The Portland Trail Blazers are going through a rebuilding phase at the moment. A team that once boasted athletes of the caliber of Terry Porter, Bill Walton, Lenny Wilkens, and more has been struggling to find its footing. After a modest season last year, the Trail Blazers were expected to turn things around this season.
Unfortunately, if their season opener was an indication, things would be looking quite somber for the Trail Blazers’ fans. Facing against the mighty Golden State Warriors, the entire Blazers’ unit failed to make a mark. Succumbing to a 139-104 humiliation, the head coach of the team did not seem to be too pleased with his outfit.
Pointing out a significant lack of application throughout the game. Frustrated at the showing, coach Chauncey Billups stated, “I don’t think a single player played well tonight.” via Danny Marang on X.
Now, at first glance, it might seem that Billups is being harsh. But a quick recap of the match will unveil the actual beating that the Blazers took at the hands of a Draymond Green-less Golden State Warriors. In fact, the 35-point drubbing was one of the biggest margins of defeat in an NBA season opener in recent times.
Portland Trail Blazers Put Up A Sorry Show Despite Leading Initially
As astounding as it might seem, the Portland Trail Blazers actually began stronger than the Warriors. After the initial period, the Blazers saw themselves enjoy a nine points lead over the Steph Curry-led side. Unfortunately, the joyride for the Blazers was not meant to last long. Coming into the half with a 62-50 lead, the Warriors immediately took control.
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With every passing second, the lead grew more and more, giving them a 37-point advantage at one point. Thanks to the Blazers’ lackluster showing, the Warriors had the luxury to rest Stephen Curry for the entire fourth quarter. While Curry scored only 17 points, the bulk of the task was shared between Buddy Heild and Andrew Wiggins.
While Hield chipped in with 22 points in a 15-minute spell, Wiggins impressed with 20 points, as Moses Moody contributed with 15. Thus, with the game ending as a sorry story for the Blazers, they must learn from their mistakes and look to bounce back. After all, it is just one game and the entire season can be theirs if the Billups’ team plays their card right from hereon.
Also Read: Portland Trail Blazers vs. Golden State Warriors: Date, Venue, Start Time, And Streaming Details