and get somewhere this post-season we need LaMarcus and Brandon 100% and fully involved in games. The Nuggets ended up winning 118 - 106.

Photo of the Night:

I really hope you have more dunks in you Dre because I want to witness that live.

The Blazers next come back home to face Portland native, Ime Udoka and the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, '90s night at the Rose Garden.

• Portland overcame an 11-point halftime deficit and finished on a 12-3 run to outlast Sacramento, 95-88, Dec. 15 at the Rose Garden in the only meeting of the series. Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge both scored 25 points, and Roy added a season-high 10 assists.

• The Trail Blazers swept Sacramento, 3-0, in last year’s series for the first time since posting a 4-0 win over the Kings in 1999-2000.

• Portland outscored Sacramento, 105.7-87.7, in three wins a season ago. The Trail Blazers shot 45.6% from the field while holding the Kings to a 42.7% clip.

• The Trail Blazers outrebounded Sacramento, 145-99, in three games last year, including a 50-25 edge on the offensive glass that led to a 53-14 advantage in second-chance scoring. Portland’s 59 rebounds vs. Sacramento on Dec. 16 marked a season best.

• Portland does not travel to Sacramento in 2009-10 until March 12, the second-to-last NBA team the Trail Blazers will visit (L.A. Lakers). Portland visits ARCO Arena again on April 3.

• Seven of Portland’s 16 home losses all-time to the Kings have occurred this decade (Portland is 13-7). The Trail Blazers were 60-9 at home vs. Sacramento before 2000.

(Photos: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Set the Pace With A Blow Out Win Against Indiana

2010-03-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night the Blazers welcomed the Indiana Pacers to the Rose Garden on their first game back at home after a successful 4 - 1 road trip on the east coast. The Pacers have been struggling all season and the Blazers were looking to take advantage of that and get a smoothe win at home.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Marcus Camby
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

Brandon Roy was the high scorer of the night with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists in 31 minutes of play. Roy shot 6 - 16 from the field and 10 - 11 from the line. LaMarcus Aldridge took the second spot with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assist in a mere 25 minutes of play. LMA got a whole lotta rest in this game, yay for big leads. The big news of this game is the resurgence, once again, of Rudy Fernandez. El Machetero had a great game tallying 16 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists shooting 5 - 12 from the field and a big 50% from beyond the arch. Rudy sure found his rhythm against the Pacers and helped lead this team to a good win, not to mention the Spaniard clocked in a good 30 minutes of play. Keep it up El Machetero!

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

The Blazers played extremely well in this game. As soon as we took a big lead Portland was able to keep it, for the most part the closest Indy ever got within was 7, and come out with a nice big win. After a number of close games, over times and heart breakers it was really nice to see Portland come away with a good ol' fashion blow out. The stars alligned for Rudy tonight and I couldn't be happier for him. His shots were falling, he was able to run the point well and made things happen for this team. He was so into the zone that when he shot a three in Hibbert's face he proceeded to let out a big ol' smile and Hibbert who took it as a slap in the face and went on to get a little bit too physical with Jeff Pendergraph, who took on the role of protector. Pendo and Hibbert were both slapped with a technical and the game went on. Gotta love Jeff's intensity and willingness to get physical. Hopefully he doesn't make it too much of a habit since he's still on a rookie salary, don't think he can afford too many techs. The Blazers were able to cruise to a 102 - 79 win.

Photo of the night:

Rudy, you rock those streamers tonight because your 16 points were big for us!

The Blazers get a nice three day break and next travel to Denver to take on league rivals, the Denver Nuggets.

• The Nuggets have won 19 of the last 26 meetings with the Trail Blazers, including 11 of 12 games played between the teams in Denver, with Portland’s only road win during that stretch coming on Dec. 16, 2007.
• Portland and Denver have split the first two games of this season’s series, 1-1, with both games contested at the Rose Garden. The Trail Blazers have shot 40.0% (16-40) from three-point range but just 43.3% overall in the two meetings. Portland holds the advantage in assists, 42-25, in the two games.
• Brandon Roy has averaged 35.5 points (52.4% FG), including a 41-point effort on Christmas Day, in two series games vs. the Nuggets this season.
• All four games between Portland and Denver this season will be played in front of a national audience, counting four of Portland’s 16 scheduled nationally televised games this year.
• The Trail Blazers and Nuggets split the series for the second straight season in 2008-09, with the home team winning each game.
• Portland shot 46.8% from the field (41.9% 3-PT) in four series contests last season while limiting Denver to 43.8% shooting (33.9% 3-PT).
• Andre Miller played for Denver for three-plus seasons from 2003-06, posting averages of 14.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 7.3 assists and 1.51 steals in 269 games. Miller averaged 16.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.53 steals in 15 playoff games with the Nuggets.
• Nuggets assistant coach Tim Grgurich worked two stints as an assistant coach for Portland from 1998-2001 and 2004-05.
• Denver General Manager and the NBA’s reigning Executive of the Year Mark Warkentien worked 10 seasons for the Trail Blazers, ending in 2003-04, including stints as assistant general manager and director of player personnel.

(Pictures: OregonLive & Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Go 4 - 1 On Their Final East Coast Road Trip

2010-03-02T01:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Blazers traveled to Memphis, Tennessee to conclude their last east coast road trip of the season. Going into this game the Blazers were 3 - 1 and a win was vital to keep them alive in the 8th position of the western conference. Memphis, who will probably not be making an appearance in the playoffs, has done extremely well on the road but has struggled at home so the hope was that the Blazers could take home a nice win to close out this roadie.

Starting Cinco:

LaMarcus Aldridge

Nicolas Batum

Marcus Camby

Andre Miller

Brandon Roy

Top honors of the night go to Brandon Roy who brought his A game tonight and tallied 25 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 big steals. Tonight we saw the B Roy of old (before his hammy injury that it) who played scrappy, dove to the floor for the ball and put his head down and got to the hoop. He shot 7 - 18 from the field and 2 - 6 from three point range but depended on getting to line shooting a perfect 6 -6. The past couple games have shown a stronger, more confident B Roy and hopefully all the time off coming up in March will do him and his evil hamstring some good. Nicolas Batum continued to the BATUM-SHAKA-LAKA national tour with 21 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 big blocked shot. Third quarters are proving to be really good to Batum as most of his points were recorded then. Nico played with extreme aggression and precision once again and as I've said before, I will say again that I can not wait to see where this kid's talent leads him (he's got my all-star vote. just sayin'). Though Dante Cunningham only clocked in about 4 minutes and 5 points, I'm giving him a big shout out because let's face it, the Inferno came off the bench and was an immediate spark for the Blazers. The first half was extremely ugly for us but when Dante came in he provided energy on both ends of the floor and gave us some sweet dunks. Juwan had some high lights but most of his play was not good and it was disappointing that just because Dante had a little problem with Zach Randolph down low he was immediately taken out, despite the fact that in his short time he was making big things happen for us. Give the rook' a chance Nate (TEAM DANTE)!

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

The first half of this game was really rough for the Blazers. They were playing sloppy with little energy but luckily someone talked some sense into this ball club resulting in a complete turn around in the third quarter. Jerryd Bayless made some good (and not so good) plays even though the poor kid couldn't buy a foul. Brandon Roy and Nicolas Batum went crazy scrapping for the ball and getting to the hoop and they started knocking down crucial shots. Marcus Camby also had a huge effect on the game because he was able to get us some much needed rebounds and hustle. LaMarcus had a pretty quiet night with 13 points and 2 rebounds but he made up for that with 4 big steals. Unfortunately foul trouble kept his minutes low in the third. Fast breaks were huge for us in the final stretch of the game. We outscored Memphis 23 - 17 on fast break points. In my keys to this match, I was correct that the first team to reach 100 would come out with the win as Portland took the game 103 - 93.

Photo(s) Of the Night:

The Spaniard Struggle. *Team Fernandez*

JBayWatch 2010 continues....

Oooh Infernoooooo!

The Blazers next travel back home to play the Indiana Pacers at the Rose Garden on Wednesday! NOTE: To any fans attending the game or who can make it out to the RG anyway (you don't need a ticket to attend this) there will be another Blazer Tweet-Up! We will be meeting by the fountains at the Ford Tent. There should be a tent with a sign that says Tweet-Up. Again, you don't need a ticket to the game to attend the tweet-up so go if you can make it because who knows, you might just win yourself a ticket to the game while you're there! More info HERE.

• Brandon Roy’s 29 points (11-21 FG) guided the Trail Blazers to a 102-91 victory at Conseco Fieldhouse on Dec. 9. Portland led by just two points heading into the fourth quarter, but a 25-16 edge in the final period gave the road team its biggest win in Indianapolis since 1990.

• In 2008-09, the Trail Blazers swept the two-game series with the Pacers for the first time since 2002-03.

• Portland snapped its nine-game losing streak to Indiana, Portland’s longest losing streak against any team in the NBA at the time, with a 107-105 triumph March 4, 2009, in Portland.

• Brandon Roy’s 24.0 points were the most by any player who appeared in both games of the series last season.

• Indiana shot 46.1% from the floor and 41.9% from three-point distance while holding Portland to 43.9% shooting from the field and a 35.3% mark from downtown in 2008-09.

• The Trail Blazers gained 17 points from the foul line in two games last year, shooting 40-for-50 (80.0%) compared to a 23-for-31 (74.2%) mark for the Pacers.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Sweep The Timberwolves In a 110 - 91 Win

2010-02-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

Last night the Blazers played the second in a back to back against the Timberwolves in Minnesota. After a devastating loss in overtime against Chicago the night before, the Blazers were looking for a strong win propelling them into their Monday game at Memphis. The Timberwolves on the other hand have had a rough season and were looking for a good win to help them go towards the end of the season with some positives to look back on.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Marcus Camby
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

Top honors of the night go to none other than Frenchy himself, Nicolas Batum! Batum had an outstanding night with a career high 31 points and 7 assists! Not to mention he was in triple double territory with 7 rebounds as well. Nico has been consistently doing great things since his return from shoulder surgery and I couldn't be happier with his progression. LaMarcus Aldridge continued his excellent play from the night before with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists. For the past couple games LaMarcus has been a major factor for the Blazers. He's been extra aggressive on both ends of the court and has out hustled the other teams. It's great to see all this energy from LaMarcus. You can tell he's happy to have Brandon Roy back on the court because when he was gone, he was the number one go-to guy and now he has his co-captain back sharing the responsibilities. The Euro Connection was in full affect tonight as Rudy Fernandez also had himself a good night with 18 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist. Rudy seems to be finding his touch again and is gaining more and more confidence on the court.

Here's A Look At The Rest Of the Box Score:

After a rough loss in OT the night before, the Blazers came out with extra energy pushing them to a pretty easy win over Minnesota. The number of jumpshots we were taking made me nervous but luckily we were able to live by the J last night. Nicolas Batum, what more can you say about his performance? The guy went crazy on both ends of the court showing everyone how the game of basketball is meant to be played. I know Nico won't be having 30+ every night but I'm glad he was able to have a great night giving him confidence going into the sprint to playoffs. Also, I have to give a shoutout to the Euro Connection as Rudy and Nico were making big shots and helping each other do it! AND we can not forget to give a big shoutout to the Aussie, Patty Mills was able to get himself a career high 8 points! Congrats Patty! All this Blazer energy led to a 110 - 91 win over the TWolves. This win gave the Blazers the best record on the second of a back to back in the NBA so far with 12 - 3.

Photo(s) Of the Night:

BATUM SHAKA-LAKA! Go get yours Nico!

The Blazers next travel to Memphis, Tennessee to take on ex-Blazer, Zach "ZBo" Randolph and his Memphis Grizzlies.

• Memphis leads the season series, 2-1, with the road team winning each game. The Grizzlies have won just one four-game series between the teams in series history (3-1, 2004-05), and their two-game winning streak is one shy of a series best for Memphis.
• The Trail Blazers have won the last six contests in Memphis, Portland’s longest current road winning streak against any team.
• In three meetings this year, Portland has shot 42.4% from beyond the arc and 46.3% overall, while Memphis has shot 47.7% from the field and 36.7% from deep.
• Brandon Roy’s 24.3 points and 8.3 assists in three series meetings lead all players, while Martell Webster has added 18.0 points (51.4% FG) in three contests.
• O.J. Mayo’s 21.0 scoring average (54.0% FG) has led Memphis in the series. Zach Randolph (19.7 ppg, 11.7 rpg) and Marc Gasol (19.0 ppg, 11.0 ppg) have averaged double-doubles in their three appearances vs. Portland this season.
• Portland swept Memphis last season for the second consecutive year by winning all four series contests in the span of 49 days, from Feb. 18 to April 7. The Trail Blazers averaged a 9.5-point margin of victory (94.8-85.3) in the four wins.
• Greg Oden and Memphis guard Mike Conley played together on Ohio State’s NCAA runner-up team in 2006-07 and at Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis.
• Rudy Fernandez and Grizzlies center Marc Gasol are both members of the Spanish National Team, which finished second to the USA in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
• Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph averaged 16.0 points (46.6% FG), 7.7 rebounds and 28.9 minutes in 387 games for Portland from 2001-07.
• Memphis Head Coach Lionel Hollins played five seasons for Portland from 1975-80, posting averages of 13.6 points, 4.4 assists and 1.90 steals. Hollins and Memphis assistant coach Johnny Davis played together on Portland’s 1976-77 NBA Championship team.
• Grizzlies assistant coach Damon Stoudamire played for Portland from 1997-2005, averaging 12.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 5.7 assists.

Get stops, play defense - Memphis has been known to go on big runs against us. We have been able to bring it back in some games but in others the deficit was just too great. In our last game, we allowed Memphis to go on a 21 - 0 run between the first and second quarters allowing them a 32 - 15 lead and they never trailed for the rest of the game.
Beat them to the line - We've been really good at getting to the line and getting the other team in the penalty early in recent games and that should definitely continue tomorrow. I am counting on you Jerryd Bayless, Brandon Roy, Andre Miller and LaMarcus Aldridge! Put your head down and get to that line!
Crash the Boards - Zach randolph has been crashing the boards for Memphis, especially on the offensive end, he leads the NBA with 4.3 offensive rebounds per game. Last game agains the Knicks, he also tallied a career high 25 rebounds. That's huge for them and we need to make sure we do everything we can to keep them off the baords. (That means you Marcuses! LaMarcus/Marcus)
Beat them to 100 - I have a feeling that whoever reaches 100 first tonight will take the game. We have a losing streak against teams who reach the centennial before we do so lets get ourselves some chalupas!!
Watch Their Js - Memphis is 15-5 this season when making as many or more three-pointers than its opponent, so we need to protect beyond the arch if their Js start to fall and it'd be really nice to see a Marty Marty Downtown Party or a (....Rudy Party?) streak from Rudy or Nico.

Though it is looking like Memphis won't be making the playoffs, it is crucial that we get a win tomorrow. We're coming up close behind San Antonio so all games are critical from here on out. Come on Blazers, finish strong!

Also, a Happy Early Birthday is due for former Blazer Brian Grant who will be celebrating his big day on March 5th!!

Lastly, here is a little video I took from the season ticket holder party a couple weeks ago of the players being introduced. WARNING turn your speakers down, Blazer fans know how to get loud.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Bulls Best The Blazers

2010-02-27T14:25:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Blazers met with the Chicago Bulls in Chi Town. The Blazers were 2 - 0 on their roadie going into this game and were hoping to make that 3 - 0 after this game.

Starting 5:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Marcus Camby
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy

Marcus Camby returned from an ankle sprain in this game and immediately made a difference on the boards and defense especially. Camby finished the game with 9 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 3 blocked shots. The high scorer of the night was none other than LaMarcus Aldridge who had a spectacular game with a season high 32 points to go along with 7 rebounds, and 1 steal. LaMarcus was extremely aggressive down low, got position and boxed out nicely. My favorite play of the night had to be when Brandon Roy was at the line for two, he missed the first and missed the second on purpose because he trusted LaMarcus to do his thing which was tipping in the ball! That was a huge bucket for the Blazers. It really is a shame that LaMarcus' best game of the season came with a loss. Brandon Roy took silver last night with 23 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists. It seemed like BRoy was just off tonight for most of the game, now 23 points is pretty good for an off night but it just seemed like he wasn't 100% throughout the game. Jerryd Bayless had a great game as well with 15 points, 2 assists and 2 steals. You can always count on JBay to get you to the line and Nate put him in when we were able to get Chicago in the penalty early and Bayless put his head down and racked up the free throws shooting 5 - 6 from the line.

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

This game presented way too many opportunities for the Blazers to take the win but we just weren't able to close it out. Sloppy play from the Bulls kept letting us back in all the way through overtime but the Blazers were never able to take advantage of that. LaMarcus had an excellent game but unfortunately that just wasn't enough. Our offense late in the game completely fell apart as it has in past games. Teams live and die by the jumper and in this game Chicago lived and we died. Bulls went on to win the game in OT 115 - 111.

Photo(s) Of the Night:

LMA throwin' it down with authority against the Bulls (who traded him to us back in the day) way to go L Train!!

The Blazers next head to Minnesota to play the Timberwolves on the second of a back to back.

• Portland has won 11 consecutive games vs. Minnesota, its longest current winning streak against any NBA team. The Trail Blazers have taken eight meetings in a row at the Rose Garden and five straight games at the Target Center.

• The matchup marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season, with Portland winning each of the first three games by 23 points or more, accounting for three of its four largest wins of the year. The Trail Blazers have outrebounded the Timberwolves, 138-102, and held the advantage in assists, 93-46. Portland has shot 51.7% from the field (42.2% 3-PT) in the three contests, compared to 42.2% shooting by Minnesota.

• Portland’s 23-point margin of victory, 107-84, on Nov. 11 against the Timberwolves marked its largest win in Minnesota in franchise history.

• Nine Trail Blazers have averaged at least 8.0 points in their games against the Timberwolves this season, led by Greg Oden (15.0) and Martell Webster (15.0).

• The Timberwolves have failed to reach 100 points in each of the last 13 meetings between the teams, with Portland hitting triple figures eight times in that span.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Go 2 - 0 With a Win Across The Border

2010-02-24T22:08:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Blazers went across the border to Toronto to take on the Raptors. Newly acquired center, Marcus Camby was out for Portland with an injured ankle but Toronto had an ankle injury of their own with Chris Bosh, who also sat out. After a too close for comfort game last night against New Jersey, Portland was looking for a strong win to go 2 - 0 on this road trip so far.

Starting Five:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Nicolas Batum
Brandon Roy
Andre Miller
Juwan Howard

This was Portland's 14th different starting line-up this season! It's rough being unhealthy. Top honors of the night,
I'm happy to say, go to EL MACHETERO! That's right ladies and gents, Rudy Fernandez played, undoubtedly, his best game since coming back from back surgery earlier this season. No he didn't score the highest but his performance gives him the gold tonight. The 6'6 Spanish guard tallied 17 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal. Tonight we saw a much more aggressive and confident Rudy who carefully calculated his movements and made things happen for this team, not to mention he clocked in a good 31 minutes of play. See Rudy, when you play like this you get minutes!!! When you play like you were playing...you don't get minutes. Crazy how things work like that. Brandon Roy was the top scorer of the night with 20 points that went along with 5 rebounds and 5 assists. It's great to see B Roy getting back in the swing of things and I'm sure that if he wouldn't have had a 20+ night tonight we would not have gotten the win ('specially since LMA had a forgettable night - 9 points, 2 rebounds). Andre Miller had a fantastic night as well with a near triple double, 18 points, 10 assists and 7 rebounds. Miller has been such a vital player for this team, anyone who thinks otherwise is obviously not paying attention. The guy is putting up double figures in scoring and assists, so when you think about it, technically Dre had an extra 20 points on those 10 assists! Keep it up Dre, we need you!

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

The Blazers got their act together tonight for this win but that doesn't mean there weren't spots of adversity. Once again, Portland saw themselves with a 15 points lead and watched that lead decrease quickly. Portland needs to sit down and learn how to get a lead and hold on to it! Besides that we played a pretty good game of basketball. The Blazers came out with a sense of urgency and got the job done. Portland won the game 101 - 87.

Photo of the Night:

GO GET IT OL' MAN! Juwan throwin it down, proving he's 37 years YOUNG.

The Blazers next travel to Chi-Town to take on the Chicago Bulls on Friday at 5 PM PST.

• Portland has won five straight games in the series, tied for its second-longest active
streak against any NBA opponent (Minnesota, 11; San Antonio/New Jersey, 5).
• The Trail Blazers won, 122-98, Nov. 23 in Portland in the first game of the series behind
double-doubles from LaMarcus Aldridge (24 points, 13 rebounds) and Greg Oden (24
points, 12 rebounds). Portland shot 57.5% (42-73) from the floor.
• In 2008-09, Portland swept Chicago for the second consecutive season and the 10th
time in franchise history. The Trail Blazers won by an average of 28 points in two games
(112.5-84.5), their largest average margin of victory against any team last year, while the
112.5 points marked their highest scoring average against any opponent a season ago.
• Portland’s 42-point win (116-74) against Chicago on Nov. 19, 2008, marked the Trail
Blazers’ largest margin of victory since Nov. 17, 1997 (120-75 win vs. Dallas), and Port-
land’s biggest win vs. Chicago, all-time.
• The Trail Blazers held the Bulls to 38.9% field goal shooting and a 14.3% (4-28) mark
from downtown, both lows by a Portland opponent last season, in two Trail Blazers wins
in 2008-09. Portland converted on 48.7% of its field goal attempts (18-39 3-PT).

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Start Off Their Last East Coast Road Trip Of The Season Right

2010-02-23T23:10:00.000-08:00

The Blazers met with the New Jersey Nets in frigid New Jersey at the IZOD Center tonight. The Nets, the worst team in the league, were looking for their 6th win of the season and the Blazers were looking to bounce back after a rough loss at home against the Jazz.

Starters:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Marcus Camby
Brandon Roy
Andre Miller
Nicolas Batum

Nico moved back into the starting rotation tonight in place of Martell Webster and didn't do a whole lot offensively but had his very own Batum Block Party with 3 blocks. Nicolas has been huge for us on defense and continued to have an impact defensively for us tonight. Brandon Roy played as close to 100% as we've seen since his return to the court and tallied 28 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. That hamstring looked great out there tonight allowing B Roy to get back to his usual fade away, drive to the hoop self. LaMarcus Aldridge also had an amazing night with 27 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. LMA has scored 15+ points in the last 18+ games! Aldridge has been playing with a new sense of urgency. Though having B Roy and GO go down was rough, I think it's done huge things for LaMarcus' confidence and aggression. Consistently we've seen LMA go to the center of the key, draw contact and knock down the and 1. Keep it up LaMarcus!

Here's a look at the rest of the Box Score:

The Blazers led most of the game by big numbers but just like Sunday, their lead started to dwindle and Portland allowed New Jersey back in allowing them within 7 at one point. Luckily, the Blazers got their act together and closed in on defense and picked the lead back up to win 102- 93. Big news of the night for Portland though was Marcus Camby and no the news was not very good. After 5 minutes of play, Camby got his ankle stepped on by Brook Lopez and Marcus immediately went down. CENTERS OF THE TRAIL BLAZERS BEWARE!! Fortunately, Camby's X-Ray was negative so as of now he is listed as day to day. Hopefully it's a simple sprain and he'll be back in action against the Bulls or Timberwolves. What a tough injury though, I bet the guys really think that position is cursed.

Photo Of the Night:

It's good to have you and your hammy back B Roy.

The Blazers play the second game in a back to back tomorrow night in Toronto against the Raptors. This will be another early game for us west coasters, tip off is at 4 PM PST on CSNW.

Toronto is the last of all 29 NBA opponents to face Portland this season. The teams have not met in more than a calendar year, since Dec. 27, 2008.
The Trail Blazers and Raptors had split the last five season series before Portland nabbed its first series win last year since 2002-03 and its fifth two-game sweep overall. Toronto only has one sweep over Portland in 13 series contested (1996-97).
Portland outrebounded Toronto, 88-67, including a 30-16 margin on the offensive glass last season. The Trail Blazers gained a 35-23 edge in second-chance points.
Brandon Roy notched team highs of 23.5 points (57.1% FG) and 8.0 assists in two contests vs. Toronto last year. His 10 assists in Portland’s double overtime loss on Jan. 13, 2008, in Toronto are the most recorded by a Trail Blazer in the 13-year history of the series.
Chris Bosh led Toronto with 24.0 points (15-15 FT) and 7.0 rebounds in two games vs. Portland a season ago. Bosh’s 38 points in Toronto’s Jan. 13, 2008, double overtime win are the most ever scored by a Raptor against the Trail Blazers.
The Raptors did not miss a free throw against the Trail Blazers last season, shooting 25-for-25 from the line. Portland went 29-for-36 (80.6%) in two meetings.

Bringin' it Back:

Contain Chris Bosh - Bosh has consistently led the Raptors against Portland in their past match-ups averaging 19.2 points in nine games against the Blazers. If we can contain Bosh to under 20, it'll be a good game.
Ciao Bargnani - Andrea has also been a big part of Toronto's wins averaging 17.5 points per game and leads the team in made three-pointers (81), three-pointers attempted (221) and blocks (80). It'll be interesting to see who Nate matches up with Andrea, LaMarcus, Juwan, Dante or Jeff. Toronto has a lot of shooters including Bargnani so they'll look to spread the floor and we can't let wide open shots fall for them.
Gotta Make Your Free Throws - It's been painful in the past couple games to see guys go to the line. Tonight against NJ, we did well shooting 82% but that needs to continue. Free throws make or break a game y'all and Toronto with the help of former Blazer, Jarett Jack will do everything they can to get to the line, so we need to beat them there.
*UPDATE* Chris Bosh will be out tonight, as will Marcus Camby - Chris Bosh is a centerpiece of this Raptors team so we need to take advantage of that fact and attack the paint! Having Camby out just means that between Juwan, Dante, Jeff and LaMarcus, fouls need to be kept at a minimum and they need to work that much harder once again on defense since there's no true center to back them up.

(Pictures: Yahoo Sports)

Blazers Blow a 25 Point Lead Resulting in a Jazz Win

2010-02-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Last night the Blazers took on the Utah Jazz at the Rose Garden. After an embarrassing match for Portland when the Jazz last came to the RG, the Blazers were looking for a nice division win.

Starting Five:
LaMarcus Aldridge
Brandon Roy
Martell Webster
Marcus Camby
Andre Miller

Brandon Roy played better than we've seen as of late and was the high scorer of the night with 23 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 blocked shot on 34 minutes of action. He shot 7 - 15 from the field and 7 - 11 from the free throw line. Andre Miller tallied 17 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals in 39 minutes of play. He shot 5- 18 from the field and 7 - 9 from the free throw line. LaMarcus Aldridge was huge for us in the first half but foul trouble caused him to foul out late in the game and he walked away with 15 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 blocked shot.

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

This game was definitely a frustrating one for Blazer fans everywhere. The Blazer came out with intensity and played a great first half, only allowing the Jazz to lead 8 - 6 at the beginning of the game. The Blazer lead continued, getting to 25 points at one point and things seemed to be in Portland's favor, but the fourth quarter came along and Portland struggled once again. LaMarcus Aldridge got in foul trouble and was forced to watch most of the 3rd on the bench and things continued to go down hill from there. The 25 point lead kept going down, down and down until the Jazz were finally within 2 with less than 10 seconds left. Carlos Boozer tipped in a lay up and we went to overtime. OT has never been very pretty for the Blazers this season and this one was no different. Portland started the OT with missed jumpers and poor defense which allowed the Jazz to cruise to a 93 - 89 win. I love this team and that'll never change but losses like these make me so frustrated! I've never been a Nate McMillan hater but you have to wonder what he was or wasn't telling his team as their lead kept declining. It just seems ridiculous to me that we were ahead by at least 20 for a good 3 quarters and then we just let the Jazz back in. You have to close that door Blazers!! Get a lead and keep it please, for the fans' blood pressure sakes at least.

Photo of the Night:

You better look over your should DWills cause BATUM's BLOCK PARTY is coming for you!

Portland next takes on the New Jersey Nets as they start their last east coast road trip of the season.

• Portland has won four consecutive games over New Jersey, six of the past seven meetings and 10 of the last 13. The Trail Blazers have won each of the last three games at the IZOD Center, including last year’s 105-99 comeback victory at the Nets on Jan. 15, when Jerryd Bayless scored his rookie season-high 23 points (11 in fourth quarter).

• A win Tuesday would give the Trail Blazers consecutive season sweeps over the Nets for the first time since 1992-93 and 1993-94.

• The Trail Blazers’ overall winning percentage (51-19, .729) and home winning percentage (30-5, .857) vs. the Nets are their bests among all 29 NBA opponents.

• Portland never trailed in knocking off New Jersey, 93-83, at the Rose Garden on Nov 25. Six Trail Blazers scored in double figures, as Portland shot 50.0% (35-70) from the floor and 52.9% (9-17) from downtown.

• Portland gained a 33-point advantage from the foul line last season against the Nets by shooting 65 for-78 (83.3%). New Jersey went 32-for-40 (80.0%) from the charity stripe in two games.

• The Trail Blazers outrebounded the Nets, 82-66, including a 25-14 advantage on the offensive glass, in two series meetings a season ago.

• Portland outscored New Jersey on the fastbreak, 29-15, in its two wins last season.

• Devin Harris led New Jersey with 25.0 points and 8.0 assists in two appearances against the Trail Blazers last season. Brook Lopez added 19.5 points (72.7% FG) and 6.0 rebounds in two games.

• Trail Blazers assistant coach Maurice Lucas owns a share of the high for rebounds against New Jersey in franchise history with 18 on Oct. 23, 1976.

• Brandon Roy’s 30.0 points (28-33 FT) in two games against the Nets last season led all players in the series. LaMarcus Aldridge added 19.5 points and 8.0 rebounds (4.0 offensive) in two contests.

• Nets General Manager and interim Head Coach Kiki Vandeweghe played for Portland from 1984-89. His 23.5 scoring average over five seasons is the highest of any Trail Blazers player, all-time.

Hopefully the Blazers get a nice win to propel them on this 5 game roadie!

(Pictures: Yahoo Sports)

Boston Celtics end the Blazers Two Game Winning Streak

2010-02-19T23:45:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Blazers welcomed the Boston Celtics to the rose garden for something that was sure to be an interesting match up. The Blazers were unveiling a new line up with the recent acquisition of Marcus Camby and hoping it would be enough to keep the 2008 champs at bay.

Starting Cinq:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Andre Miller
Brandon Roy
Martell Webster
Marcus Camby

Marcus Camby made his Blazer debut last night at the RG and did precisely what we brought him in to do. Camby walked away with 7 rebounds, 3 blocked shots and 2 points. Just keep rebounding and blocking Marcus and people will be happy. Andre Miller was our high scorer with 16 points, 3 rebounds and 3 blocked shots but I'm unhappy to report that he had a big 0 assists. That's pretty uncharacteristic of Dre but then again a lot of things felt uncharacteristic in this game. LaMarcus tallied only 15 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assits and 1 blocked shot.

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

Nothing really went right for Portland in this game. The Blazers shot a dismal 33.8% from the field and 75% from the free throw line and not to mention 16% from beyond the arch shooting 2 - 12. That's rough, especially on top of 18 turnovers. It just really felt like there was little fight in Portland down the stretch and Boston capitalized on that. The Celtics were the more aggressive team so they were able to get the calls and that's all she wrote. Portland ended up losing the game, snapping their two game win streak, 96 - 76.

Photo of the Night:

Lookin' good in that Blazers jersey Camby. Welcome to Portland.

Portland next takes on the Utah Jazz at home on Sunday night on ESPN and CSNW at 7:30 PST.

• Utah leads the series, 3-0, guaranteeing a win in the series for the first time since 2005-06. The Jazz have won by an average of 13.4 points (110.7-97.3) in the three games. The Jazz have shot 61.2% from the field (45.0% 3-PT) while limiting the Trail Blazers to 40.9% shooting (26.2% 3-PT) in the first three contests of the 2009-10 series.

• The home team had won eight straight games in the series, and the Trail Blazers had won six consecutive games in Portland, before Utah earned a 106-95 win at the Rose Garden on Jan. 27. The Jazz jumped out to a 21-2 lead and never trailed.

• The Trail Blazers and Jazz split last season’s series, 2-2, for the fourth time in the last six seasons. A win Wednesday would give Utah a series win for the first time since 2005-06.

• In their two wins against the Jazz a season ago, the Trail Blazers posted two of their four highest point totals of the season. Portland’s 125 points on March 31 marked its highest scoring effort against the Jazz since April 14, 1988.

• Both the Trail Blazers (51.5%) and Jazz (51.2%) shot better than 50.0% from the floor during the series in 2008-09, with Portland’s 51.5% marking its best vs. any team last year.

(Pictures: Yahoo Sports)

Blazers Clip Past the Los Angeles Clippers

2010-02-17T23:01:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Blazers met with the Clippers at the Rose Garden after a nice long rest during All-Star weekend. This game came directly after Blazers general manager, Kevin Pritchard, made a deal with LAC to trade Travis Outlaw, Steve Blake & money considerations for Marcus Camby (see last post). With the 2009-2010 season dwindling down, the Blazers were looking to come off AS Weekend strong with a nice win propelling them into a rough hunt for the playoffs.

Starting Cinco:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Martell Webster
Andre Miller
Juwan Howard
Brandon Roy

You're eyes do no deceive you, Brandon Roy is finally "back." I say that cautiously though since BRoy didn't finish out the game, he had to come out after only 15 minutes of play and then stay out because his hammy fired up. He finished with only 4 points. The high scorer of the night for Portland was none other than Marty Marty DOWNTOWN Party who tied his career high of 28 points and also tallied 1 rebound, 3 assists, 2 steals and 1 block. Martell Webster threw the Marty Party at the RG last night and made big shots down the stretch for the Blazers to help keep an edge over the Clippers. LaMarcus Aldridge took a close silver spot with 22 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assits, 3 steals and 1 block.

Here's a look at the rest of the box score:

The Blazers played a great game overall shooting 49.3% from the field, a big 55.6% from 3-pt range and 78.1% from the line. With only 9 turnovers and 25 assists the Blazers went to work on the Clippers and never let up. Portland went on to win the game 109 - 87.

Photo Of the Night:

You can just hear Roy screaming: "UGH my leg is falling off!!" Get well soon BRoy, we need you 100%

Portland next faces the Boston Celtics on Friday. (This game will also be Marcus Camby's debut as a Blazer)

• The Trail Blazers scored five straight points to force overtime, but Ray Allen’s three-
pointer with 41 seconds to play in the extra period proved to be the game winner in Boston’s 98-95 victory on Feb. 10 in the first game of the 2009-10 series. Andre Miller led all players with 28 points to go with eight rebounds and eight assists.
• Portland and Boston split last season’s series for the first time since 2004-05, with
each team winning on its home floor.
• The Trail Blazers snapped a seven-game losing streak to the Celtics with a 91-86 win
on Dec. 30, 2008. In the absence of an injured Brandon Roy, Rudy Fernandez made his first career start, scoring eight points.
• Portland’s 78 points (to Boston’s 93) on Dec. 5, 2008, are the fewest scored by either
team in series history. The Trail Blazers averaged 84.5 points in two games last season, the fewest against any NBA opponent.
• The Trail Blazers held the Celtics to 43.6% shooting (22.2% 3-PT) last season but posted only a 44.0% shooting mark (30.8% 3-PT) of their own in two games.
• Portland recorded 10 blocks to Boston’s two rejections in two meetings last season.
• The Trail Blazers tallied only 25 assists on 62 field goals in two games vs. Boston in 2008-09. The Celtics had 35 assists on 61 baskets.
• Portland’s .406 (39-57) all-time winning percentage against Boston is its lowest mark among all current NBA opponents. The Celtics are the NBA’s only active team with a winning record in Portland (25-23).
• On Draft Day 2006, Portland dealt Sebastian Telfair, Theo Ratliff and a 2008 second round pick to Boston in exchange for Raef LaFrentz, Dan Dickau and the draft rights to Randy Foye. Foye’s rights were then traded to Minnesota for the draft rights to Brandon Roy.
• Nate McMillan coached Boston guard Ray Allen from 2003-05 in Seattle.
• The Celtics’ Rasheed Wallace ranks No. 8 in points, No. 6 in rebounds, No. 7 in 3-pointers made, No. 3 in blocks and No. 5 in minutes played among Portland’s all-time leaders.
• Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge was a member of the Portland Trail Blazers for two seasons, averaging 10.4 points in 161 games from 1990-92.

(Pictures: ESPN Sports)

Trade Day Results Are Bittersweet

2010-02-16T15:03:00.000-08:00

Trade day results are in and they are bittersweet. What we desperately need right now is a center and Kevin Pritchard worked his magic to get one. We've all heard rumors and conflicting reports but it has been confirmed that Travis Outlaw, Steve Blake and money considerations have been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers for Marcus Camby.

The Portland Trail Blazers have acquired the Clippers' Marcus Camby, the center they've desperately needed since they lost both Greg Oden and Joel Przybilla to season-ending injuries.

In return, Los Angeles receives point guard Steve Blake and small forward Travis Outlaw.

Portland will also send $1.5 million to Los Angeles in the trade and is responsible for $2 million in incentives Camby will earn before season's end, sources told ESPN The Magazine's Ric Bucher on Tuesday.

(From ESPN.com)

Camby is a great acquisition for Portland. The one thing we need to be in playoff contention is a true center and Marcus will fill that role nicely. I'm excited to see how this addition will help give LaMarcus more confidence down low knowing he has someone else down there to have his back. Camby has been averaging 7.7 points per game, 12.1 rebounds per game and 3 assists per game. Marcus will be wearing jersey #21 in his Portland debut on Friday against the Celtics.

Though I am excited to see what Camby can do for this team, this trad is also a bittersweet one. Travis Outlaw and Steve Blake will be leaving Portland for Los Angeles. Steve has been with the team for 4 years and despite the fact that he's been pretty inconsistent this season, he's done a lot of good for us and has made huge shots for us down the stretch. Travis Outlaw. Where do I start? I am a HUGE TLaw fan. He has been this team's 6th man through and through making big shots at crucial points off the bench and just adding to team morale by being everyone's best friend. Travis has been on the team longer than any Blazer as Portland drafted him out of high school and has been on the team for 7 years. Most notable is Travis' close friendship with both Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge, it'll be interesting to see how those two especially handle this loss.

We'll miss you TLaw and Blakey!!! On be half of Blazer Nation, we wish you the best of luck in Los Angeles!!

Portland Blazes The Suns In Phoenix

2010-02-12T00:35:00.000-08:00

Last night the Blazers traveled to the valley of the sun to meet with the Suns in Phoenix. This game was the second of a back to back coming after two devastating losses at home to LA on Saturday and OKC Tuesday night. A win was much needed to go into the All-Star break in a positive light.

Comenzar Cinco:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Juwan Howard
Andre Miller
Martell Webster
Steve Blake

Another line-up switch last night, Nicolas Batum was taken out and Steve Blake was put in. I was a little nervous of this line-up but it seemed to do good things. LaMarcus Aldridge, who was named to the USA national team prior to the game, was the high scorer of the night! Apparently, that announcement did good things and pumped LMA up because he came away with 22 points on 11 - 17 from the field, 6 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocked shots. The difference in LaMarcus' game last night compared to the OKC game was drastic. Aldridge seemed much more confident in his shots and was eager to get the ball down low and take on former teammate Channing Frye. The man had 16 points at the half, I'm just sayin. Our guards were huge for us last night as both Andre Miller and Steve Blake had big games with 20 points. I think Blake's contribution was a bigger deal though because we haven't seen a game like this from Steve in a while. Blake shot 7 - 12 from the field and 2 - 5 from behind the arch tallying 2 rebounds and a big 12 assists. My boy, DANTE INFERNO CUNNINGHAM had another HUGE night with 13 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 blocked shot. DC has been playing great these past couple games, he is really playing for a starting position and doing it with stride. He just keeps getting better and we have to mention his FACE MELTING super dunk on Amar'e Stoudemire coming after Amar'e had a nasty dunk on DC. Unfortunately, Amar'e's dunk was featured on SportsCenter and such and Dante's dunk but forgotten, such is the way of life.

This game was an excellent rebound game after Tuesday's heart breaker. The Blazers came out with a sense of urgency and energy right from the beginning and never allowed Phoenix to lead throughout the entire game. An excellent and surprising game through and through.

The Blazers went on to win the game 108 - 101.

Photo of the Night:

This dunk will forever be engraved in my mind and every time I see a picture or watch a replay I will hear Wheels screaming: "OOOOOH THAT WAS NASTY" because it was. It was.

The Blazers get a nice little break this weekend as All-Star weekend starts up in Dallas but will next play the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday.

• Portland has won four of the past five games and seven of the last nine against the

L.A. Clippers, including two straight wins at the Rose Garden.

• This season series between the teams is tied, 1-1, with each team winning on their home

floor. Both teams have shot better than 50.0% from the floor (Portland, 50.6%; L.A. Clip-

pers, 53.4%). Martell Webster leads Portland with 20.0 points in two series contests.

• The Trail Blazers bested the Clippers, 3-1, in the 2008-09 series, Portland’s second

straight series win over the Clippers and 18th since the Clippers moved to Los Angeles

in 1984-85.

• In four contests last season, the Trail Blazers outscored the Clippers, 107.0-91.8, and

shot 48.7% from the floor while holding Los Angeles to 41.8% shooting in four games.

• The Trail Blazers dished 100 assists and turned the ball over 50 times, good for a 2.00

assist-to-turnover ratio in four series games in 2008-09. The Clippers’ ratio was 1.32.

• Portland outscored Los Angeles in the paint in each of the four meetings last season,

compiling a 202-152 edge overall.

• Portland earned a 186-160 (54-42 off.) rebounding advantage in four games in the

series last year.

Hopefully the Blazers get a nice, well deserved rest this weekend and come back strong on Tuesday for a good game against LAC.

(Photos: Yahoo! Sports)

Thunder Rolls Over Portland

2010-02-09T23:34:00.001-08:00

Last night the Blazers met with the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Rose Garden. It was an exciting match-up with both teams being young and up and coming. The Blazers were looking to erase a devastating loss on Saturday to LA and OKC, winners of five straight, were looking to extend their winning streak and get a long awaited win in Portland. For both teams this was a big division game since the playoff race is extremely tight in the west.

Starting Cinco:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Martell Webster
Andre Miller
Juwan Howard
Nicolas Batuuuum

Nico joined the starting five once again last night in a line-up change hinted by Nate McMillan during the practice before the game. Andre Miller was our top scorer of the night with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Dante INFERNO Cunningham had another BIG night and was one of the few guys making things happen for us last night. Inferno scored a new career high, 14 points and also tallied 6 rebounds and 1 steal. Dante has been doing BIG things for us and I am so excited to see more from him.

Here's a look at the complete box score:

This game just wasn't good. The Blazers had no fight, no energy and just seemed to be going through the motions during this game. The cringe-factor was evident for both teams though as turnovers plagued the entire game for both sides. Once again, shots just didn't drop for us and getting to the paint was difficult, despite the fact we actually outscored OKC in the paint 40 - 30, but I think turnovers were a big deciding factor. We had a total of 24 team turnovers which were converted into 30 OKC points. Those stats are painful to the eyes and really hard to witness in person. It was just a real shame of a game knowing that this game had potential to be a big confidence booster for the Blazers if they came out with the right confidence and attitude.

Oklahoma City went on to win the game 89 - 77.

The Blazers are currently on a plane to Phoenix to take on ex-Blazer Channing Frye and the Phoenix Suns tomorrow night.

• Portland has won three straight games in the series (all in Portland) for the first time since a four-game win streak March 25-Dec. 5, 1999.

• The winning team has scored 100-plus points in 19 of the last 20 games in the series.

• Jerryd Bayless scored 16 of his 29 points (9-15 FG) in leading the Trail Blazers from 13 down in the fourth quarter to a 105-102 triumph over the Suns on Dec. 17 in the first meeting of this year’s series. Brandon Roy added 27 points and eight rebounds.

• Portland and Phoenix split last season’s series, with the home team winning all four games. Portland scored 110.3 points per game while allowing 109.3 points, both highs for the Trail Blazers in a Western Conference series last season.

• In 2008-09, Portland earned its first home sweep of Phoenix since 1998-99. In the wins, Portland posted two of its three highest scoring outputs of the season (124 points on Dec. 18, 129 points on March 26).

• Phoenix shot 53.5% from the floor in four games last season vs. Portland, the highest mark allowed by the Trail Blazers to any team, and 43.8% from long distance. The Trail Blazers shot 49.0% and 41.2%, respectively.

• The Suns outrebounded the Trail Blazers, 152-138, in four contests last season while outscoring Portland, 202-156, in the paint.
The Trail Blazers held a 52-39 advantage on the offensive glass and a 64-51 edge in second-chance scoring.
• The Suns had knocked off the Trail Blazers 11 consecutive times, the longest series streak against Portland at the time, before Brandon Roy’s career-high 52 points, tied for the second-most by a Trail Blazer in franchise history, lifted Portland past Phoenix, 124-119, on Dec. 18, 2009. Roy’s 19 free throws (of 21) also marked a franchise record.
• Rudy Fernandez was acquired by Portland from Phoenix along with James Jones for cash considerations on July 11, 2007.
• Phoenix center Channing Frye spent the past two seasons in a Trail Blazers uniform, averaging 5.6 points (46.4% FG), 3.5 rebounds and 14.8 minutes in 141 games. He attended the same college (Arizona) and high school (St. Mary’s, Phoenix) as Jerryd Bayless.
• Suns center Jarron Collins participated in Portland’s 2009 training camp and preseason before being waived on Oct. 22.
• Suns President of Basketball Operations/General Manager Steve Kerr played for Portland in 2001-02, netting 4.1 points in 65 games.

(Photos: Yahoo! Sports)

Thunder is Brewing in Portland

2010-02-09T00:34:00.000-08:00

*cheesy title I know*

Tomorrow, the Blazers (30 - 23) welcome the ~~Seattle Sonics~~ Oklahoma City Thunder (28 - 21) to the Rose Garden.

• Portland has won five straight games in the series at the Rose Garden, doing so by 12.8 points per game. The Trail Blazers have won four straight series meetings overall.

• Portland earned an 83-74 win in the first meeting of this season’s series on Nov. 1 in Oklahoma City, marking Portland’s first road win of the year. The Thunder recorded a Trail Blazers opponent franchise-low six assists and shot just 34.3% (24-70) from the field.

• With a 3-1 edge in 2008-09, the Trail Blazers won the series vs. the Thunder franchise for

the first time since 2002-03. Portland outscored Oklahoma City by 26.3 points per win.

• Two of Portland’s league-best five wins by 30 points or more in 2008-09 came against

the Thunder, including Portland’s largest margin of victory in series history, a 107-72 rout on April 3 in Oklahoma City.

• In four games between the teams last year, Portland held a distinct edge in field goal shooting (48.1%-41.5%) and three-point shooting (39.7%-18.9%). Both of Oklahoma City’s shooting marks were the lowest of any Western Conference team against Portland in 2008-09.

• The Trail Blazers outrebounded the Thunder, 196-146, in four games last season, including a 58-42 margin on the offensive end.

• Brandon Roy led the Trail Blazers with 22.3 points in four contests against the Thunder last season. Travis Outlaw netted 17.8 points (56.9% FG) and LaMarcus Aldridge added 17.3 points (51.7% FG) and 10.5 rebounds. Aldridge counted a season-high 35 points (14-24 FG), one short of a career best, and a career-high 18 rebounds (seven off.) on April 3, 2009, at Oklahoma City.

• Kevin Durant led Oklahoma City with 18.5 points but shot 27-for-68 (39.7%) from the field in four contests vs. Portland a season ago.

• Nate McMillan played 12 seasons with the Thunder franchise from 1986-87 to 1997-98, averaging 5.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.94 steals in 796 games. His 19 assists on Feb. 18, 1989, are tied for the most in a game vs. Portland in the history of the franchise.

• Jeff Pendergraph and Oklahoma City’s James Harden were the two leading scorers and rebounders at Arizona State during the 2007-08 and 2008-09 seasons … The Trail Blazers and Thunder feature a combined six former Pac-10 players.

• Thunder assistant coach Maurice Cheeks posted a 162-139 (.538) mark in three-plus seasons as head coach of the Trail Blazers from 2001-05. Oklahoma City assistant coach Mark Bryant played seven seasons for the Trail Blazers, posting averages of 4.9 points and 3.5 rebounds in 431 games in the red and black.

Kevin Durant - OKC's all-star has been averaging a big 29.7 points per game. One of the leaders in the NBA in scoring. It will be crucial for our guys to play good defense on KD, as we did back when we played them earlier this season in OKC, we held Kevin to 16 points on just 3 - 21 from the field.
Fast Pace Game - Oklahoma likes to run and we need to keep up with them. OKC is going to want to keep this at a fast pace game and if we can control the tempo to get an early lead that will be essential to a Portland win.
Ball Don't Lie, Gotta Make Your Free Throws - For all that is good in the world please make your free throws Portland! I used to be able to count on LaMarcus for a good 2 - 2 from the line but now, I don't really know...free throws can make or break a game in the end.

Not a lot of keys tonight, it's been a long day and we tend to play really well against OKC so I'm crossing my fingers for a nice win after Saturday's devastating loss to the L*kers. As you can tell, I honestly didn't want to talk about it *hence the super short post*. I know if I would've tried writing about it I would've gotten really frustrated and thrown my computer out the window annnnd well, I can't afford a new computer. I'm always excited to see Kevin Durant play, I love Greg Oden and all but I will admit that back during the pre-draft times I was rooting for us to pick KD.

*Special Note To My Fellow Bitter Sonic Fans: Tune in to the local Blazers broadcast Tuesday at 6:15pm! Sonicsgate director Jason Reid is on TV before the PDX vs OKC Blunder game! (For those of you who haven't been able to see it yet, Sonicsgate is an EXCELLENT documentary about the dealings that led up to the Sonics moving to OKC with interviews from sports writers and former Sonics players. The film will also be showing at the Portland Beer & Movie Fest check out the deets here: www.sonicsgate.org

.............................

2010-02-06T23:05:00.000-08:00

L*kers won 99 - 82. We lost to the Lakers at home for the first time in five years.

BEAT LA

2010-02-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Blazers take on the Los Angeles Lakers at the Rose Garden. The Lakers will be playing the second game in a back to back, they lost last night to Denver at the Staples Center. The Lakers haven't done well at the Rose Garden in a looooong time, try 9 games. The Blazers currently hold a 9 - 0 winning streak at home. The entire city of Portland always comes together for Laker games so this game is not only an important win for the team but the city as well.

Probably Starters:

Portland L*kers
LaMarcus Aldridge Kobe Bryant
Juwan Howard Ron Artest
Martell Webster Pau Gasol
Jerryd Bayless Andew Bynum
Andre Miller Derek Fisher

The Blazers have a rough task tonight against LA. It was reported this morning that Brandon Roy will not be returning tonight as many thought. Kevin Pritchard(GM) even went as far to say that they might hold Roy out till All Star Weekend, meaning he wouldn't be playing at home against Oklahoma City and away at Phoenix. Though this is a downer for Blazer fans, let's not count Portland out just yet. Nate McMillan confirmed that Jerryd Bayless would be starting once again in place of Brandon Roy.

• The Trail Blazers earned a 107-98 victory in the first game of the series Jan. 8 in the Rose City behind 32 points (9-11 FG, 13-14 FT) from Brandon Roy. Portland never trailed, leading by as many as 20 points in the fourth quarter.
• Portland has defeated the L.A. Lakers in each of the last nine meetings at the Rose Garden, tied for Portland’s longest active home winning streak against any team (Minnesota) and the Lakers’ longest active road losing streak against any team. The Trail Blazers have won 15 of the past 17 home meetings and 22 of 26. The Lakers have won five straight contests in Los Angeles. The home team has won 10 straight games in the series overall.
• Portland and the L.A. Lakers meet just three times this year, as the Lakers are one of two teams the Trail Blazers visit only once this season (San Antonio). Portland’s only trip to the STAPLES Center to face the Lakers on April 11 marks its final road contest of the season.
• The Trail Blazers and Lakers split last year’s series, with each game going to the home team. Portland won by 12.5 points per game at the Rose Garden, while Los Angeles outscored Portland by 17.0 points in two games at STAPLES Center.

• In four meetings last season, the Lakers outshot the Trail Blazers, 46.0% to 41.1%, from the floor. Los Angeles bested Portland from the foul line, 80.5% to 67.3%.

• Brandon Roy led Portland with 21.7 points, 6.0 assists and 1.67 steals in his three games vs. the Lakers last season. LaMarcus Aldridge tallied 15.5 points, 9.0 boards and 1.50 blocks in four contests.

• Kobe Bryant led all scorers in the series with 26.8 points in four games a season ago. Pau Gasol added 16.0 points on 27-for-40 (67.5%) shooting in four contests.

Without Roy it's going to be imperative that we start well. A big reason why we've had so many close, nail biting games is because Roy is the team leader and more importantly, the team closer. So, let's take a look at some keys to a Portland victory tonight.

Guard Production - With Roy out, it'll more important than ever for our remaining guards to get to the hoop and make good things happen. Dre & Jerryd need to see big nights, we can't afford for them to have quiet 8 point nights.
BIG START - Sometimes we tend to start cold and rely on comebacks but tonight it's going to be imperative that we start the game hot. Kobe is known for finishing games for the Lakers and even though he's starting to feel his injuries he's still performing well averaging 27.9 points per game. In our last game against the Lakers at home, the Lakers never led, that's something we'd like to repeat.
Boom Boom Batum Defense - Now that we have Nicolas back, one of the biggest things he's given us is defense! Nico has always been great on defense and we need that tonight. If Batum can keep Kobe under 28, it's been a good night.
Our "Bigs" - Last time we played LA, Pau Gasol was out....well, he's back giving LA two real centers vs. our zero. Jeff, Dante, Juwan and LaMarcus HAVE to be careful with fouls because if not it's going to be that much more difficult to contain the Lakers scoring in the paint.
Marty Party - Our outside shooters, specifically Martell Webster need to be on point tonight as well. Lately Marty seems to have gotten his consistency back and we all want to celebrate the Marty Party tonight!

I'll be at the game cheering from the 300 level and I really hope we get this win tonight! I'm bringing my all tonight, even made a sign and I hope each and every one of you that's going to the game does the same. Our guys needs us louder than ever tonight and I can't wait to see the gimmicks Portland does for tonight! Last time we got signs, wonder what they'll do tonight!

BEAT LA

Blazers Sweep The Spurs

2010-02-05T00:54:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Blazers came back home to face the San Antonio Spurs. This was the second game in a back to back for Blazers coming off of a tough loss in Utah last night. Going into this game the Blazers had previously beaten the Spurs in San Antonio and were looking for a Spurs sweep with a win at the Rose Garden tonight.

Starting FIVE:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Martell Webster
Juwan Howard
Jerryd Bayless
Andre Miller

It was LA's night tonight. Aldridge was the team's high scorer with his team high 17th double-double of the season. LaMArcus tallied 28 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists in 41 minutes of play. He shot 12 - 22 from the field and 4 - 7 from the free throw line. LMA had a huge basket in the 4th quarter putting the Blazers up and starting a big Blazer run to get the win. When Bradon Roy went out, the first thing I thought was LaMarcus better be steppin up his game and he has answered in such a huge way for this team. His aggression in the paint on both ends of the court has gone through the roof and his production in both points and rebounds has been huge! I think Roy's injury was a big wake-up call for LaMarcus and I'm proud to say he answered it. Martell Webster also had a huge night tonight and was a big reason for why the Blazers won. Marty tallied 21 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists in 30 minutes of play. Marty shot 6 - 9 from the field and an incredible, perfect 5 - 5 from beyond the arch and 4 -4 from the free throw line. Many of those 3's and FT's came in clutch moments of the game and can undoubtedly be considered game winners. The Marty Party was in full effect tonight! I love seeing Martell be in top of his game and bringing the consistency! Andre Miller tallied 11 points but shot an uncharacteristic 1 - 4 from the free throw line and some of those FT's were in clutch situations. Dante 'INFERNO' Cunningham is continuing to stay consistent and knock down shots from the 18 footer range. He tallied a nice 9 points and 4 rebounds, shooting 4 - 6 from the field in 19 minutes of play.

The game stayed pretty close throughout most of the game with the Spurs never leading by more than 12 but things started to look to be in San Antonio's favor after a run in the 4th put them up 10. Luckily the Blazers rallied back with a huge momentum shifting two from LaMarcus and a big fat three from Martell. With only 18 seconds remaining, Blazers led 92 - 89 and SA had the ball, when the wings didn't rotate on defense, Manu Ginobli was able to find a wide open three and as it went off you could hear all Blazer fans inhale and flash back to the New Orleans game BUT he missed it so all was well. The Blazers ended up winning 96 - 93.

Photo(s) of the Night:

That's right Webster, 5 - 5. MARTY PARTY in the building

Argentina vs. Spain - Sign in the RG read: "I'll Take Your Ginobli and Raise You a Fernandez"

The Blazers next play the L*kers at the Rose Garden on Saturday! No keys and series notes in this post, I'll be devoting a whole post to the Portland & LA rivalry!

(Photos: Yahoo! Sports)

Portland Blazes to a Win Over Charlotte

2010-02-02T01:10:00.000-08:00

Tonight the Blazers returned home to face the big surprise in the NBA, the Charlotte Bobcats. Portland was coming off a big win in Dallas and was looking to bring home a win after a two game losing streak at the Rose Garden. Charlotte has experienced a surprising season playing excellent in the east and looking to be playoff contenders at 6th place and also naming the franchises very first all-star in Gerald Wallace. So basically Charlotte was not a team to be written off completely.

Your Starting Five:
LaMarcus Aldridge
Andre Miller
Martell Webster
Juwan Howard
Jerryd Bayless

LaMarcus Aldridge was the high scorer of the night with 17 points BUT I am going to give top honors to my boy, Dante "INFERNO" Cunningham for his EXCELLENT overall performance. Ever since pre-season and fan night I've been a big fan of DC. There was something about him where I knew he would do well and be a great addition to our team but, as everyone including probably Dante himself thought, I also thought that we wouldn't see too much of Dante maybe some minutes towards the end of a game here and some 'that player is in foul trouble' minutes there. Then our entire team got injured and we all settled in to see our rookies grow up super fast. Inferno posted a career high in points and minutes with 10 points and 31 minutes played in the game. DC did so well, he played for the entire fourth quarter and only committed one foul. He also added 4 boards for us and all four were OFFENSIVE. That means he gave us 4 extra chances to score, way to go Inferno! It was so exciting to see Inferno step up to the plate and get things done for us. I'm even more excited to just see where he goes from here and see his career high 10 turn into a career high 20! TEAM CUNNINGHAM!

Ok, ok I'm done fangirling. LaMarcus Aldridge was the high scorer of the night with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 1 assist in 38 minutes of play. Nothing much to report here, it was same ol' same ol' for LMA. Towards the beginning of the game it was difficult for LA to get low and as per usual he swished his fade-aways but as we got to the end LaMarcus found a little more aggression and got to the line. Jerryd Bayless had a respectable game with 15 points, 2 rebounds and 1 assist. I love Jerryd and I LOVE that he is one of few who can really drive to basket (heck, the first play of the game was a Jerryd Bayless drive for an and 1 situation) but Jerryd, you are on a team and sometimes I wish he would create plays for the team rather than just go to the hoop. Don't get me wrong I LOVE JBAY but 1 assist for a point guard is not too impressive in 21 minutes of play. NICO BATUM, Je T'AIME! Batum was a huge part of this game. He tallied 15 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocked shots. Nico was huge down the stretch. He brought a level of intensity and energy that the Blazers were lacking back into the game and made big plays for Portland. You know, one big thing I miss from last year was the Spanish Armada consisting of Rudy & Sergio making crazy plays for each other, well I am pleased to report that though the Spanish Connection has passed, we might have a new connection on our hands, the Euro Connection. Rudy and Nico set up some BEAUTIFUL plays for each other, something that I really hope we see more of!

The Blazers ended up cruising to a win, 98 - 79. The game started off pretty slow and, to be blunt, I honestly felt like I was watching a bad JV high school basketball game. Both teams were playing slow and lazy and turning the ball over and not hustling. Even though we were winning by quite a bit (it actually kind of looked like the Utah game....just backwards) it felt like no one had scored or we were tied because both teams were looking less than fantastic. Luckily that phase passed and the Blazers cruised to a win. OH and young rookie out of Australia, Patty Mills, clocked in his first minutes as a Blazer tonight! He missed his only shot but looked darn good in the process. Hope we get to see more Patty!

Photo of the Night:

BATUUUUUM SHOCKA LOCKA

The Blazers next travel to Utah to take on the Utah Jazz on Wednesday.

• Utah leads the series, 2-0, winning by an average of 13.5 points (107.0-93.5) in those
games. The Jazz have shot 60.4% from the field (48.1% 3-PT) while limiting the Trail
Blazers to 40.1% shooting (19.0% 3-PT) in the first two contests of the 2009-10 series.
• The Jazz have won the last four meetings between the teams in Salt Lake City.

• The home team had won eight straight games before Utah earned a 106-95 win at the

Rose Garden on Jan. 27. The Jazz jumped out to a 21-2 lead and never trailed.

• Portland never led, trailing by as many as 27 points, in Utah’s 108-92 win in Salt Lake

City on Nov. 28 in the first meeting of the 2009-10 series. Carlos Boozer led all players

with 26 points for Utah, who shot 60.6% from the floor and 58.3% from downtown.

• The Trail Blazers and Jazz split last season’s series, 2-2, for the fourth time in the last

six seasons.

• In their two wins against the Jazz a season ago, the Trail Blazers posted two of their

four highest point totals of the season. Portland’s 125 points on March 31 marked its

highest scoring effort against the Jazz since April 14, 1988.

• Both the Trail Blazers (51.5%) and Jazz (51.2%) shot better than 50.0% from the floor during

the series in 2008-09, with Portland’s 51.5% marking its best vs. any team last year.

Foul Trouble is Not Our Friend - A big problem in our game against Utah last week was that we were racking up the fouls. Jeff Pendergraph, LaMarcus Aldridge, Juwan Howard and Dante Cunningham our "big" men especially need to do everything they can to stay out of foul trouble. Boozer likes to play rough and dirty in the post and he can really do damage to our guys if he constantly draws the fouls.
Don't Drink the Booze - Carlos Boozer is a tough guy to play against and every time we've gone up against the Jazz since Przy's injury, I realize how much I miss Przy talkin' trash to Booze down low. Anyway, we have to contain Booze and Williams. Together they're nearly unstoppable and apart they're just as good. LaMarcus tends to struggle against Booze so it'll be interesting to see how Nate handles that match-up.
Keep Them Under 100 - Once again, we do much better when we are able to keep a team under 100 and Utah does better when they score over 100 so a low scoring game would be most in favor of the Blazers.
GOTTA MAKE YOUR FREE THROWS - I refuse to see another game where we have the chance to tie it up, take the lead/win and we miss the free throws (wishful thinking).

EDIT: As accurately noted by our friends over at Holy BackBoard, it looks like Boozer and Brewer will be out tonight against Portland. Which means good things for us. Our bigs will have a much easier time getting position down low without Boozer checking them!

(Photos: Yahoo! Sports)

Andre Miller Does It Big In Dallas

2010-01-31T00:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight, the Blazers finished their back to back road trip in Dallas. The Blazers had just suffered a close loss to Houston and were looking for redemption to return home with. Dallas on the other hand has been playing extremely well this season and likely didn't forget that the Blazers beat them last at home. This match was another must win for the Blazers to keep them in playoff contention after three rough losses in a row.

Starters:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Andre Miller
Juwan Howard
Jerryd Bayless
Martell Webster

Get out the party platters because it's a holiday. Dre Day is in full effect today as high scorer of the night, Andre Miller went for a career high 52 points! Not only was this a career high for Dre (his previous career high was 37 points, he beat that by 15 tonight) this was also a Blazer high. Dre is the third highest scoring Blazer in a single game tied with Brandon Roy and right behind Damon Stoudamire who holds the number one spot with 54 points. After forgettable performances in the past couple games (Dre has scored 54 points over the last 5 games *via-Ben Golliver*) Miller exploded out of the gate and attacked the paint like his life depended on it. Shawn Marion was quoted on Miller's performance,"He already had 45 points. What am I gonna do?" said Marion, who got the assignment to guard Miller late in the fourth quarter. "He already got it going. "(Via Dallas Mavericks Blog on ESPN) Miller went for 52 on 22 field goals in 42 minutes. Anyone think he's still not fitting in?

Of course this was a team win though...nah who are we kidding, Dre's back must be sore because the guy carried this team to a win. But, I will mention LaMarcus Aldridge who was making a return to his home town. LMA went for 21 points, only 4 rebounds and 1 steal. Not exactly a spectacular home coming.....not to mention he only shot 1 - 4 from the free throw line and two of those missed free throws came at a crucial point when he could have taken the lead. Not all was bad though, we did see a much more aggressive LaMarcus down low in the post, he was able to get to the block and make things happen but we need more from LaMarcus. I will be the first to come to LMA's defense, I'm a huge Aldridge fan but if he wants to be an all-star he needs to become a bigger force in the post instead of settling for fade away jumpers. Jerryd Bayless had a great night as well tallying 17 points shooting 7 - 11 from the field and putting up a +20 on his +/-. Steve Blake went for 10 points on 4 of 10 from the field and made some big shots down the stretch for the Blazers.

The Blazers won this game 114 - 112 in overtime after a slew of clutch "Moneytime" Miller shots followed by Dirk Nowitzki classic clutch twos. Luckily for the Blazers, Batum played excellent defense on Dirk for the final possession causing him to miss the jumper and give the win to Portland. This win couldn't come at a better time. The Blazers were suffering a three game losing streak, two of those losses coming at home and with a tight race for the playoffs in the pacific division, Portland needed this to keep them in post season talk. The Blazers are now 6th in the western conference.

Photo of the Night:

Way to go fellas, congrats on bringing home the win.

The Blazers next head home to face the Charlotte Bobcats.

• Behind a game-best 25 points (9-16 FG) from Brandon Roy, Portland counted an 80-74 victory in Charlotte on Nov. 14 in the first meeting of the series. The Trail Blazers limited the Bobcats to 36.6% field goal shooting, but Portland tied a franchise low with eight assists.
• A win Monday would give Portland its third series win in the six-year history of the series.
• Portland has defeated Charlotte by an average of 12.6 points in its seven wins in the series. The Bobcats have never defeated Portland by double digits.
• The Trail Blazers and Bobcats each won at home last season, splitting the series for the first time since 2005-06.

1. Take Down Captain Jack - Stephen Jackson has been playing tremendously for the Bobcats averaging 24.9 points per game and has scored in double figures in all games since coming to Charlotte. If we can keep Jackson at bay and force him to move the ball, we stand a fighting chance.
2. Charlotte's First All-Star - Gerald Wallace has also been huge for CHA. Wallace has been averaging 18.6 points and 11 rebounds per game. Keeping his production low will also help us but that means we need serious work from LMA and Howard on the boards.
3. Low Scoring Game For Them Not Us - The Bobcats have been averaging 102.3 points per game and have been keeping their opponents at 93.8 points per game, lowest in the league. We are allowing 94.8 ppg, lowest in the west. If we can keep Charlotte under 100 but allow ourselves a chalupa night, odds would be most definitely in our favor.
4. Guards Go To Work - Andre Miller's performance tonight was spectacular but a big reason why we lost in Houston was because of the poor production from our guards. We need Dre Day to continue and we need Blake to step up his game and make things happen. I refuse to see Steve Blake take the ball down the court in a 3 on 2 fast break and pass it off to an unprepared player or dribble in and then dribble back out and look to McMillan for a play. Get aggressive Blakey! Bayless.....just keep getting to the hoop.

On a side note, big shout out to my boys at U Dub for a big win over the Washington State Cougs today! Watched the game on TV and who was there but Brandon Roy and his Anti-Blazer hamstring! The cameras caught him enjoying some ice cream and wearing his ol' Husky jersey! (P.S. if anyone wants to get me an early birthday present.....a Roy Husky jersey would be awesome.....)

(Pictures: Yahoo Sports)

The Houston Curse Continues for the Blazers

2010-01-30T00:49:00.000-08:00

The Blazers played at the Toyota Center in Houston tonight. It was the first stop on on a back to back in Texas and after a horrible loss against Utah on Wednesday, Portland was looking for a big win to start this road trip. Houston was also on a three game losing streak and wanted a big win at home to get back on track.

Starters:
LaMarcus Aldridge
Andre Miller
Jerryd Bayless
Juwan Howard
Martell Webster

The big winning scorer of the night was none other than Rudy Fernandez! Felicitaciones El Machetero! Rudy tied a career high with 25 points, and 5 rebounds with 3 assists. Rudy shot 9 - 14 from the field and 5 - 6 from 3-point range. LaMarcus Aldridge has continued to step up with the absence of B Roy. He tallied 20 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and a BIG 4 of the Blazers 5 blocked shots. LaMarcus has been showing more and more aggression in the paint as of late and that's something we can only hope continues. When LMA has a hot hand you can bet we will be playing well. After a forgettable performance Wednesday night, Steve Blake rebounded well serving up 14 points and 9 assists while shooting 6 - 10 from the field and 2 - 4 from 3-point range. Nicolas Batum is continuing to make a big difference for the Blazers. He tallied 12 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists while shooting 4 - 7 from the field.

After a horrific start Wednesday night, the Blazers were definitely looking to start this game strong, which they did. Portland led 28 - 18 at the end of the 1st quarter but after a weird referee foul call mistake the Blazers seem to cool off and allowed Houston to blow them out of the water after half time. They kept it close allowing Houston to at most lead by 12 but some bad turnovers and poor decisions allowed Houston to take control of the game. Portland lost 104 - 100. This is the 4th of 5 games in which Portland has lost by 5 points or less.

Photo of the night:

Careful Scola, Steve Blake might go UFC on your behind.

The Blazers continue their Texan back to back in Dallas tomorrow night.

Series Notes:

• Dallas had won 11 straight home contests over the Trail Blazers (Portland’s longest current road losing streak against any team), before Portland earned an 85-81 win in Dallas on Dec. 22 in the first series meeting between the teams. The Mavericks led in the fourth quarter by as many as seven points, but Portland used a 27-16 edge in the final period to claim the victory.
• The Mavericks outscored the Trail Blazers, 99.7.0-94.0, outrebounded Portland, 40.0-35.3, and held a 22.7-16.3 advantage in assists in three wins last season. Dallas won all three games by single digits.
• The Trail Blazers shot 47.7% (21-44) from three-point distance while holding the Mavericks to 31.4% (16-51) from long range in three meetings last year.

Low Scoring Game - We need to keep the Mavs under 100 points if we want to take away a win. Dallas is 17-4 when scoring 100+ points and lost 10 of 12 games when scoring 96-or-less
Slow Terry and Dirk Down - When Jason Terry and Dirk Nowitzki have big nights the Mavs flourish, the Mavericks are now 10-2 when both Dirk Nowitzki (28) and Jason Terry (21) score 20+ points. We need to slow them down if we want to stand a chance, which really means LaMarcus or Juwan and probably Martell and Nico need to keep their defense solid.
Gotta Make Your Free Throws - If we can beat Dallas to the line and shoot well, we can take away a win, but that means we need to get to the hoop instead of settling for jump shots.

(Photos Courtesy Of: Bill Baptist/NBAE via Getty Images & Yahoo! Sports)

Roy's Hamstring is Anti-Blazers, Nico is BACK & Greg Oden's Not So Little Friend Makes Its Presence Known

2010-01-29T17:25:00.000-08:00

I know I know, it's been a long while Blazer Nation, miss me? No don't answer that... Anyway, a lot of crazy mayhem has gone down. First off let's take a moment to pay homage to the injured Blazers since my sabbatical:

No, I did not include Brandon Roy but that's because *knock on wood* Roy's injury should only be putting him on the bench for a couple weeks total and he should, hopefully, be back on the court after this next road trip.

Huge congrats are in order though for Coach McMillan, Rudy Fernandez and Nicolas Batum who have all made healthy recoveries from their injuries and are back on the court!!

And what a difference their return has made. Rudy took a game or two to get back in the swing of things but my oh my, Nicolas Batum was HUNGRY to get back on the court and immediately was back to his old Batuuuuum-Shaka-Laka self! In his game debut, Batum posted 6 points, 1 assist and 1 rebound while shooting 3 - 5 from the field. In Wednesday's game against Utah, Batum was a HUGE factor. In our almost scoreless first quarter Nico posted 7 of our 9 points. He went on to score 16 points, shooting 7 - 9 from the field and a perfect 2 - 2 from beyond the arch. Rudy has been playing extremely well (we'll not talk about the incident at Boston where Rudy threw a bad three up that could have tied the game even though he had 3.5 seconds to get set....). Though we all love a good RUDY POR TRES, I think we are all even more excited about the new inside game El Machetero has been playing. He drops floaters in the paint like a pro and boy are they pretty.

Unfortunately I have to report our first two home game losing streak of the season. The Blazers lost against New Orleans at home after a close game that the Blazers just couldn't close in the end. The Blazers led for most of the game, albeit not by much but towards the end everything fell apart. A lapse in defense and a Hornets run ending with a wide open jump shot for Chris Paul allowed the Hornets to come away with a one point win. On wednesday, the Blazers faced the Jazz at home and the beginning of that game was one Blazer fans and players probably want to erase from memory completely. The Jazz were able to take an early 10 - 0 lead and it didn't get much better. I haven't heard a Blazer crowd boo that loud since the Jail Blazers era. The referees seemed a little protective over Utah in the first half, if a Blazer breathed on a ?Utahonian? a foul was called. You know I never blame games on the refs but man were they brutal in that game. The Blazers were able to slightly redeem themselves towards the end with a big run that brought them within 5 but nothing could be done, our 4th quarter finisher was still resting his hamstring on the bench and there was no more energy left to take a win. The Blazers ended up losing 106 - 95. Dre and Blakey combined for their worst games of the season (I bet) shooting 2 - 17 from the field. LaMarcus Aldridge did his best to carry the team tallying 25 points and 9 rebounds and even attempting three 3 pointers at the end. Nicolas Batum (as stated earlier) was a huge part of keeping the Blazers in the game with his 16 points and Martell Webster has a big game himself. Prior to the game, Marty announced that he would be donating $1000 for every point he scored to Haitian relief. Martell ended the game with 14 points, 2 of which were big threes when Portland needed them most. Marty ended up donating $14,000 to Haitian relief, way to go Marty!! The #MartyParty never ends!

Tonight the Blazers take on the Houston Rockets in Houston as they start their Texan Back-2-Back. We really need these wins on the road to make up for our recent misfortune at home if we want to to still be contenders in the playoff hunt. You can catch the game on Comcast Sportsnet and 95.5 FM the Game on the radio if you're in the Portland area.

AND I'M BACK! Now that finals are over and I have a little more free time, I'm hoping to be making more frequent posts when news arises and after every game! And though I addressed it in the title, I will not say anything more on the subject of Greg Oden's nude pictures. You can't make me.

Blazers Come Home and Treat the Rose Garden to A Win

2009-12-17T00:28:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Blazers met up with, former Blazers, Sergio "El Chacho" Rodriguez and Ime Udoka and their Sacramento Kings. The Blazers were coming off a disappointing 1 - 4 game road trip and were looking for some fire to propel them into a tough schedule ahead. The Kings on the other hand were looking to prove themselves having only won one game on the road so far.

Starting Five:
Brandon Roy
LaMarcus Aldridge
Joel Pryzbilla
Martell Webster
Andre Miller?!

Nate McMillan tipped his hat to Dre last night and gave him the start over Steve Blake, this was Blake's first time coming off the bench since 2007. Miller had a pretty quiet night with only 4 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. LaMarcus Aldridge had a fantastic night once again. The 6'11, All-Star hopeful tallied a near double-double with 25 points, 9 rebounds and a season high 5 assists in 41 minutes of play. Fellow captain, Brandon Roy had a fantastic night as well tallying a double-double with 25 points, 5 rebounds and a season high 10 assists. The captains came through big for the Blazers last night and carried this team to a much needed win. Both of our 2010 All-Star hopefuls tallied a season high in assists which means excellent ball movement and great team work. Despite these performances from LA and BRoy, the star of the night was undoubtedly young guard, Jerryd Bayless.

Since the start of the season, Bayless has been fighting for more minutes on the court. Stories have constantly come out about frustration and anger in the sophomore guard and he finally had his moment to shine last night. Jerryd Bayless tallied a season high in both points and minutes with 14 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 24 minutes of play. JBay also showed his aggression getting to the line 10 times and shooting 80%. I offer a tip of the hat to Mr. Bayless for his excellent play and hope his minutes continue to increase. At the end of the game when they announce stats for the night, when Jerryd's numbers were announced everyone cheered, as they should.

You could tell the guys were happy to be home and have the crowd behind them. If you were following my Twitter updates you might have been worried when I updated saying LaMarcus was taken out of the game and wen straight to the locker room with a pained face, well he did return but, as revealed in post game interviews, he did in fact twist his already tender ankle. Never fear though, it seems a simple ankle sprain will not keep LaMarcus down. The Blazers fought hard and were able to come away with the win, 95 - 88, finally giving the team and the fans something to smile about.

The Blazers next play, former Blazer, Channing Frye and his Phoenix Suns on Thursday at 7:30 PST. This game will be broadcast nationally on TNT so be sure to check it out! You might recall that the Blazers hosted the Suns at about the same time last year and Brandon Roy EXPLODED with a career high 52 points! I'm just sayin, he's due for another spectacular performance! Let's go for 60 tomorrow BRoy!

Series Notes:

• Portland and Phoenix split last season’s series, with the home team winning all four games. Portland scored 110.3 points per game

while allowing 109.3 points, both highs for the Trail Blazers in a Western Conference series last season.

• In 2008-09, Portland earned its first home sweep of Phoenix since 1998-99. In the wins, Portland posted two of its three highest

scoring outputs of the season (124 points on Dec. 18, 129 points on Mar. 26).

• The winning team has scored 100-plus points in 18 of the last 19 games in the series.

• The Suns had knocked off the Trail Blazers 11 consecutive times, the longest series streak against Portland at the time, before Brandon Roy’s career-high 52 points, the second-most by a Trail Blazer in franchise history, lifted Portland past Phoenix, 124-119, on Dec. 18, 2008. Roy’s 19 free throws (of 21) also marked a franchise record.

(Pictures: Yahoo Sports)

Blazers End Road Trip In a Heated Battle with Milwaukee

2009-12-15T16:07:00.000-08:00

The Blazers ended their four game road trip in Milwaukee on Saturday. Going into this game the Blazers were 1 - 2 on this road trip, so they were in a must-win situation in order to keep their conference stance and keep morale high.

Starters:
Brandon Roy
LaMarcus Aldridge
Steve Blake
Joel Pryzbilla
Martell Webster

Time for a tip of the hat to LaMarcus Aldridge. Coming into this game, LA had an extremely sore ankle (he twisted it in the previous game) and many were on edge wondering if he would have to opt out of this game giving us a healthy bench of 8 but he pushed through and had one hell of game. Aldridge tallied a season high 31 points, and 16 rebounds in 52 minutes of play. LA was fantastic in this game. He really stepped his game up and helped to keep the team afloat throughout 4 quarters and 2 overtimes. Brandon Roy notched 23 rebounds, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Once again Roy took it upon himself to fight through to the end of this game, making huge baskets at times when the Blazers needed it most. Martell Webster also got on a hot streak and tallied 16 points and 4 rebounds and a crazy four point play. I've been careful to stay out of the Bayless, Blake and Miller drama but I just have one thing to say:

Jerryd Bayless - about 18 minutes of play - 9 points, 3 rebounds - +5 - 3/6 from the field
Steve Blake - about 42 minutes of play - 7 points, 5 rebounds - -8 - 3/10 from the field

I think the numbers speak for themselves.

The Blazers played well in this game despite a slow start. The Blazers had the lead for the first half and in that half the young Buck, Brandon Jennings was non-existent. He didn't shoot, he never scored. The second half was another story. Jennings came rocketing out of the gate and helped the Bucks tie the game up. Andrew Bogut thought he had a buzzer beating, game winning tip in at the end of the fourth but he clearly touched the ball after the shot clock expired so into overtime we go. I'll say it again, I won't ever completely blame the outcome of a game on the referees but in this case, I think all those who witnessed this game can say that the refs made a game changing call. The Bucks had possession, they missed the basket, LaMarcus and Mbah a Moute went up for the rebound, LMA had it in his hands and Mbah a Moute clearly pushed it out of his hands which initially resulted in a Bucks turnover, Portland ball. The refs went to review the play and ended up changing the call after several minutes of review. Good call? I think not.

Despite the Blazers energy and push throughout this battle, Milwaukee ended up winning 108 - 101.

Portland next hosts former teammate, Sergio Rodriguez and his Sacramento Kings tonight at 7 PM PST. The game will be aired on KGW with pre-game at 6:30 PM. This also means you can purchase the game to view it online if you won't be near a TV, check out info for that HERE.

Due to a mountain of work with little time before the game, there are no keys tonight, just some series notes:

• The Trail Blazers swept Sacramento, 3-0, in last year’s series for the first time since posting a 4-0 win over the Kings in 1999-2000.
• Portland outscored Sacramento, 105.7-87.7, in three wins a season ago. The Trail Blazers shot 45.6% from the field while holding
the Kings to a 42.7% clip.
• The Trail Blazers outrebounded Sacramento, 145-99, in three games last year, including a 50-25 edge on the offensive glass that
led to a 53-14 advantage in second-chance scoring. Portland’s 59 rebounds vs. Sacramento on Dec. 16 marked a season best.

• Sacramento Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie played for Portland from 1970-76, averaging 21.8 points per
game, including a team-best 24.8 points during the Trail Blazers’ inaugural campaign.

I will be at the game tonight, so I will do my best to twitter updates as often as possible with pictures when I can.

(Pictues: Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images)

A Close Game Results in a Blazer Loss at the King's Court

2009-12-12T00:53:00.000-08:00

Coming into this game there was no expectations for the Blazers to win. Cleveland was coming off a two game losing streak, Portland was coming off a win but when the Cavaliers are at home you can bet they'll bring the energy.

Starting FIVE:

Brandon Roy

LaMarcus Aldridge

Martell Webster

Steve Blake

Joel Pryzbilla

Brandon Roy stepped up once again leading the Blazers in scoring with 23 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds and 3 steals. Roy shot a mere 9 - 25 from the field and 2 - 7 from three point range. LaMarcus Aldridge tallied 22 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal. Andre Miller added 20 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists to the mix. Also Notable: Juwan Howard went to work tonight and tallied 15 points and 1 rebound to the mix.

Box Score:

I have said it before, I will say it again, I will never be the one to blame the whole game on the referees but the officiating was shaky in this game. So, I'll just leave it at that. The effort was definitely there for the Blazers. They had an EXCELLENT first half out-scoring Cleveland 54% - 50% from the field and an outstanding 42% - 17% from 3-point range (due in high part to Martell Webster's hot start). Yet, as LeBron has been known to do, James had a quiet start and came out of the gate strong in the second half. Roy had it right saying, "If we relax for even one quarter we can get blown out by anybody." And that's precisely what happened. The Blazers relaxed for that fourth quarter and Cleveland took advantage of that and ran with it. Rebounding hurt us badly, Cleveland out-rebounded us by 10 total rebounds in the game. Things seemed to still be salvageable at the end of the 3rd when the score was tied 76 all but the Cavs pulled away in the fourth and despite an impressive 5 points in about 2 seconds by the Blazers with 12 seconds left on the clock, it just wasn't enough.

Cleveland went on to win the game 104 - 99.

The Blazers next play the Milwaukee Bucks in Milwaukee to end their four game road trip tomorrow at 7:30 PM CT or 5:30 PM PST. They are currently 1 - 2 on the trip.

Keys & Notes:

The Bucks’ .717 (38-15) winning percentage is the best of any Eastern Conference team on its home floor against Portland, but the Trail Blazers have won seven of the last 10 games in Milwaukee.
The Trail Blazers have won five consecutive meetings against the Bucks, including three straight at the Rose Garden. With a win Saturday, Portland would tie its longest win streak against the Bucks, all-time (six). Portland has won 14 of the last 20 games between the teams overall.
Keep the Bucks Under 100 - The Bucks have a strong winning record when they reach 100 so far this season, they're 5 -2, so the Blazers need to keep this a low scoring game if they want to come away with the win.
Contain Brandon Jennings - Bucks Rookie, Brandon Jennings has been key to the Bucks wins. Milwaukie is 6 - 3 when Jennings hits 3 or more threes and that's not even mentioning his points in the paint.

(Pictures: David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images & Garrett W. Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

Blazers Find the Will to Win in Indiana

2009-12-12T00:04:00.000-08:00

After a tough loss in New York left Blazer fans worried, Portland traveled to Indiana for a match against the Pacers. Having lost Danny Granger to injury, Indiana was in a similar situation to the Blazers. Both teams were looking to over come adversity once again.

Starters:

Brandon Roy

LaMarcus Aldridge

Steve Blake

Martell Webster

Joel Pryzbilla

Once again, Brandon Roy led the team to the win with an outstanding 29 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assits. Great to see the all-star effort come out in this game. LaMarcus Aldridge also shined with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Not to mention he had a pretty dunk late in the game. Also notable was Joel Pryzbilla's performance, 12 points 8 rebounds and 1 blocked shot. The big guy is really stepping his game up in the wake of Greg's absence. He was getting physical in the paint and even getting in on some pick and roll action.

Box Score:

It was hardly perfect but the Blazers came out with energy and a will to win which led to a 102 - 91 win over the Indiana Pacers.

The Blazers next play the Cleveland Cavaliers at Cleveland on Friday at 5 PM PST. The game will be aired on Comcast Sportsnet and on ESPN.

Apologies on the super short post for this game, but sickness and a fever prevent me from going into much detail. For more information and post game discussion be sure to check out posts from www.blazersedge.com and www.bustabucket.com!

(Picture: Yahoo! Sports)

Blazers Struggle to Find Rhythm In Front of a Star Studded Crowd at MSG

2009-12-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Portland started a four game road trip last night in New York playing the New York Knicks in front of a star studded crowd including the likes of Rihanna, Celine Dion, Spike Lee and Chris Rock. After a night of emotional events, including the injury to Greg Oden that will take him out for the rest of the season, and a huge win against the Rockets in the books, the Blazers were once again facing adversity in the big apple. Head coach Nate McMillan underwent successful surgery on his achilles heel, but this meant he would be a no show on the road trip. Also, beloved Spaniard, Rudy Fernandez satyed home to rest a hurt back. Needless to say, the Blazers had a lot working against them and were looking to start the trip with a win against a New York team they had beaten 5 consecutive times.

Starting Five:

Brandon Roy

LaMarcus Aldridge

Martell Webster

Steve Blake

Joel Pryzbilla

High scorer of the night for Portland was, once again, Brandon Roy. B Roy knows his role and has been fighting harder than ever to keep the team within striking distance but the problem is that we need more than Roy, Aldridge and Miller to step up. A big problem we saw in the game last night was players standing around and waiting for someone else to step up. Roy tallied 27 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. He shot 9 - 19 from the field and 9 - 10 from the line. Aldridge had a great night as well producing a double-double with 19 points, 16 rebounds and 2 assists. When our two All-Stars play like this we should be winning. Also notable is Jerryd Bayless. J Bay has been given more and more minutes over the past couple of games, something I am a strong supporter of especially when Jerryd puts up numbers like these. Bayless tallied 14 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists. Bayless was one of few to go on a hot sreak but as per usual was benched. I think the coaches need to trust Bayless more and let him stick it out on the court. It's a shame that a player like J Bay who is aggressive and hustles isn't being rewarded.

It was a battle to the end but the Knicks prevailed wining the contest 93 - 84. Despite a 14 - 0 run late in the 4th quarter, the Blazers just couldn't keep up. You could definitely tell that morale and energy was low for this team. Too many times we saw a lack of communication and players simply standing on the sides watching the game rather than participating.

Times are tough but something's gotta give. This Blazers team has seen adversity before so I still refuse to count them out. It's not what we want, but I think we might have to settle with a late season surge at this point. Jeff Pendergraph, rookie forward (injured), has been quoted as saying that he could be back in action as early as Christmas so maybe he could make some changes for this team. Also, Patty Mills, rookie point guard (injured), is supposed to be ahead of schedule on his recovery as well. The more bodies we have the better right now, especially when we can only play 9 guys giving us a healthy bench of 4. Not quite an ideal situation.

The Blazers next play the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday December 9th at 4 PM PST. Remember, we're on the east coast so games are playing earlier.

Keys Keys Keysssss:

Fast play - We've got to continue working the fast break plays. Indiana likes to play fast so we need to keep up with that intensity and play fast right back at them.
Miller & Webster Step It Up - Andre Miller had 4 points against NY. We need Miller to stay consistent in the high numbers. Webster also needs to step his game up. He's the replacement for Outlaw who would come off the bench and give us baskets, so he needs to start making those baskets. If we can get Miller, Roy, Aldridge and Webster with a good scoring night we can't be beat.
STOP TURNOVERS - In last night's game we had 15 turnovers in the first half alone. Those turnovers led to 31 NY points. We need to clean up our passes and play and keep turnovers to a minimum.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

A Win for the Blazers is Overshadowed Amidst Oden's Devastating Injury

2009-12-06T23:04:00.000-08:00

Last night the Blazers met with the Houston Rockets at the Rose Garden. The Blazers, who were on a three game losing streak were looking for a win to gain confidence going into a four game road trip. Hosuton however was looking for a perfect road trip having already won three of three. The match-up which has brought intensity out of both sides in their recent meetings was looking to be a good one.

Starters:

Brandon Roy
LaMarcus Aldridge
Martell Webster
Greg Oden
Steve Blake

Rumors were abound prior to the game that Rudy Fernandez and Andre Miller would start, but Rudy sat out of this game due to back spasms. Maybe, in the future when Rudy is healthy and McMillan is back from surgery(more on that later) we will see that line-up on the court.

Brandon Roy took top honors but with a different effect last night. We have seen Brandon as the top scorer in recent games but it was a different Roy, it wasn't necessarily the all-star we have come to know. Last night's game showed Brandon Roy the All-Star. He pushed the tempo, created plays and was aggressive. Roy tallied 28 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists and was 9 - 15 from the field and an AMAZING 9 - 9 from the line. It was great to see B Roy back on his game and hopefully it's something we continue to see.
Andre Miller also had a spectacular night racking up 24 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. He shot 9 - 14 from the field and 5 - 7 from the line. Like Roy, Miller was determined and aggressive tonight driving to the basket and creating plays for the team. It was great to see play like this out of these guys, especially with Oden's injury on the minds of everyone watching.

Box Score:

The Blazers fought hard and were rewarded with the win 90 - 89. The game came down to the wire but Brandon Roy, our All-Star, stayed confident and got the basket leaving Houston with 3 seconds to answer and luckily they failed. Despite the good coming out of last night, the game will be plagued with the injury of Greg Oden.

In the 1st quarter with 7:45 left on the clock, Aaron Brooks went up for a lay in and Greg Oden followed. Only one of them came down safely. Greg fell to the floor immediately grabbing his knee, Brandon Roy came to his side and alerted the referees to stop game play while Houston's medical staff ran to Greg's aid(this all went down in front of the Houston bench). A silence went across the Rose Garden as medical staff rushed onto the court and the Blazers coaching staff followed. I, myself was not in the Rose Garden for the game, I was observing from the media truck outside and saw every camera angle of the incident. It appears that Aaron and Greg didn't touch but that the injury occured as Greg left the ground.

This injury was painful in more ways than one. It looked painful, his knee was indented but at the same time there was pain in knowing that all expectations for this team came crashing down in that moment. I will never forget seeing the shot of Greg Oden, with a pained look on his face that said 'sorry', look up at Brandon Roy who kneeled at his side and held his hand throughout this ordeal. The team all rushed onto the court to help Greg onto the gourney and everyone hugged him on his way out. This moment showed how close the Blazers are and how much Greg means to this team. Brandon Roy, who was by Greg's side as medical staff were helping him, was asked Did You Talk to Him and said, "I just told him, 'man, keep your head up.' On the court he looked at me like 'sorry' and put his head down. I was like, 'nah, no way, man, no way.' You can't predict these things. You've got to do your best to stay positive. We're going to do our best to fill in for you. I just kept trying to tell him, man look, we love you. Get better."

It was determined that Oden had a fractured patella(knee cap) on his left knee. Greg underwent knee surgery last night and had two screws placed on his knee cap and it was noted that no ligaments were damaged. Which is a damn good thing because it means that full recovery is not only possible but likely. The 7 foot center will be out for about four months. I think Kevin Pritchard (GM of the Blazers) said it best with, "The challenging part for me is sometimes life's not fair. You know. I've seen this kid work his tail off here. He has put in the work. He has done absolutely everything we've asked him to do. And more. And he's going to go through that again."

This is devastating for the Blazers, but I believe if any team can beat adversity, it's this team. True, we don't have a back up center now but just look at the Houston Rockets, they have no center at all! I think this injury gives the Blazers the chance to work on fast play and pushing the ball. I will keep faith in the Blazers. I believe they can make it out of this but, hey Nicolas Batum.....can we speed up the healing process? Please?

Also something to note, as mentioned earlier, Nate McMillan will not be joining the Blazers on this road trip. He is also injured and will be under going surgery on his foot. The Portland Head Coach sported a walking boot cast on his right foot at the game last night. Assistant Coach Dean Domopolus will be filling in the role of head coach and Monty Williams will take on the Assistant Coach role for the road trip. Rudy Fernandez will also be staying home for the trip resting his back.

Portland next plays the New York Knicks at the Madison Square Garden on Monday, December 7th.

Keys, Keys, Keys:

Keep it clean Joel - With Greg Oden out, there is no back up center for Joel. I'm assuming we'll see LaMarcus or Juwan play a kind of forward center position at some point to give Pryz a break but with that said, Joel needs to keep fouling to a minimum. Luckily the team was able to get in a practice today where they undoubtedly went over the changes with GO out.
Keep it under 100 - As I said in the last post, the Blazers thrive when their opponent scores low and the Knicks thrive when they're able to score high so we need to keep this a low scoring game for NY
Fast Break It - With GO out we have more chances then ever to play a fast paced game. We need our guys to run the floor and take advatage of all fast breaks. Which leads to:
Points in the Paint - We have constantly been outscored in the paint so far this season. That needs to change! We need more guys to get aggressive and not just settle for the outside shot.
Free Throws - As always, getting to the line is extremely important. If we can beat NY to the line, we can beat them in this game.

(Pictures: Yahoo! Sports)

Miami Heats Things Up In the Rose Garden

2009-12-05T07:04:00.000-08:00

Tuesday night, the Blazers met with the Miami Heat at the Rose Garden and after two losses, Portland was looking for a win against one of the best players in the league to boost their spirits.

Starters:

Brandon Roy
Steve Blake
Martell Webster
Greg Oden
DANTE CUNNINGHAM?!

That's right, your eyes do not fool you. LaMarcus Aldridge had a knee bone contusion and opted to sit out of the game(On the positive end, LA looked damn good in his suit)so none other than rookie, Dante Cunningham stepped up to fill in his spot. He tallied a respectable 6 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist in 18 minutes of play. I think nerves got the best of him in his first NBA career start, but that's just me. I am officially a member of the Team Dante movement, which is not slowing down! The rook offers some much needed hustle and energy on the court. He'll definitely be one to watch to see how he'll develop with more playing time and experience.

Box Score:

Brandon Roy was once again on top with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. The shooting guard shot a measly 9 - 25 from the field and 3 - 8 from 3-point range. Andre Miller takes the silver spot with 18 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists. Juwan Howard played some serious game and tallied 14 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assits. Also, Greg Oden had a remarkable game with 13 points and a career high 20 rebounds, count 'em 20! Yet all of these stats were not enough to win the game.

Miami came away with the win 107 - 100.

It was a close battle in the end but the Blazers couldn't stand the heat (pun ~~not~~ intended). This game ended with the Blazers not having a lead in 11.5 quarters. The ability was there but the drive just wasn't. Things still aren't clicking quite right for Portland. Too many times I saw turnovers from lack of communication or no communication at all. Hopefully we get out of the slump and get out of it soon! This loss means a 3 game losing streak for the Blazers, the first in over a year.

The Blazers next play the Houston Rockets on Saturday at the Rose Garden.

Keys:

Keep Houston out of the Paint - With the loss of Yao and TMac, Houston's game relies much more on speed and drives into the paint. If we can stop players like Aaron Brooks, Trevor Ariza, Kyle Lowry and Luis Scola from being permanent fixtures down there, we have a good chance of pulling a W out of this thing.
Low Scoring Game - If we can keep Houston under 100 points that will mean good things for us. We play better and win more games when we keep the opponent under 100.
FREE THROWS - whoever can get to the line the most will have a better chance of winning. Plain and simple.