Blazers’ Playoff Hopes Take a Major Hit in Loss to Thunder
The Portland Trail Blazers had a prime chance on Friday to improve their position in the Western Conference playoff race, facing an Oklahoma City Thunder team missing MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
However, the Blazers struggled mightily and were blown out. A win would have moved them up in the standings, especially with both the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns losing, but instead, Portland remains four games behind the final spot in the West Play-In tournament. This loss served as a stark reminder that making the postseason is no easy feat, and the Blazers will need consistent effort to get there.
Portland’s offense faltered, shooting just 34.7 percent from the field and 18.6 percent from three-point range, contributing to their defeat.
Head coach Chauncey Billups spoke about the team’s struggles, particularly in the second quarter when Portland allowed a 19-2 Thunder run to close out the half, creating a large deficit.
“We didn’t give ourselves a chance in that first half,” Billups said. “I didn’t think we pressured. We got away from who we are defensively. We let them drive around us without help, which gave them confidence, and it really backfired on us. We got ourselves into too big of a hole.”
Despite the setback, the Blazers fought back and cut the lead to two points. However, the Thunder regained control, and Portland couldn’t finish the comeback.
“We fought like crazy and got it to two,” Billups said. “But in those situations, you almost have to play perfect. After fighting so hard, I think we ran out of gas and couldn’t score the last six minutes.”
Now, all the Blazers can do is regroup and prepare for their next game against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. They will need to secure a win to stay on track in the standings.
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