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Mike Barrett
Television play-by-play voice of the Blazers on KGW-TV 8 and Fox Sports Net
Stream Courtside LIVE on Thursday's at 6:00pm on 750am KXL

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Atlanta Shoots Down Blazers
Grant Hill Hits Game Winner
The Beast from the East
The Beast from the East
Defensive Breakdowns Blamed
Przybilla Likely to Return Tuesday
Suns Take Charge Early
Hot-Shooting Kings Storm Blazers
Another Gutty Effort, Another Dramatic Win
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Defensive Breakdowns Blamed
posted: 11/29/2006 at 7:56 AM

The identity of this Portland team was established in the first few games. The hard-working, scrappy, defensive-minded, never-say-die-attitude-Blazers were showing what they could be when they truly bought into Nate McMillan's philosophy. Following last night's 105-97 loss to the Indiana Pacers, McMillan said the team has to get back to what was bringing them wins. He was mostly talking about defense.

Several games ago I had scratched a note to myself on my desk. It simply says "Portland is 5 and 0 when holding opponents under 100 points." Forget the offense. When you're a young, shorthanded team, you're going to have to outwork people at the defensive end. You can't always control whether or not your outside shot is falling, but you can always give a better effort on defense.

For the third game in a row a Blazer opponent scored over 100, and this time it wasn't the high-scoring Kings, or Phoenix Suns. The Pacers came into the game averaging 95 points per game, which ranked them 25th in that catagory in the NBA. They shot 52 percent from the field, 38 percent from behind the three-point line, and had 28 assists on 38 field goals.

Despite those numbers from Indiana's offense, and Portland's struggles shooting the ball, the game was still tied at 75 after three quarters. So, give the Blazers credit there. They had battled back from an 11-point hole they dug in the first two minutes of the third quarter, and were in a good position, on their home floor, to pull out the game with a strong defensive mindset in the fourth quarter. It didn't happen that way, as the Pacers put up 30 points in the quarter.

In defense of the Blazers, over the past three games they've caught some pretty good teams at perhaps the wrong time. Sacramento returned Brad Miller and Ron Artest to the lineup on Saturday in that game, and were better than they had showed in their recent games. Phoenix had been struggling and was due for a good game. They played their best game of the season Sunday night. And, Indiana was kicking off a 5-game western swing, following a humbling loss to Toronto on Sunday. They were looking at last night's game as a must win. I also think it is safe to say all three of those teams are better than their records. McMillan doesn't want to hear excuses like that, but it's reality.

It was nice to see Joel Przybilla return to the lineup for Portland against Indiana. He played just 7 minutes in the first half, but went 16 in the second half, and grabbed 10 rebounds. His return will undoubtedly help the team defensively.

Jarrett Jack recorded a career-high 21 points, and also had 6 assists on no turnovers. He continues to improve. The Blazers, as a team, outrebounded Indiana 47-34, and recorded 21 offensive rebounds. You don't lose very often when you grab that many offensive boards and outrebound a team by that margin. The problem was, they shot an uncharacteristic 39 percent from the floor, their lowest percentage of the season.

Zach Randolph had 30 points and 11 rebounds, but was just 11 for 27 from the field. We said this before the game on the TV broadcast, and it held true in this game- no one in the NBA defends Zach like Indiana's Jeff Foster. That's the reason Rick Carlisle started Foster last night. He forced Zach into the 11 for 27, and also caused him to turn the ball over 5 times. Keep in mind, the Blazers play this Indiana team again next Friday, in Indianapolis.

There are two home games left before the long six-game trip back east. Orlando is in town on Friday, and Atlanta is at the Garden Sunday. You can bet the Blazers won't be spending much time on offense in practice today or Thursday.

 
18 Comments:
dlsfan said...

I know Zach has had a great begining this season but he still seems to be looking the other direction when opposing player drive to the bascket. On offense he sould be our first option but not the only option. The offense is bogging down trying to run everything through Zach. As good as Zach is he still appears to be part of the problem, not the solution.

9:26 AM  
mjrgramaje said...

Mike Barrett's Blogs are so much better than John Canzano's from the Paper, Mike writes the facts and John just write negetive stuff only. Good Job Mike!!! They will learn to play Defense, There still playing good these are just championship caliber teams there playing right now. I am real happy to watch Portland this year because they actually look like they care about this season more than last. Hopefully they keep trying and the wins will come with experance. Go Blazers!!! I believe in you.

9:59 AM  
Mark said...

Well, coach Nate did what I thought he should have done last night by playing Joel and Jamaal at the center and having LaMarcus come in at the 4 spot while Travis moved down to the 3 spot. It would have worked out just fine if Portland could have made some shots. When you out rebound your oppnonent by 10, you should not lose. Portland needs to play more of a 2-3 zone. I guess it doesn't help all that much that our best perimeter defender is still out with the heel injury.

If Roy's injury doesn't look any better after this next MRI scan, than I suggest he go in for surgery to completely fix the problem. If his heel does look better, I would think that there's still a very high possibility of re-aggrivating the heal and we'll all be in the same position we're in now. Hopefully Roy can get back out on the court soon! By the way MB, I love your blogs! Keep up the good work.

11:23 AM  
ProudBFan said...

Thanks for keeping the Blogs going, Mike. As usual, a couple of comments:

1. I'm sure you didn't mean to state that the Pacers were averaging 25 points per game coming into last night's game.

2. It's not just defense. It's offense, too. The Blazers simply do not have dependable perimeter shooting to compliment their decent inside game. If Nate isn't drilling the boys on their perimeter shooting - with hands in their faces - he should be.

3. And it's not just defense and offense. It's the transition game too. As in, the Blazers have almost NO transition game. They constantly take their time getting the ball up the court, and letting their opponents set up defensive shop all the while. And they are getting beat back down the court on fully half of their opponents' possessions when their opponents employ a full-court attack.

4. And it's not just defense, offense, and transition game. It's rebounding, too. The Blazers are dead last in the NBA in total rebounds per game at this point in the season.

5. And it's not just defense, offense, transition game, and rebounding. It's the Blazer Dancers, too. They just aren't trying hard enough!

6. On the serious side, I still can NOT figure out why Brandon, the Blazers, and the physicians didn't just decide to do the surgery as soon as the pain became an issue. It's not like that bone is going to shrink all by itself. He could be well on his way to recovery by now, instead of still being lost in uncertainty.

I know the boyz will improve and that it's going to take time. I didn't expect them to really begin clicking until the 2nd half of the season, anyway. We have had a number of great stories and pleasant surprises already this season, and I'm sure more are in store for us.

So I'm not giving up on the boyz, but I AM concerned that many of them may become discouraged as the losses pile up. The only way they are going to turn things around is to grit their teeth and rededicate themselves to doing just that, no matter how many games they lose.

GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

11:46 AM  
pepeseldon said...

For God Sake!!! When is going Portland coach to realize that Sergio Rodriguez deserve much more minutes on the court??? Sergio has everything a point guard needs ... I know he is very young but he has a huge experience playing complicated games and he doesn´t hide when his team needs him (if you want a good example of that, you should see the semifinal against Argentina in the last World Championship in Japan).

1:22 PM  
MadDogg said...

Defense, defense, defense. Everyone is saying it, and yet no one seems to be thinking about where the problem is coming from. It's easy, his name is Z-Bo. He never gets back, he rotates slowly or not at all, his footwork is too slow, and mostly he just saves his energy for offense.

Speaking of which, his offense is predictable, it slows ball movement, disrupts the offensive flow, causes needless turnovers, and generates buckets less than half the time.

He has talent, but also has an oversized ego, very little court vision, horrific ball handling skills, and most importantly, a massive contract.

My advice. Let Randolph have his 30-12 at the expense of winning. When Roy comes back, give him the oppurtunity to find his role as a #2 option. If not, get rid of him.

It doesn't matter if he goes somewhere else and plays well, he's not playing well here. Period. Stats don't mean jack, if you can't play as a team, you can't win. Period. Go Blazers. Period.

1:39 PM  
shawn said...

The problem with this Blazers team is that they rely way too much on Zach, also Dixon. Last night in the 4th. Zach, an Dixon continued to shoot the ball. Dont get me wrong they did hit some, but the point is when they take that many shots in a row like they did an do, it isnt very hard for the other team to figure out who to guard and who is going to get the ball. In my opinion Jack is the go to guy, he has a higher field go percentage. I think most of the better teams in the NBA are good because of the point guard as well as defence...

4:18 PM  
RJNelson18 said...

The reason the Blazers lost last night was not because of a defensive breakdown, it was from Joel not being 100% in shape, and Brandon sitting on the bench. Once everybody gets back, it will all take shape.
Go Blazers.

5:53 PM  
RealisticFan said...

Oh ... my ... gosh! Shut up about Sergio already. I know there are a lot of fans of this kid, but let's try to be a little objective here! He has some talent and he'll be a good player for the Blazers in a year or two. But if Sergio were to play more minutes than he is now, it would actually stunt his progress. He has a lot of bad habits that will only correct themselves through consistent repetition in practice. Nate McMillan is much, much smarter than all the Sergio lovers on this board, so trust his coaching instincts and stop clamoring for more minutes for Sergio. Nate is giving him as much time as he deserves!

9:07 PM  
mrblazer said...

I disagree, in part, with realisticfan. First of all, i think Sergio is good, right now. I suspect he'll only improve over the next couple of years. Also, i don't think more time would stunt Sergio's development. Sergio has been playing at a high level for a long time, now. It's not like he just became a McDonald's all-star. The guy is a world champion.
These bad habbits of his must have slipped my mind when he was dropping 10 dimes and scoring 9 points on 4 of 5 shooting in 22 minutes. I wish Jack had some of those bads habbits, as well. It seems Sergio has a bad habbit of leading the league in assists per 48 minutes.

I agree that we should be patient with Sergio, but i don't think Jack needs to be playing 40+ minutes a game. My main problem with the minute distribution at PG, however, is just that Dickou continues to get minutes handed to him he hasn't earned. I can only think of one decent game he has had all season. Why should Sergio be splitting back-up minutes with him?

11:48 PM  
DT-Vinsanity said...

realisticfan, saying that coach McMillian is always right with his decisions is not really realistic, in fact is very relative... I mean, what about the time when McMillian had Dickau as the second PG of the rotation and Sergio was the third? Was it a "smart" decision? If you're correct and the coach is sooooo smart and always fair with the decisions he has made, then both Dickau and Sergio deserve to be at the same time the 2nd point guard of the team, and that's a sort of contradiction.

In my opinion, the fact that Sergio has progressively been playing more and more minutes is the evidence that coach McMillian, initially, was not sure about Sergio's skills to play NBA games, but now Nate has realised that he does have those skills. Maybe Nate understimated Sergio when he said he should go to the D-League before the season had started; I'm pretty sure Nate has changed his mind a little bit on that and now he doesn't think Sergio should go the D-League.

Of course, Jarrett Jack is, today, a better PG than Sergio, and Jarrett is starting. No doubt about it. Probably Sergio will be able to improve his NBA skills and get experience if he plays 20 minutes every game (and that's something normal, like any other 2nd PG of the league), and when people say that he should play more, I think they're just refering to this, to play 20 minutes, and not to start Sergio.

By the way, I can't really understand what you're refering to with "he has a lot of bad habits". As far as I remember, McMilian said in September that "Sergio knows where to be on the court" and said that was because "his natural basketball IQ", but he never said anything about "a lot of bad habits"... and if McMillian is so smart, then he is smarter than you and me, and if he has not said anything about those bad habits, then Sergio hasn't got them. I'm just following your way of thinking about it.

The only "bad" thing he's said about him is that as he's still learning English he loses a bit of communication in the court... which is not a bad habit to be corrected in practice, and still, despite of it, his numbers in assists are really high, and drives the team to play better when he's on the court, which is basically the purpose of a true PG.

I just can't imagine how good Sergio can be in a year or two.

P.D Mike, any updates about Brandon Roy's heel?

5:10 AM  
Adrenalize said...

Couple things here...
First, the defense is glaringly the biggest problem. We really need to improve the interior defense, (during the Suns game it looked like they were performing layup drills on us)so hopefully with Joel back that will help. Also, with soo much youth on this team, we should NEVER be getting beat soo often in transition!
Second, what is the deal with Martell? Teams are clogging the middle and playing Zack tough, only way to stop that is effective outside shooting and Martell is supposed to be the guy for that. He has been almost invisible lately. He needs to get start creating shots for himself and not be soo tentative. Dixon shoots almost twice as often with less minutes. With Martell, Outlaw and Jack shooting from outside, Zack would have a lot more room to move inside and create lanes for Outlaw and Jack to get to the rim also.

When you mention being last in the NBA in rebounding, there arent a whole lot of rebounds to be had when your opponent is shooting +50% from the field.

5:31 AM  
BLAZER PROPHET said...

It's not only defense (watching Pacers walk the ball by Zebo and score while he watches on makes me want to vomit) but just plain experience. The Pacers are a veteran group and know how to milk a call, execute just a bit better when needed... all the things we will do in a couple of years.

7:06 AM  
L.A.PortlandFan said...

Ok, so throughout the years I have had a ruff time being down here in L.A. yet remaining a die hard Portland fan. But it has really given me the chance to look from the outside in. I have noticed that there is something that seems to happen with us blazer fans when we have some small snafu's in our game play. We immediately become bitter and start blaming whomever we can. Except ourselves.

The one main reason why I totally love Portland is the immense feeling of heart that the city portrays. Now there have been small blurbs where it seemed that the team was also reflective of the cities character, but not often enough. Basketball is a game that is highly dependant on skills. But in my opinion the greatest skill has nothing to do with ball handling, or shooting, or even conditioning. It has to do with passion! I believe that a team has to be just that, Passionate. When you look at all the teams that have been champions throughout the years you can recognize one thing. Teamwork/Unity. Now maybe if we see more of Rasheed Wallace type passion with less Ruben Patterson type complaining or blaming, then the team would find its niche; Start to gel and see that problems can be fixed when a Portrait in turned into a Mural. Let’s rally behind the blazers. Lets show that heart which has made the Rose Garden one of the loudest Arenas in sports history. Let’s just say "hey we have our lineup now let’s throw all in a bowl, mix it round and come out with a playoff caliber cake". What do ya say Portland, do you have the heart I always admired and relished in, or are you going to implode once more. I firmly believe that the sixth man sitting in the stands or 1,200 miles to the south listening on KXL, really make a team or a city what it should be.

12:12 PM  
The Back Judge said...

Having watched Jarrett Jack for 3 years at Georgia Tech, I can vouch for his leadership, especially on the defensive end of the floor. Sergio Rodriguez may be a talented player, but to place the burden of leadership on him at this early stage of his career would be wrong. Furthermore, to point to Sergio's 9-point 10-assist outing as reason for more minutes is absurd. Before you blindly accept statistics, consider the context in which they were obtained. Those 9 points and 10 assists were earned in a 119-101 blowout loss to the Suns (a team that likes to run) in "garbage minutes" as some like to call it. Spectacular statistics do not always equate to spectacular performances.

1:19 PM  
peregrinebrm said...

Sergio has played well lately, yes. It can be difficult to improve young players, but Sergio has made it easy in his case by being good enough to play real back-up minutes. Be sure that the staff is watching him carefully.

With regard to bad habits and earlier caution on McMillan's part, well, remember the pre-season? One box score near the end showed Sergio with 8 turnovers in 19 minutes. I can't remember ever seeing such a thing before, and Dickau is an established, steady player who dropped 40 on Portland two years ago. So the staff should be excused for being cautious with Sergio, while on the other hand their recent use of him proves that they didn't lose sight of or forget him. He's already helping the team and should get better and better.

3:21 PM  
Westside Erik said...

WHAT IN THE WORLD is going on with Brandon? I sat and watched him for awhile (through binoculars) during the first half of the Phoenix debacle and let me tell you, the expression on his face was of someone that looked very uncomfortable and, dare I say, confused. My whole big fear about his situation is that he was improperly diagnosed, which is not uncommon and happens all the time. I feel like someone in charge got the wrong info, made the wrong call, didn't seek secondary medical advice, something. I strongly feel the Blazers need to address the public with the exact course of events surrounding his condition over the last three weeks and why they chose to pursue the method of treatment they did. Sorry for the rant but this just reeks of a pathetic treatment that has resulted in a major waste of time.

11:09 PM  
mrblazer said...

In Sergio's first meaningful action this season, he had 8 assists in the final quarter against Minnesota who kept playing in fear of losing a lead, once again. The very next night he had 8 assists again in 26 minutes of meaningful action in a game where JJ played poorly for 21 minutes. Against NJ, in the first half, Portland was -22 with Jack on the floor and +9 with Sergio. Jack recovered and had a nice second half, but we would have had a much bigger hill to climb for a win had Sergio not performed as he did. In the 5 games that Sergio has played at least 12 minutes, he's averaging about 6.6 assists in about 18.4 mpg. That's 17+ assists per 48 minutes. Numbers like that at any point in the game are remarkable.

Do know what you're talking about, and watch more than one game, before calling one's campaign absurd. Thinking Sergio is incapable of handling a backup role on this team, independently, is what is absurd. Anyone who watched the World Championship tournament and all his games thus far in the regular season could easily see he's capable.

1:07 AM  

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Przybilla Likely to Return Tuesday
posted: 11/27/2006 at 9:24 PM


Tired of seeing opposing players score on his team at point-blank range, Blazers coach Nate McMillan seemed relieved after Monday's practice, and said, "help is on the way." He was referring to Joel Przybilla, who, after sitting out three weeks, will likely return to the court on Tuesday night when the Blazers host the Indiana Pacers.

In the second game of the season, at Golden State, Przybilla went up to contest a drive by Troy Murphy, and took a knee square to the abdomen. He continued to play in the game, but in the following days suffered through intense pain and swelling, and was ordered to bed (or the couch) for 4-5 days. The recovery has been much longer than he anticipated, and much more painful as well. He told me many times during the past three weeks that this was the most painful injury he's ever had as an athlete. He finally underwent surgery on the 17th, and is now nearing full strength.

Przybilla practiced on Monday, and certainly looked ready to return game action. He was swatting shots, pulling down rebounds, and even displaying a little offense. The Blazer frontline will welcome him back with open arms. They have been badly needing the help of a shot blocker inside, and have been surrendering a lot of points in the paint. Phoenix had 56 points in the paint on Sunday, and Sacramento had 44 on Saturday, and those are teams not noted for their inside, post-up play.

Raef LaFrentz has returned to practice as well, but won't likely suit up for Tuesday's game. He could, however, be set for a return on Friday when the Orlando Magic come to town. LaFrentz pulled a calf muscle during training camp, and then re-injured it at practice, before the second game of the season. His inside play, and long-range shooting should be a big help when he returns.

Brandon Roy was at practice on Monday, still wearing the boot on his left foot. A timetable for his return is still very much up in the air, unfortunately. Friday Roy will undergo an MRI on his left heel, and more should be known after that. Doctors are hoping the inflammation around the talus bone will be down, and as a precaution, will likely recommend that he stay in the boot for at least another week. If all goes well, he could then perhaps return to activity. A return to practice would follow that. If he's still pain free, a return to action could be on the horizon some time after that. Surgery is being looked at as a last option at this point, but nothing more is known at this time.

I spent about 20 minutes with Brandon following practice today, and as you would expect, it's killing him not to be playing. "I had a great start, and really proved to myself that I can succeed at this level," Roy told me. "Then, this happened. I'm frustrated, but also am just counting the days until I can get back in there. My teammates need me, and I think I can help them."

Roy still isn't sure why he all of a sudden had this severe pain in his heel. He says he never had a problem with it in college, and says that makes it all the more frustrating. "It was bothering me a little bit in the first couple of games," says Roy. "Then in the Minnesota game (Nov.4), I remember coming down and coming to a hard jump stop. I really felt it then. I told Jay (Jensen, Portland's trainer) I could finish that game and stayed in. Then, in the game against the Clippers it really flared up on me and I had to come out. I tried playing again in the next game against the Lakers, but it was just too painful. Hopefully, this time spent resting it will take care of the problem. I'm just not sure right now, and that's what's so difficult."

The Trail Blazers and Pacers go at it Tuesday night at the Rose Garden. Indiana is off to a disappointing 7-7 start, and is opening a difficult 5-game western swing. The Pacers have won five straight against the Blazers, their longest winning streak in the history of the series.

The game will be televised on FSN at 7 o'clock, and can also be heard on the Trail Blazers Radio Network.

 
8 Comments:
Mark said...

It sure will be good to get Joel back. I'm sure he will be a tad rusty for a few quarters since he hasn't played in over two weeks, but just his presence in the lineup should put a little fear into opposing teams.

When Joel comes back at full strength, do you know how the Center rotation will play out now that we've seen what LaMarcus can do, Mike? I think Travis Outlaw will drop down to the three spot and LaMarcus will come in for Zach off the bench at the 4 spot. And of course Jamaal backing up Joel. I'm entrigued to see what Coach Nate does with the lineup.

4:53 AM  
spanishchocolate said...

Hy guys, Spain is here!

Again we saw Sergio enjoing himself and improving day after day. He finally achieved one of his dreams that is to play against Steve Nash. Congratullations.

Sunday was a bit strange day. In the morning Estudiantes lost against Lagun Aro, with Nacho Azofra managing them. It was exciting to hear "la Demencia" singing all over the match "Nachocho, Nachocho, ..." At night we could saw Sergio playing for Portland, still a bit difficult for Estudiantes fans. Hopefully in a very near future Portland's fans will shout his name in Rose Garden Arena. Try to do so and you will see how he can improve. We've bought Spanish Christmas Lottery of number 11011, that will be the winner this year "El Gordo" so we can earn enough money to travel to Portland and make some fun with Sergio. Just wait and see.
Good luck for the week.

5:30 AM  
mrblazer said...

Mike, do you know if Portland has any exhibition games against international competition planned in the future? That would be a lot of fun.

I think Zach is going to have a huge night, tonight. I hope Joel has been able to keep up at least a little bit with conditioning. It'll be interesting to see what happens with the rotation once we get all our guys back. I'd like to see Aldridge and Sergio to continue to get minutes, but i also want to win. I think Nate is still coaching to win at this point, and i trust he'll get the best rotation figured out.

Also, is Zach having problems with his knee?

12:56 PM  
Mike Barrett said...

mrblazer,

We know the NBA continues to send teams overseas for exhibitions against foreign teams. Sooner or later, the Blazers will get the call. Spain perhaps?
Zach isn't having trouble with his knees. He left the game on Sunday and had them iced, and we showed a shot or two of that on TV. Several people have asked me about this. Everyone ices after games, and being Zach's night was over early, he just got a jump start on that process. He has been taking an pounding, but he's healthy.

MB

3:07 PM  
Maria4878 said...

Hi Mike! It is going to be great to see Joel back in action. I think Mike Rice's Key to the game tonight should be Joel Przybilla. We have such a promising team this year and I am very glad to see where the organization is heading. Good luck tonight!

Maria :-)

4:36 PM  
ShSstorm said...

Its funny,
people have seen what portland can do in the beginning of the season but since then we have almost lost the respect around the NBA i think with joel and lafrentz back and soon roy we will have our playoff team back in full swing and show everyone what rip city is all about

your fan

Andrew

5:54 PM  
paper wings said...

I absolutely love travis outlaw! I have been watching the Blazers the past few years and when he first started playing I knew he would eventually be a star! Joel Pryzbilla and Dairus Miles are great too. I am glad you got rid of damen.

10:30 PM  
paper wings said...

By the way, I never get to see the Blazers anymore since I moved back to Texas. It has made me very, very sad. I love the Blazers!

10:31 PM  

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Suns Take Charge Early
posted: 11/26/2006 at 10:19 PM


Just minutes into Sunday night's game against the Phoenix Suns at the Rose Garden, the Trail Blazers were faced with some familiar problems- how to get Zach Randolph the ball, and how to stop their opponent from getting easy looks at the rim. Zach was doubled and tripled by a swarming Suns defense, and scored 18 points with just 28 minutes, but they were hard-earned points. The effort to pound the ball inside resulted in a somewhat stagnant Portland offense, and the Suns did what they do best- run and score.

For the second straight game, the Blazers' saw their opponent shoot an extremely high percentage in the first half, and got in an early hole. Like Saturday's game at Sacramento, the hold was too deep, and the Blazers ended up falling 119-101.

Raja Bell missed a new career high by one field goal, scoring 30 points in 41 minutes. He was 10 for 19 from the field, including 7 for 12 from behind the three-point line. Two-time MVP Steve Nash was at his best, scoring 23 points and dishing out 10 assists. Nash would say after the game that this may have the Suns' best game of the season.

The Trail Blazers were led offensively by Travis Outlaw, who netted a new career high of 22 points on 8 of 17 shooting. Jarrett Jack scored 13 points and dished out five assists, but also turned the ball over four times.

One troubling stat catagory in the past two games for Portland was points in the paint. They gave up 44 points in the paint against the Kings on Saturday, and surrendered 54 in the paint against Phoenix. The hustling Suns also recorded 17 fast-break points, and 21 second-chance points.

Outlaw's 22 points, came while playing a career-high 45 minutes. He was thrust into a bigger role against the Suns when LaMarcus Aldridge was hit with two quick fouls, and then also took an elbow to the mouth from Phoenix's Jalen Rose. Aldridge needed five stitches to close the wound, and then tried to go in the second half, until he was hit again and was taken out of the game.

Aldridge's foul trouble, and injury, left the Blazers thin in the middle. That helped Phoenix rack up the points in the paint, and outrebound Portland 41-35. Help is on the way on the Blazer front line. Joel Przybilla is expected to practice Monday, and there' s a chance he'll be in uniform Tuesday.

The Trail Blazers' four-game homestand continues on Tuesday night when they host the Indiana Pacers at the Rose Garden.

 
12 Comments:
[Pablete] said...

Hard to believe. Another awesome exibithion of talent of PG Sergio Rodriguez ang again you do no comment anithing at all.

12:51 AM  
Brad said...

Let's hope we bounce back when Roy and Pryzbilla are healthy. Fans might start thinking last season never ended unless something happens quickly.

1:23 AM  
Tmacjato said...

its incredible!! can you talk about Sergio?He did 10 assists and 9 point in 22 minutes and nobody talks about him!!

2:40 AM  
rotgo said...

Does anybody still have doubts about Rodriguez?

5:00 AM  
YellowJackets said...

Has coach McMillan thought about starting Sergio and Jack? It doesnt seem like any of the other guards are doing that well. Maybe Sergio at the 1 and Jack at the 2 (or vice versa). At least until Roy gets back.

7:18 AM  
Mike Barrett said...

And just the other day someone was giving me a hard time for gushing too much about Sergio. He has even laughed and said he's going to start paying me to be his publicist. I love that he has so many fans, and if you're a regular reader, you know I'm one of them.

yellowjackets,

Not a bad idea. Jarrett played the two-guard spot a lot last season, and is big enough to guard some bigger shooting guards. They'd be a quicker team with that combination on the floor, that's for sure.

MB

9:02 AM  
reff said...

I was at the Phoenix game and love our young guys and the potential of this group, but I find our offense vey dull and one dimensional. We try to get it into Zach, then when he cant't force up a shot due to double covergage, we jack up an outside shot before the clock expires. We do not run plays for the other 4 on court that result in any easy baskets. Until we get production from the others on court, we are going to be very easy to defend.

9:36 AM  
Happy Camper said...

Mike: Aldridge, Sergio, and Roy -- The only thing that is working against them is their experience level. I say give them as much chance without burning them out as we can. As earlier sugguested Jack can easily play the 2. Tell nate I Dare him to start Sergio like he has Aldridge and Roy,, I Guess with three rookies i can make that a "Tripple Dog Dare" lol.

10:15 AM  
YellowJackets said...

I think a speedy offense would help overcome some of the dragging that has come about lately. Think of the speed the offense would have with a lineup of Serge, Jack, Outlaw, Aldridge, and Randolph. Uptempo would be a understatement.

11:16 AM  
porterfan30 said...

Starting both PG wouold be interesting but let's not give up on Martell. I would like to see Martell get some confidence taking the ball to the basket. I think Webster is the future of the org. just as much as any youngster.

11:52 AM  
mrblazer said...

Sergio's passes are accurate and on time. It looks easy, but it isn't. Jack's passes to Martell and other shooters often are a hair late, making it difficult for shooters to get their shots off. I think Martell should get his minutes with Sergio whenever possible. This may be suicide, defensively, but when we can get away with it, we should take advantage.

Sergio is not only the best passer on the team, but his vision is matched by very few in the league. Soon, defenses will start adjusting to Sergio and force him to prove he can score. He kept the defense honest, last night, and i know he can score on a consistent basis. Offensively, i think he's the most talented player we have outside of Randolph and Roy.
There just aren't many players in the league that make players around them better. Depending on what kind of ball you want to play, you have to consider Sergio as the future PG of the franchise.

I wonder if Phoenix's front office and owner were puking, last night, while thinking of their fantastic decision to give us Sergio for a small contribution to their bottom line. There is no other player in the league who's game mirrors the aging Nash's as much as Sergio's. I will never understand what they were thinking.

1:47 PM  
DPM Moose said...

I'm still waiting for Rodriguez, Aldridge, Outlaw, and Roy to all be on the floor at the same time. Seems like that could be a team that could really run the floor, with Roy stretching the court with his ability to hit the jumper. And Outlaw and LA (his new nickname) running and dunking. The Blazers look like a totally different, and better, team when they push the ball. They are not a jump shooting team period. Coach Mac needs to loosen the reigns just a bit, and yet still micromanage until these young guns get some experience.

3:06 PM  

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Hot-Shooting Kings Storm Blazers
posted: at 8:35 AM


The game started with a Martell Webster three pointer, and Portland would take a very quick five-point lead. But, unfortunately for the Blazers, this wasn't a sign of things to come, as the Sacramento Kings had a field day on Portland's defense for the rest of the first half. The Blazers made several mild runs in the second half, closing to within 10 points late, but the Kings held on for the easy win, 105-85.

The 85 points scored by Portland is a season-low for offensive output. This is a concern because the Kings aren't a good defensive team. They concentrate on defense a little more now under Eric Musselman, but you should be hitting you offensive averages, and then some, when you play against them.

It was the same old story in the early going of this game, and it's something that Nate McMillan is tired of seeing. When you're playing at home, making up deficits, and rallying from behind is much easier than when you're on the road. I've gotten to the point where I don't really think it's anything physically wrong with the way the Blazers are preparing for games. That has been explored. This is about agressiveness, confidence, and having a clear-cut number-two option on offense. The Blazers haven't found that yet.

We continue to see opponents trying different defenses to stop Zach Randolph. They all use slight variations of the same thing; double and triple-team him. Some teams front him more, or use a delayed double team, but it's all close to the same stuff. The Trail Blazers just aren't adjusting to the situation early enough in games. By the time they figure it out, the machine gets rolling, but it's just taking too long to figure out. They're usually down double figures by the time they hit any kind of a stride.

Zach actually had a pretty efficient game, scoring 24 points on 10 of 16 shooting. Ime Udoka also had a nice ballgame, scoring 13 points. But, that was about it.

We went into last night's game thinking the Kings were probably better than their record indicated. If that was the truth, then that really can be said about tonight's opponent- the Phoenix Suns. The Suns are just 6 and 6, and are in last place in the Pacific Division. They've had to use this time to work Amare Stoudemire back into the flow, and that always takes an adjustment period.

Tonight's game kicks off a four-game homestand for the Trail Blazers. The stand includes Phoenix, Indiana, Orlando, and Atlanta.

By the way, our television broadcast of the game tonight can be seen in a lot of places. I'm not talking about a lot of places in the Northwest, or a lot of places in this country, on League Pass. It'll be shown in France, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Iceland, Hong Kong, Mexico, and The Philippines.

I made sure Sergio Rodriguez was aware that the game would be available in Spain. We're probably going to have him address his fans in Spain at some point during the broadcast (on tape, of course). By the way, Sergio is picking up more and more on our culture here in the Northwest. When we got on the plane to fly to Sacramento Friday, he asked me "who won Civil War football game?"

 
2 Comments:
DLatta said...

Mike,

I caught the game last night on KGW. One of the "Keys to the game", was INTIMIDATION! I think when we found out Miller and Artest where playing in the game, for some reason it felt like the motivation had disappeared. Miller and Artest where more decoys than anything. But Kevin Martin! Wow! Where did he come from!

If the Kings come out shoot 68% in the half, that really tells me the Blazers couldn't find there mojo on defense. I'm a bit of a complainer, but I would of like to see Sergio Rodriguez run the point and Dan Dickau on 2. Instead of the other way around. Just because Dan is better at making buckets, not plays. Thats only if one is looking for other options.

I'm not even going to talk about the Blazers offense last night because I could of built a home with all the missed buckets. Any team will have a bad night, and the Blazers had it last night. The other thing I would of liked to see from Z-bo is to draw out the defense, when doubled hit the cutter. It could of worked for him a few times.

Blazer fans! it's still early and we have a lot to look foward too! This is a great team! Be patient!

Prepare for the THRILLA!!!!!!!!!!

11:04 AM  
kirbnuts said...

hey Mike,

I thought announcers were supposed to announce a game with a open mind and not choose favorites?. All I could hear during the first half of the Portland and Phoenix game were u and and ur partner giving excuses to why the Suns were scoring. "if you notice there, he pushes off", "and the Suns get away with another travel", "watch how he leads with the elbow". Jalen Rose went up strong for lay-up. Im sorry, but i did not hear one time u comment on how Z. Randolf leads with his off-hand almost every time he drives, or any of the times the Blazers traveled. I saw the game being called even. Portland did not come out to play and the Suns did, and your taking that away from them. This is the only place i could find where i knew you would get my message. I know you have been announcer for a while now and I would appreciate it if you try not to down the opposing team just because ur 2nd rate blazers aren't getting the job done.

7:22 PM  

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Another Gutty Effort, Another Dramatic Win
posted: 11/22/2006 at 11:17 PM


I give up. I can't figure this team out. The only sure thing at this point is that they have a heck of a lot of heart, and that they've got great leadership. Outside of that, I'm clueless. Another double-digit comeback? Left for dead by the side of the road, once again, and then brought back to life by an amazingly-resiliant, never-give-up attitude. Is this why this team is so likable, and so easy to cheer for?

Before the game on Wednesday night, my TV partner, Mike Rice, and I were in total agreement (that's newsworthy in itself). We both saw all the arrows pointing to a game that would be very difficult to win. It was a very talented New Jersey team, humbled by this young Portland team just four days earlier, coming off a loss in Seattle in which they gave up a fourth-quarter lead. A Hall-of-Fame point guard in Jason Kidd, challenging his team after the Seattle loss, and questioning his team's heart. They were sure to respond, and respond in a big way.

Early in the game on Wednesday, the Nets did respond, and surprised no one at our broadcast table with the way they started the game. They grabbed a 14-point lead, and were in total control. Meanwhile, the Blazers appeared to be having a let-down game, following the close loss on Monday to San Antonio, with a day off, and a holiday coming the next day. Distractions, in the form of family, in the stands, checking their watches, and already thinking about the next day's gatherings. Everything was happening just as if the script had been read by both teams before the game.

Then we came to the second half. We have grown accustomed to this Blazer team fighting its way back into games, so to see them make a few hard charges wasn't a surprise. They got close on many occasions. Every time they would make a run, it would be answered by Vince Carter, Kidd, or Richard Jefferson, and amazingly talented backcourt. The Blazers just couldn't get over the hump.

It wasn't until late in the game, when Travis Outlaw became unstoppable, when Zach Randolph started doing what he does best, and when Jarrett Jack started hitting clutch jumpers, did we start to realize that this Portland team had made other plans.

The Blazers didn't take their first lead of the game until the 2:51 mark of the fourth quarter. We kept saying on the broadcast that "if they could only get over the hump and actually get the lead." And, sure enough, once they had it, they weren't about to let it go.

Nate McMillan, who has injected this shorthanded team with this belief in itself, admitted after the game that "maybe we won a game that we should have lost." He wasn't happy at all times with the performance, but was thrilled with the late effort. He even shook his head several times as if even he was surprised by his team's first-month heroics here this season.

A few stats that jumped out at me, and then I'm off to enjoy Thanksgiving. The Blazers had 18 assists and only six turnovers in the game. Jarrett Jack ended the two-game series against Jason Kidd with 13 assists and 0 turnovers. And, the Blazer starters in this game went 19 for 19 at the free-throw line. You want a plug for the defense? The Blazers are now 5 and 0 when they hold teams under 100 points, and are 1 and 7 when their opponents get 100+.

New Jersey played a very good game. They'll be extremely upset by the loss, of course, but look at their numbers. They shot 54 percent, outrebounded Portland by 5, dished out 26 assists (14 by Kidd) and turned the ball over only 10 times. Numbers like that are supposed to get you a win. It didn't happen on this night.

The Blazers have already surpassed last year's November win total, with three games left to play. They've done this with Darius Miles, Raef LaFrentz, Joel Przybilla, and Brandon Roy, the pre-season pick to win Rookie of the Year, in street clothes for most of the games in this first month. Even though its hard to believe, the best is yet to come.

Happy Thanksgiving.

 
18 Comments:
Connor said...

wow is all i can say. why is no one at the games. 13000.......pathetic. oh well i have the TV on and the radio on listening to both. What a great game. Zbo jack and aldrige all great. jammal is playing better. I'm proud of the team

12:20 AM  
kenzc76 said...

Mike,
Thanks for the great article. You hit the nail on the head when you talked about this blazer team's heart. This is something that was duly missing in last year's team-the will to fight and come back against any odds to win a ballgame. The Blazers have shown this on several occasions already this year, even without Roy and Pryzbilla in the lineup. In what is considered a re-building year I think this is a great sign.
I am blown away by the strong play and maturity of Aldridge thus far. I initially questioned the Blazers moves to draft him with the No. 2 pick, but let me just say that those doubts have been erased very quickly since he has returned to the lineup. I now have the long lost feeling of not only having confidence in the players but the front office as well.......I think a .500 season would is realistic and would be a huge step in the right direction. GO.

12:41 AM  
Westside Erik said...

McMillan said after the game that "maybe we won a game that we should have lost." I disagree. I think that perhaps the Blazers won a game they were destined to win.

Each game, each quarter, each possession this team plays together means something now. And what makes that particularly special is that the players recognize and embrace it. You can actually see the will to win in their eyes. Rice said the team grew up a little tonight. "Matured" is the word I think he used. Sometimes the old coach knows what he's talking about it seems.

It's a special time to be a Blazer fan. These will be the days we look back on with the eyes of a proud parent when we hoist the NBA championship trophy once again in Portland.

And that day will come.

2:23 AM  
Travis Outlaw MegaFan said...

We need to wear those white jerseys against the Nets more often. :)
Just because of this game tonight I made my personal message on my IMing service "These Blazers are for REAL!!!" And that is true. If you don't believe it, now's the time to start believin'. This team comes into the 4th quarter and makes the push to win the game, which is unblike last season, where the 4th was where the game was lost. I think the Blazers are, and will be, a quality team. We are on now, an overcoming team, and will be, when our men come back like ROY, Przybilla, LaFrentz, man we'd have it made. Isn't Joel supposed to be back on Saturday's game against the Kings? If he is, we'll be unstoppable on the defensive end, mostly... with Joel just coming off that injury and all.

8:17 AM  
Oldfield said...

Nobody cares about the 1ºrank assists-per-48min Portland player? Sergio is 'terrific' at passing!

The Spaniard (is a Rookie!) also has the 5º rank at assist-per-turnover.

10:32 AM  
blazerfan1 said...

WOW. A great game in the 4th Quarter. The 13,000 of us were so noisy we helped force the clutch 24 second turnover. imagine what 20,999 could do. Yeah I'm a proud sixth man for my Blazers.

10:38 AM  
Ben said...

It's sad to see so few people at the game when Portlanders claim that they care about having a team with character. If we care so much about character, we need to prove it. Oh yeah, and there's also the fact that we're actually winning. But the Garden was as loud as a packed house in the 4th quarter because the people who actually show up are the ones that care. I'm really impressed with Sergio except he has to get used to the NBA 3-point line which I know can be a challenge. I know it was hard for me going from college to the slightly longer line in Europe. And Aldridge (hook 'em horns!) is an incredible player. I think these guys will continue to compete all year and .500 is not out of the question. I'm already excited for next season.

11:52 AM  
rick said...

TRUST SERGIO!!!! just look at the stats, first in nba assists per 48 minutes, that´s unbelievable for 18 years old guy what could he do with 35 minutes per game... I know it´s hard to trust a young european guy and jarrett is doing a good work too, but nobody ever tought that tony parker would run the spurs so well, Popovich couldn´t miss the evidence I hope Nate give SERGIO more minutes.

2:32 PM  
Mark said...

You're absolutely correct, Mike. I have yet to figure this team out as well. After the first couple of double digit comebacks I thought to myself "I don't mind a little luck every now and again." But now as I see this team fight back from every single double digit deficit they've had this season thus far, I no longer believe it's luck.

They've beaten some very quality teams this season and I think it's safe to say that we would have never seen that from last year's team. But I don't like to talk about the past, only the present and future, which by the way look very promising for the young Blazers squad. Let's hope that the Blazers can go into Sacramento and give them a tough game tomorrow since I think Sacramento's still a little shaken after Utah came from behind to beat them last night.

Oh and by the way, I was watching some random reality t.v. show the other day and I noticed TWO people from New York were wearing Portland Trailblazer jerseys. Looks like a lot more than just the Portland natives are starting to notice and believe in this young and exciting team. Happy Thanksgiving!!

2:41 PM  
Alex said...

that first comment was one of the most hypoctitical comments i have ever read
great blog mb!

3:42 PM  
Tim B said...

I think the results are bringing to fruition what coach Nate said to begin the year, the team needs to scrap for everything for 48 mins every night. Even with slow starts the never give up attitude is refreshing for a seasoned Blazers fan, who follows the games on the net from Australia!

A happy and fit Zach don't hurt either1

Go Team!

4:01 PM  
spanishchocolate said...

Mike,

I appreciate very much the information in this blog. Its a good way for non US people to go through NBA. We saw last weekend game in Canal + and we really did love to see Sergio again. why don't you suggest coach McMillan to get him play a little more. Unfortunately Portland is not getting very good results so maybe its time to try and leave him playing. ¡Be a good mate and give him additional minutes! Hopefully you will win ...

BY the way, do you know if Sergio has any kind of Blog where we can also write him? Maybe the answer is that he has no time. Only for basket and english.

Kisses from Spain.

7:00 AM  
Mike Barrett said...

spanishchocolate,

Thanks for the comments. I always appreciate hearing from the Sergio fans in Spain. I do pass along the comments to him, and he always loves hearing from you.
Our broadcast of Sunday's game against Phoenix will be again on Canal+ in Spain, so you'll be able to watch it. Our feed will also be shown in France, Hong Kong, Iceland, Mexico, Russia, Turkey, and Philippines.
I'll post a new blog when we get to Sacramento this evening.

MB

9:01 AM  
DK said...

Did I miss something here? Everyone is going on about the obvious and no-one has mentioned the defense of one Martell Webster. For me the play of the game was when he took the hit in the last minute of play and RJ took an offensive foul. Webster's minutes 34:46 the most ever and why was that why "D' of course and the fact that his back did not stiffen up, (he was moving better than ever before). Keep the stroke kid, time is definitely on your side.

9:43 AM  
Hap said...

It was nice to have crowd noise causing (helping actually) the 24 second shot clock violation.

It reminded me of the time when the team was playing someone (LA?) and there was a foul called..but the crowd was so loud that the players couldn't hear the whistle for a good 5-10 seconds after it was blown.

Reminded me a little bit (also) of the time when against the Lakers, we drowned out the "mony mony" song with a chant of "Beat LA".

9:49 AM  
DLatta said...

Mike,

Our team will always have me thinking, what's going to happen at the next game. unpredictable! With so many young threats. This young trailblazer team will go farther this year.

I was at the San Antonio game and when Ime Udoka got into foul trouble in the third. The players moved around so that Dan Dickau could run the point. Dan played more minutes in this game then I've seen so far this season. I think if I had to narrow down why the Trailblazers lost that game, it was because of that decision.

Dan is a talented player, but what the Trailblazers needed was a confidence booster. Someone who can run an offense. Someone who is also not easy to predict. Who you might ask? Sergio Rodriguez! I think Tony Parker would of had his hands full, just like Jason Kidd did.

This is just my opinion. I think if the Trialblazers are going through a cold spell during a game, just put in Sergio Rodriguez and watch the offense heat up. Kinda like a jump start. Not only does it take the players to win a game, but also the Coaches!

Go Trailblazers!

11:13 AM  
mrblazer said...

I agree with dlatta. Sergio comes in and gives us a completely different look. The offense seems to flow when Sergio gets the call. I've haven't understood Nate's fascination with Dan, but it seems he may be getting over it.
Don't get me wrong. I believe in Nate, but i have been confused at times with his choice of Dan over Sergio. I understand we can take our time with Sergio, but we need only take our time with him if there is a better option. Dan is not a better option.

2:07 PM  
Lee D said...

To all our Sergio fans in Spain - I appreciate your support and interest. In my opinion Sergio will get more minutes based on how he plays defense and shoots the ball. His assists and assist to turnover rations are great but he has not yet adjusted to shooting the ball as we all know he can do and defense is hard to know if he is doing the right thing just by watching. Jarrett is an excellent defender and a good distributor. Dan bring more offensive skills and more experience in the NBA. All three are important to this team's success this year and in future years. Please keep up the great support.

6:58 PM  

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Blazers Look for Sweep Against Nets
posted: 11/21/2006 at 10:59 PM


Tonight the Trail Blazers look for a repeat performance of Saturday night's complete performance against the Nets in New Jersey. The Blazers scored the first 13 points of the game, led New Jersey 25-8 after the first, and won going away, 86-68. It was a wire-to-wire win for the Blazers, who only briefly had their lead cut to 10 in the game, and controlled the Nets from the opening tip.

Normally, following a win like Saturday's, you'd rather wait a while before facing that team again. The sting of an embarassing loss sometimes fades over time, but it's very much fresh in hte minds of the Nets as they visit the Garden tonight. Add to that the fact that the Nets lost the opening game of their trip in Seattle on Monday, and they'll be a wounded, and hungry team Wednesday night.

Richard Jefferson didn't play on Saturday night, but returned to New Jersey's lineup on Monday in Seattle. He had 9 points in his 27 minutes, and helped the Nets to a five-point lead through three quarters. The Sonics then blitzed the Nets 33-17 in the fourth quarter, and cruised to the 99-87 win.

The Blazers are coming off a loss as well Monday, to the Spurs, 107-98. It was the third, and not the fourth quarter, that did the Blazers in. They were outscored by San Antonio 30 to 18 in that third quarter, and lost the 10-point lead that they held midway though the third.

Nate McMillan had his team watch the third quarter of the San Antonio game before practice on Tuesday. They watched just parts of the other three quarters, but concentrated mostly on the third.

Coach McMillan was a guest on our Trail Blazers Courtside, presented by L.A. Weight Loss, radio show, on Tuesday night. He talked about how well the team had played in the first half, and gave his opinion why they couldn't close the deal in the second half.

To hear the entire interview with McMillan, click here.

We were also joined on the show by Zach Randolph and Stephen Graham. To hear the interview with Zach, click here. To listen to Graham's segment, click here. Following the interview with Stephen, Blazers assistant coach Bill Bayno stepped in, and you'll also hear that.

Radio analyst Antonio Harvey, also had another of his "Off the Court" segments, and his guest was Dan Dickau. To hear that feature, click here.

The Blazers spent Tuesday afternoon and evening feeding some less fortunate folks at the 11th Annual Trail Blazers Harvest Dinner, at the Rose Garden. We held the radio show live from the event. Over 7,000 meals were served, as this event seems to get bigger every year. The event started in 1996, and was initiated by then-Blazers coach P.J. Carlisimo. Other teams around the league have since adopted events that are very similar. Portland Arena Management and Project Homeless Connect also played big roles in this year's event. Not only were turkey dinners served, but haircuts, medical services, pet care, educational, legal and housing resources, and job counseling, were also available. Congrats to everyone on another great event this year.

Wednesday night's game against the Nets can be seen live on FSN, beginning at 7 o'clock. It'll also be on the Blazers Radio Network, beginning with Game Day, at 6 o'clock.

 
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Spurs Rally Behind Ginobili
posted: 11/20/2006 at 10:32 PM


It was a very solid, very complete game plan for the Trail Blazers. The trouble is, in this league, the elite teams adjust. The San Antonio Spurs showed why they came into Monday night's game 5 and 0 on the road, and in the second half, out-executed the Trail Blazers and improved to 6 and 0 away from home. They came from 10 down in the third quarter to defeat the Blazers 107-98.

We often say during broadcasts that you can't afford to simply "turn it on and turn it off" during games, or just "flip a switch." Basically, that means you have to play with an all-out effort for 48 minutes. Well, the Spurs are one team that can violate the rule and still win games. They never panic, adjust well, and simply know how to pick their spots. When the door cracks open, they rush through and take advantage of every opportunity.

The Trail Blazers played their most complete half of basketball in the first 24 minutes. They were getting the ball to Zach Randolph, he was passing out of double teams, and guys were hitting shots. Portland shot 52 percent in that first half, had 10 assists on 22 made field goals, and turned the ball over 7 times. Zach had 19 points on 8 of 10 shooting, and the Blazers led by 8. That lead would grow to 10 in the third.

You knew adjustments were coming from the Spurs in the third quarter. The biggest one of the game was when they decided to put a much smaller Bruce Bowen on Randolph. They invited the entry pass to Zach, and then would double him with Tim Duncan. Knowing how easily he scored in the first half, the Blazers kept trying to go through Zach, and that was exactly what the Spurs were wanting. The offense grew stagnant, while the Spurs offense got a major dose of Manu Ginobili. They outscored the Blazers 30-18 in the third, and 29-24 in the fourth.

Ginobili, who has been struggling, got it done with hustle and scrappy play, as we've come to expect. He came into the night shooting just 37 percent, and averaging only 13 points per game. His season high had been 19 points. He nearly got that in the fourth quarter alone, when he scored 18. He ended the game with 25 points on 9 of 14 shooting. He also played a big part in disrupting everything Portland was trying to do at the offensive end.

Speaking of picking your spots, if Ginobili wasn't doing it, Duncan was. During the Spurs big 16-2 run in the third, Duncan was phenominal. He ended the game with 25 points on 10 of 16 shooting. The other member of the "big three," Tony Parker, did most of his damage early in the game, and ended with 14 points.

The Blazers were once again led by Randolph, who had 23 points and 8 rebounds, and despite being under pressure from the Spurs' swarming defense the entire second half, turned the ball over only one time in the game. Jarrett Jack had 12 points and 5 assists, and did a nice job on Parker. Juan Dixon had 17 off the bench for Portland.

Even in the loss, the Trail Blazers have a lot to build on following this game. The last several years, San Antonio has been a really bad matchup for this team. Tonight, even as short handed as they are, they showed they could go blow for blow with the Spurs, who are playing as well as anyone in the NBA right now.

Next up for Portland, is another matchup with the New Jersey Nets on Wednesday. After getting embarassed on their home court by the Blazers on Saturday, you can be sure the Nets will be bring a different effort on Wednesday. They opened their road trip with a loss at Seattle Monday night. Richard Jefferson, who didn't play Saturday, did play Monday, and will play Wednesday.

Tuesday night, it's a special edition of Trail Blazers Courtside, presented by L.A. Weight Loss. Because Thursday is Thanksgiving, we're hosting the radio show on Tuesday from the Rose Garden. It'll be at it's usual time, 6pm to 8, on KXL-AM 750 in the Portland area, and the Blazers Radio Network. You can also listen live to the show by clicking the link at the top-right of this page. You can send your e-mail questions and comments, starting now, to courtside@trailblazers.com.

 
6 Comments:
MadDogg said...

What about the calls? I know that we let them back into the game with a stagnant offense and senseless turnovers, but c'mon, those refs were horrible. I don't care how you call the game, so long as the same rules apply to both teams. The Blazers were drawing contact on strong moves to the hoop and getting no calls, but when a Spur spun into defenders and got bodied it was the shot plus one.

Tony Parker drove across the lane brushing by a defender, the ref blew the whistle, so Parker travelled taking 2 extra steps and threw up a joke of a floater. Two shots at the line and a foul on us. Meanwhile the Blazers were dinged for multiple carries and travelling calls, a few of which were questionable at best.

I know that Duncan is a former MVP, and we're a young team, but I heard multiple, extremely late whistles, for the Spurs. The refs were waiting to see if the shot fell before calling anything. SHENANEGINS!!!

9:19 AM  
ProudBFan said...

Re: MadDogg: The NBA's "stars" get calls that younger players & teams do not. It's an unspoken truth. There's not much we can do about it, except keep plugging along and develop some "star-power" of our own. We have a good start in Zach, Brandon, LaMarcus, Jarrett, and to a lesser extent Martell, Travis, and Sergio. Give these kids a chance to develop and begin generating interest from outside Blazerville, and you will start to see us getting "star" calls when our lesser "star-crossed" opponents do not.

Re: Last night's game: Pretty impressive game, all told. You had to know the Spurs were going to adjust at some point, and they did. And it helped me understand a fundamental truth about our team:

We need more offensive firepower.

This is NOT a knock on Zach. It's actually a call for the rest of the team to step up on offense. Because, as we saw last night, one really good defender (ala Bruce Bowen) and a change in defensive scheme can shut us down as long as our offense if predicated on running the ball through Zach.

Look at the Spurs. Duncan is obviously their focal-point on offense, but they have several other players who are all capable of putting their team on their shoulders and carrying them when Duncan gets shut down (which doesn't happen very often). Sometimes it's Parker. Sometimes it's Ginobili. But Barry and Finley are both still capable of putting up big numbers, and there's no better clutch 3-point shooter in the NBA than Horry (as we Blazers fans know full well).

Pritchard has referenced the Spurs as a model for where the Blazers are going a number of times in the past. I'mn beginning to see that it's more than a culture thing - the "model" includes the structure of their roster (among other things, likely) too.

Not disappointed about this loss at all. Gritty play by the Blazers all the way through. The Spurs just took advantage of the chinks in our armor (yes, and a few "star" calls that they are apt to get). If fact, this was a great "measuring stick" game for us. We have more work to do...

...particularly at the offensive end...

...by pretty much everyone not named Zach.

But, hey, that's 3 straight games without a huge 1st-quarter hole, right?

Got my rose-colored glasses on straight.

GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

11:09 AM  
mrblazer said...

Duncan was called for 0 fouls. With as many times he hacked Zach, i'm not sure how officials with that much bias can actually call themselves the best in the world. It was a joke.
I respect the Spurs and their organization, but i think they are one of the most boring teams in basketball. The personalities on their team put me to sleep, and their constant whining about every call that doesn't go their way makes them extremely hateable. I don't remember the last time i saw an entire team cry like that. I hope we tap into their secret of success, but i wouldn't want those dull sniffling sallys playing for my team.

I don't know how Dan got back into the rotation. He certainly hasn't played his way back. I'm a huge fan of Nate, but i think he was a huge contributor to the loss. His first half was great, but i couldn't figure out what he was doing in the second half. I'm sure it was over my head, but i'd be willing to bet it was also wrong.

2:38 PM  
johnnyhuck said...

How to beat the Blazers. Have them funnel their offense throught the same person all the time, every time. It's guaranteed to leave people standing around feeling out of sync, out of rhthym. But hey, it keeps that 20 and 10 rolling in. At least we'll be represented at the All Star game. I say bring in Sergio and Travis and get the old fast break out of retirement. We need legs, offensive options, defensive intensity, not a " black hole " offense and matador D.

But hey, it's not my team.

3:33 PM  
Westside Erik said...

I agree with everyone's comments about the game. Yes, we need more offense. Yes, teams know that shutting down Zach equals a win. Did we get some unfair calls? Probably not very many. Most of the calls I initially thought were wrong I realized were right after seeing the replays. Referees are really camping down on travelling and carrying violations.

The bottom line is that San Antonio is just a better team in nearly every respect. But that's true when compared to just about any team in the NBA, the exception maybe being Dallas or Utah (the way they're playing right now).

One other thing. I just have to say that as much as I love Nate, Gregg Popovich is the best coach in the NBA. So smooth, so calm, so confident. I saw him sipping water during the game. He may as well have been at a Christmas party he was so relaxed. Down by eight at halftime, they talk for a few minutes, share a few laughs, make a couple of key adjustments, and boom all of a sudden it's a twenty point swing in their favor. With barely breaking a sweat. Unbelievable.

6:48 PM  
dan tappan said...

this is a fan from way back. i was a trailblazer fan back when T.R.Dunn was a star on the team. i would like to know what he is doing in his retirement.

7:50 PM  

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Blazers Roll in Jersey
posted: 11/19/2006 at 12:04 PM


The Trail Blazers are now 4 and 1 in their home white jerseys. They were wearing them on Saturday night in New Jersey, because the Nets had requested the opportunity to unveil their new alternate red uniforms. They unveiled them, and then probably wished they hadn't. Playing in the whites, the Blazers jumped out to a 13-0 lead on the Nets, led 25 to 8 after the first quarter, and put together a wire-to-wire dominating effort for their second road win.

After the 13-0 start, the Nets never got closer than 10 points, and that was just for a brief moment in the third quarter. By the middle of the fourth, the Blazers had the lead back up to 17, and late in the game it grew to 21. They finally won the game, 86-68. It was as dominating a Blazer win as I can remember in the past two seasons. They've had nicer wins, against more impressive opponents, but haven't jumped on top, so quickly, and never even showed the slightest hint of letting down. That's what happened on Saturday.

The win couldn't have come at a better time. The Blazers had just been pummeled in Boston the night before, and were very down about the loss. They had to watch the Celtics put on a clinic, and have a lot of fun, in the second half. They came out of that game determined to turn things around.

New Jersey coach Lawrence Frank said, before the game, it was their game plan to step on the Blazers from the opening tip, and put them away early. It was a good plan, and one he felt confident his team would execute. They were coming off a very complete win at Indiana on Friday, but looked totally unprepared for the inspired Blazers.

When the Blazers arrived at their hotel in the wee small hours on Saturday morning, Jarrett Jack was so upset with the loss to Boston, and particularly his performance, he dropped his bags and went straight to Nate McMillan's room.

"He was upset with the way he had played, and just wanted some direction, and an idea of what he could to get better," McMillan told me on the plane on the way home late Saturday night. "We talked for a while, and then watched the entire Boston game over again. We stopped the DVD over and over again, and looked at just about every offensive set. It was a great chance to sit one-on-one with my point guard and pick apart everything we're doing."

It was obviously a productive meeting, even if it meant neither man got much sleep. Saturday morning, rather than hold the normal game-day shootaround, the Blazers met in a meeting room at the hotel for three hours. The bus, on the way to game, was very quiet, and very intense. This was a young, shorthanded team responding to a disappointing situation. They weren't about to be embarrassed again.

Perhaps the most impressive stat in the game against the Nets was the fact that Portland had 22 assists on 31 made field goals, including 16 assists in the first half, when the major damage was done. That shows ball movement, obviously, and it shows balance. When Zach Randolph is doing everything on his own, the assist numbers are normally very low. On this night, the Blazers had Zach, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Jamaal Magloire to go to down low. Add to that the deep threats of Ime Udoka, Jarrett Jack, and Juan Dixon, and the New Jersey defense was off balance.

Zach ended with 20 points and 16 rebounds. Aldridge, who's getting better with every game, had 12 points on 5 of 9 shooting. Magloire looked as good as he has so far for this team, and had 9 points on 4 of 5 shooting, and also grabbed 5 rebounds in just 14 minutes.

The Blazers end the road trip 1 and 3, and with a bit of a refreshed attitude. The mood was certainly lighter on the plane on the way home. The coaches were still buried in their DVD players watching tape of the New Jersey game, and preparing for the San Antonio Spurs, but everyone was pleased.

We didn't arrive in Portland until about 3:30 am, and Nate gave the team Sunday off. They'll hold their shootaround on Monday, and will get set to host the Spurs on Monday night (7pm FSN).

 
8 Comments:
Locked on Sports said...

Mike --
Congrats on the newborn. Hope all is well in Blazers land. It is amazing how much of this league is based on belief and how much is bounce back or bounce flat from good or bad performances.

12:53 PM  
Blaze Dog said...

Mike,
In your opinion is Aldrige for real or is this the honeymoon?

1:29 PM  
Mike said...

It's nice to see this team shut down an opponent on the road, after a disappointing loss.

2:14 PM  
Briman said...

Way to go guys! I didn't even realize they were wearing the white jerseys, but that is pretty sweet that New Jersey would just give us a win like that.. hahaha.

... Who are the captains?

4:46 PM  
Westside Erik said...

Nate had this to say after the loss at Boston:

"We are giving up points way too easy and then you start searching for people that can help you, and the only people that can help you are yourselves."

I think that statement pretty much sums up what a great coach Nate McMillan is. Since Brandon has been out the rest of the team has been looking to Zach for all of the offense. With Martell struggling and JJ focusing on distributing the ball it's become a nightly guessing game on who will score points and help to take the pressure off Z-Bo.

New Jersey was a gift, truth be told. They just played a horrible game. We'll see how well Nate's three hour
meeting sticks tomorrow night against the Spurs.

Re: Brandon Roy's orthopedic boot. I have a couple of questions. Number one, what exactly is it, and number two, how is a wearing a orthopedic boot supposed to correct an irregular talus bone in a couple of weeks? I'm no podiatrist, but I'm looking at a player who could no longer play basketball because of the pain in his heel and is now wearing a special boot that may or may not completely alleviate the problem. How this issue could have been overlooked or missed in a physical I can understand but how he played 4 years at Washington without any issues and six months out of college can no longer compete because the pain is so intense I don't. He's gonna need surgery, I'm telling you. I just wish the team would recognize and admit to it and not waste any more time because we need him back. It's a bummer but these things happen.

12:00 AM  
Happy Camper said...

Jack, I stand corrected. Jack has been looking much better on the offensive end as a point guard. He has been solid the whole year as a player but didn't seem to be creating for his team mates until this last couple of games. With Jacks obvious advantage on the defensive end combined with his experience (2 yrs experience is alot on this team lol)if he can keep playing like this he is without question the starting point gaurd in this group of guys. Can't wait till BRoy comes back and wouldn't be surprised to see Roy and Aldridge hoisting the rookie of the year trophy together as co-winners! (it is possible, remember Sabonis and Damon?)

7:23 AM  
DragonHeart11 said...

Hey Mike,

Congrats on the new addition and boy are you in trouble hee hee.
So,everyone still thinks that they won't win more than 25 games?

I believe they have that and more as long as Mac stays true to the players.Mac is the truth with his style of coaching,but laying it on the line with heart not being afraid to get close and show emotion with your players is something I hope he will give these kids before christmas.without it these kids will be like the other team,looking toward each other for it and finding them selves in trouble.Money doesn't replace love and closeness,it numbs it,but can't replace it.

10:21 AM  
ProudBFan said...

Great to see the team bounce back like that. They had every right to be down after getting plastered by the Celtics the way they did. But they turned it around, put the hammer to the Nets early, and never let up. So now we know this team can rebound from a huge, disappointing loss as easily as they can dig themselves out of a large deficit. And that is a VERY encouraging sign.

Big game tonight vs. the Spurs. This team is full of surprises, but can they do it again tonight vs. the 8-2 odds-on Championship favorites? Can't wait to find out!

Two more items:

1. When is Joel available for action again? And will Nate push him right into the starting lineup, or will he continue to go with LaMarcus?

2. Brandon and the doctors really should quit messing around with his heel and just do the surgery. Had they done the surgery when the pain first became an issue, Brandon would already be well down the road to recovery.

GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

1:55 PM  

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Trip Wraps Up in Jersey
posted: 11/18/2006 at 9:37 AM


Hey, how you doin? In the shadow of the "Bing," (which is very close to Continental Airlines Arena) the Trail Blazers wrap their 4-game road trip against the New Jersey Nets. The team had a "sit down" this morning and perhaps asked for help in getting a victory in this game.

The Trail Blazers suffered through a rough night in Boston on Friday night. The Celtics used a swarming defense to slow Zach Randolph early, and were incredible from long range, as they beat the Blazers 118-90.

You can't blame a slow start on this loss. The Blazers and Celtics were tied at 20 after the first quarter, and the Blazers trailed by only seven points at halftime. But, in the second half Boston's offense came alive, and they buried the Blazers with three pointers. The Celtics ended the game 12 for 20 from behind the three-point line, and in the last two games are now 20 for 32 from behind the line. That's a staggering number, and it was way too much for the Blazers to overcome.

Paul Pierce led the way, as expected, with 29 points, but five other Celtics also hit from deep in the game. Wally Szczerbiak ended with 19, and was 3 for 6 on his three-point attempts. Delonte West was 2 for 2, and Gerald Green was 2 for 3. The Celtics, as a team, shot 51 percent for the game.

Sebastian Telfair, who badly wanted to show the Trail Blazers they made a mistake in trading him on draft day, had 15 points, 7 assists, and just 1 turnover. If Boston coach Doc Rivers was concerned that perhaps Telfair would try and do too much against his former team, it never happened. Telfair made the comment before the game, that it's easy for him to look like a great point guard when he has dead-eye shooters to constantly feed in the Celtics offense. Telfair not only spread the ball around, but was also efficient with his own offense, going 6 for 10, and 1 for 1 from behind the three-point line.

Zach Randolph again led the Blazers with 23 points and 12 rebounds, but again was pounded down low by as many as three players on every offensive possession. We've seen several different defensive game plans against Zach on this trip, and on this night, the Celtics' strategy was to simply try and keep the ball from ever getting inside. Ryan Gomes was physical with Zach, and tried to keep him out of the low block. When the ball did make it inside, Randolph was immediately doubled, and at times tripled.

Another team that is playing well, New Jersey, will get a shot at doing the same thing on Saturday night. Vince Carter is off to a tremendous start this season, and will cause Portland defensive matchup troubles.

It's also another back-to-back situation for the Blazers, as they arrived in Newark late on Friday night. Rather than hold a shootaround on Saturday morning, the team held a long meeting at the hotel in Short Hills, New Jersey.

A couple of injury updates for you. Joel Przybilla had a minor surgery on Friday afternoon, as a result of the injury he sustained at Golden State. Joel should be returning to practice next week, but will likely miss at least three or four more games.

Brandon Roy will continue wearing a boot for another two or three weeks. The team was hoping to get him back in time for the 6-game road trip through the east, which begins on December 5th at Detroit. That could still happen, but is probably a little optimistic at this point. It's a tough and frustrating situation for Roy, who had gotten off to such a great start in his rookie season. Surgery isn't out of the question, but at this point doctors are hoping rest will solve the problem.

The Blazers will arrive back in Portland early on Sunday morning, following a cross-country flight home. They'll practice at some point on Sunday, and then will get set to take on the San Antonio Spurs on Monday.

 
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One Degree from Bacon
posted: 11/17/2006 at 9:15 AM


Breaking News from Boston. I am now one degree from Kevin Bacon. So, if you're standing around the office day, tweaking your fantasy basketball roster, and happen to get caught up in a "six degrees game," you can toss out my name. Actually, to be fair, Brian Wheeler should probably be used. He was hanging with Bacon, and his wife (Bacon's not Wheels'), Kyra Sedgwick, in our hotel lobby in Boston last night. Not to be outdone, John Lukrofka, who is on our traveling TV crew, worked out with Bacon and Sedgwick this morning in the hotel's weight room. So, Lukrofka is also claiming now to be in Bacon's posse. Lukrofka is a jock sniffer, so I'm not sure if he actually hung with the pair, or if he was just walking by and saw them. I need to see some photo evidence of this "friendship."

There's a movie set just outside the hotel on a side street. Evidently Sedgwick is starring in the movie and Bacon is just here hanging out. We're going to try and get him to come to the game tonight. Maybe I can get him to fill in for Rice for a quarter. I was a little more impressed by the fact that Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney was having a cup of coffee in the lobby this morning.

Speaking of movies, we had a little time last night and caught Will Ferrell's new film Stranger Than Fiction. Wheels and team strength coach Bobby Medina walked out, for some reason. I think they were expecting Old School. It's certainly not that. I stayed, along with Dan Dickau, Ime Udoka, Mike Rice, and TV producer Scott Zachry. I liked the movie, and so did Rice and Zachry, but Ime and Dan didn't. There you go.

There's a basketball game as well tonight, as you may know. The Trail Blazers and Celtics at the TD Banknorth Garden (I think that's what they're calling it now).

The biggest news we've talked about, is that fact that Nate McMillan is changing the starting lineup. LaMarcus Aldridge will start in place of Jamaal Magloire, and we've also found out Juan Dixon will be starting at the shooting-guard spot.

Obviously, this is being done to give the team a little more offense early in the game, and take some pressure off Zach Randolph. Dixon has been playing well off the bench, and with Martell still with a sore back, Dixon is probably the best outside-shooting threat the team has right now. My biggest concern is how the Blazers will match up defensively with the Celtics. They start Paul Pierce at the two, and Wally Szczerbiak at the three. Pierce is 6-6, and rebounds, and Wally is 6-7. I'm assuming Dixon will take Sebastian Telfair, and Jarrett Jack will end up with Pierce or Wally. Udoka could get the matchup on Pierce, but that would leave Jack on Wally. You see why that's a concern.

One match up that could be intriguing, is the potential Sergio Rodriguez / Telfair duel. Most likely, Sergio will be matched up more with the back-up point guard for Boston, Rajon Rondo, the rookie out of Kentucky. Rondo has been playing as much, if not more, than Telfair lately.

Boston looked very impressive on Wednesday, and it's difficult to tell what team we'll see tonight. They beat the Pacers 114-86, but it was just their second win. They are 2 and 6 heading into this game. Keep in mind, this will be their seventh home game, and have played just two road games. That has fans here concerned, and there's been talk that the win over Indiana perhaps saved Doc Rivers' job. I don't think that's the case, but he is feeling the heat after this slow start. Danny Ainge is also feeling some, and has been criticized in the local media.

Last week, as you recall, Udoka got a nice piece done on him in Sports Illustrated. Yesterday, after practice, SI's Ian Thomsen was in the lobby of the hotel interviewing Zach, and then after that had a long sit down with coach McMillan. So, another story is on the way. Also, last night during ESPN's broadcast of the Texas-Michigan State game, they had LaMarcus on the phone from his hotel room during the play-by-play. He was talking about the Longhorns, and his adjustment to the NBA. Nice to see this kind of national press interested in this Blazer team.

Trail Blazers Courtside, presented by L.A. Weight Loss, was on the radio last night. To hear the interview with Nate McMillan, click here. Also, ESPN's Chris Sheridan was on the program, and had some very interesting things to say. Click here to hear that interview. Also, Antonio Harvey had his feature this week on LaMarcus Aldridge. Click here to listen to that.

Talk to you on TV tonight (4:30 FSN).

 
6 Comments:
crossbones2005 said...

Mike, when is Joel going to come back? It seems like he's been out for two weeks! Is his injury getting any better?

12:10 PM  
portland trailblazers said...

What is the word on Brandon Roy? How long until he's on the court again. Also, where have Jacks minutes gone? Is it because of score or is he going to be a platoon guy with Sergio taking half the minutes?

1:45 PM  
KyleRW said...

I'm SO excited for Aldridge to start -- and all the comments about similarities to 'Sheed are right on, his arms go practically down to his ankles, he has that 'keep the ball high' turn around jump shot and quickness. He might not be able to shoot three's like 'Sheed, but in any case he has the potential to dominate.

1:47 PM  
Briman said...

Can someone please tell me who the Blazers Captains are? Email me at phunkroller@yahoo.com please.

Go Blazers!

2:26 PM  
BigBlazers said...

Yeah, how is Joel? Has the swelling come down? We need that big man in the middle.....lol

3:26 PM  
Hap said...

MB, whats the time table for Brandon if he decides to opt for the surgery?

9:54 PM  

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Aldridge to Start Friday
posted: 11/16/2006 at 8:51 AM


Greetings from Boston. Last night, for the third time in three days, we have flown east. The good news is, we're about as far east as we can be and still be in the United States. It's a day without a game for the Trail Blazers today. I hesitate to say "off day" because they practiced this afternoon. It wasn't be a long, grueling practice, however, because this day falls between two sets of back-to-back games.

One update from practice. Nate McMillan has already said that he plans to start LaMarcus Aldridge Friday night when the Trail Blazers take on the Celtics (4:30 FSN). It'll be the first NBA start for Aldridge, and his play as of late has warranted it. Nate is hoping this will add some quickness and versatility to the starting unit, and that Aldridge's ability to score, inside and outside, will take some pressure off Zach Randolph. I'll have more later on this.

Last night, was another big effort by Zach, as he went for 26 points and 11 rebounds, but on this night didn't have enough help, as the Trail Blazers fell to the Cavaliers 100 to 87. It wasn't the first quarter that was the problem this time for Portland. They didn't fly out of the locker room, but were down only six points after the first, and trailed by 8 at halftime. By the end of the third, they trailed by 18.

The most ominous sign at the end of the first quarter, was the stat line for LeBron James. He was 0-0 for 0 points in the first, and his team had the lead. James didn't even look to score, and I can't remember him even squaring up to the basket in a threatening way. He was simply trying to set up his teammates, and just appeared to be going half speed. Drew Gooden, who's never seen a shot he doesn't like, did most of the scoring for the Cavs in the early going.

In the latter half of the third quarter, LeBron finally got it up to full speed, and took over the game. This isn't an original thought, I realize, but he is the most explosive, and most dominant player in basketball. He'll be put up against Michael Jordan for as long as he plays, of course. I don't think there's any question that he's got as much talent, if not more, than MJ. He's bigger than Jordan, is just as quick, and finishes just as impressively. The only thing that's missing at this point, is that 48-minute fire that roared inside Jordan. Jordan's biggest asset was his competitive spirit. LeBron just doesn't appear to have that yet. He's got it, just not like Jordan had. James will disappear during stretches of games, especially defensively. James will probably never be the defensive player Jordan was, but is more capable. Everyone has their opinion on this, and it's a tough thing to debate.

For the Trail Blazers, it was Randolph leading the way once again. Zach had 26 points and 11 rebounds, but could have exceeded his scoring average if he'd been decent from the free-throw line. He's been so great at the line lately, but against Cleveland he was just 12 for 20. The Blazers, as a team, missed 12 free throws. They lost by 13, so that was disappointing. As we mentioned on the TV broadcast, Zach just ran out of gas. That was understandable. He takes a beating during games, and just can't be expected to carry this team for 48 minutes in every game. There just aren't enough offensive options at this point.

Here's a quote from LeBron James, which ran in a newspaper in Cleveland today. "Zach is tough. We tried to double him, but he was still getting the ball. Right now he's playing like an all-star." Impressive stuff from the Chosen One.

On the flight to Boston, the players appeared as down as I have seen them. Nate McMillan lit
into them good at halftime, and after the game. They'll rebound, and will be ready to play the Celtics on Friday night, but they were very disappointed following this loss. It's a very healthy thing that they've got this attitude, and you'd rather see this than apathy. They'll practice today, and will get to the drawing board. They still have a chance to have a good trip, and that will be the message going into these final two games.

Tonight on the radio (KXL-AM 750 in the Portland area) it's Trail Blazers Courtside, presented by L.A. Weight Loss. Jay Allen and Bob Akamian will host the show from Portland, but we'll be joining the program from Boston. It's from 6pm to 8.

 
7 Comments:
ProudBFan said...

Thanks for the update, Mike.

Sorry to see the boyz lose a tough one in Cleveland, but the play of both LaMarcus and Sergio are very encouraging. I expect moving LaMarcus into the starting lineup will help with rebounding quite a bit. Which, in turn, will help with 2nd chance points (giving us more, giving opponents fewer). You know, when I first heard that we were getting Jamaal, my first thought was that he was just what we needed after being such a poor rebounding team last season. Doesnt seem that way right now, though. I can imagine Joel is chomping at the bit to get back on the court and help his team-mates out. Until then, I look forward to seeing more of LaMarcus!

Also VERY good to see Sergio moving up in the PG rotation. The whole offense visibly changes when he is in there. I am a HUGE Jarrett Jack fan, and I feel he is the best starting option for the Blazers, but these last two games have really opened my eyes to what a special player Sergio is & can be. Glad to have him here to push Jack a bit and to give us a spark and a different look when needed. BTW, just learned from some of our newfound Spanish Blazers Bretheren that Sergio`s Spanish nickname is El Chacho (The Kid).

Zach is having a GREAT season so far, but the rest of the team needs to step up. Martell, Travis, and Ime in particular need to contribute a little more on a more consistent basis. This will come in time.

Here`s to wins in Boston and New Jersey, a 2-2 split on this road-trip, LaMarcus starting, and Joel getting back into it for the next home-stand!

GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

4:29 PM  
Hap said...

ok, ive looked around. I almost emailed someone to ask...but what is your daughters name?

did you go with Broomhilda like I suggested?

7:18 PM  
Play Beautifully said...

Something about Sergio Rodriguez before playing for the trail blazers.

http://www.hoopshype.com/articles/rodriguez_peinado.htm

8:48 PM  
Play Beautifully said...

Watch his video, mike!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JKiz-xs5YM

9:08 PM  
mrblazer said...

Mike, congratulations to you again on the newest addition to your family, Gabrielle.

Aldridge has no ego and just plays hard while he's in there letting the game come to him. As i've said in other comments, this makes him the perfect compliment to Zebo. Length is always a beautiful thing, but with the way the perimeter is now being officiated, it's just that much more important.
I know a lot of people wanted Morrison, but i'm glad we went with Aldridge. There is no question we're a better team with him on the floor, and this is only the tip of the iceberg. If he can stay healthy, the sky is the limit.

I think we're going to put it to Boston, Friday. It's too bad Roy won't be there to show Bassy why he's in a Celtic uniform, this year. These past few games have given us a preview to what we can expect when he's out of the lineup. Still, i expect Boston to make us look pretty good.

PS Sergio is showing everyone he belongs on the floor in the NBA......not the NBDL.

11:21 PM  
spanishchocolate said...

Kises to everybody from Spain. It's glad to learn that Sergio is having minutes and that people is enjoying his play. He is really a nice guy. He is still very young and needs all the help so he can adapt himself to american life.. Give him love, protection and support ant you will get his magic play. Chacho, we are very happy to read in Blazer's page and in The Oregonian about you. I'm sure that you know the key is to work hard day and night. Continue with your effort and you vill obtain you objective. I'm writing in English so that you can also improve the language ja ja ja. Take care and enjoy yourself

5:32 AM  
Happy Camper said...

Start Sergio too (untill roy gets back). Jack can play the 2.

7:10 AM  

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Trip Starts in Minneapolis
posted: 11/13/2006 at 8:15 PM


The Trail Blazers, still shorthanded, begin a very tough 4-game road trip on Tuesday night at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The Blazers are coming off their loss to Dallas on Sunday, and will be tested over the next five days. The trip gives them four games in five nights, and young teams, in particular, the road is a tough place to get wins. You simply can't get away with mistakes and expect to live to tell about it.

We left Portland early on Monday morning, and made the three-hour flight to Minnesota, where it's right around freezing. No suprise. In fact, people here don't even really wear coats until it gets in the teens. I still recall a trip here two seasons ago when the high temperature hit -13 in our two-day stay. Not that way this time, but a little chilly.

The Timberwolves have been very chilly since their 2 and 0 start. They beat Sacramento in their opener, and then won at Denver. Then, they blew that 16-point lead at the Rose Garden, and that has seemed to send them into a little bit of a tailspin. Minnesota returned from their 4-game road trip, and got to face Orlando to kick off two straight at home. The Magic rolled the Wolves at Target. That leads us to Tuesday night.

This game will have some pretty good storylines. The Timberwolves have gone three-straight games without a lead of any kind. In fact, the last time they had a lead in a game, was with 6.3 seconds left at the Rose Garden. Juan Dixon hit a three pointer in the corner, with 6.2 left, and of course, Portland won the game. Minnesota fans were trying to believe this team was much better off than last year's, and through two games, they had some fans jumping on the bandwagon. But, after four straight losses, they're taking some heat. With the Portland loss fresh in their minds, they won't have to search far for motivation.

We've talked so much in recent days about the Trail Blazers getting off to slow starts in games. Well, the Timberwolves know something about that as well, and have trailed by an average of 6.3 points after the opening quarter of the last three. That's actually good, considering what Portland has done in the last two. The Blazers trailed by 25 after one against the Hornets, and then fell behind Dallas on Sunday by 11 after the first quarter.

Minnesota has talked about changing the starting lineup, to try and come out with a little more fire. Nate McMillan appears to be considering the same thing for his Blazers. Most likely, we won't see a change for Tuesday's game, but it's possible. If there is a switch, it could perhaps be LaMarcus Aldridge starting at center in place of Jamaal Magloire. Not only would that make the Blazers so much quicker and more athletic on the front line, but it would allow Magloire to come off the bench and play either the four or five spot.

Aldridge showed how quickly he can have an impact on a game on Sunday night against Dallas. He played 19 minutes, and had 10 points and 8 rebounds, including 6 offesive rebounds. He was active, energetic, and with his incredible length, played good defense on Dirk Nowitski. Is he ready to guard Kevin Garnett? We'll likely see on Tuesday. With Aldridge playing, it will also allow Travis Outlaw to play a little more at the small forward position. He's been playing power forward, and doing a good job, but the Blazers would rather have him at the three.

Aldridge is just happy to be playing. He hated missing training camp, due to his recovery from shoulder surgery, and said it killed him to watch the first few games in a suit on the end of the bench. Now, the team needs him, and he appears to be ready to be thrown into the fire. That will be on this trip. Even if he doesn't start against the Timberwolves, he will play more than 19 minutes. LaMarcus was all smiles when he boarded the team plane on Monday morning, and slapped a few fives on his way to his seat in the back of the plane. He's obviously thrilled to be getting his first NBA action.

Tuesday night's game will be televised on FSN, beginning at 5 o'clock Pacific Time. The game will also be on the Trail Blazers Radio Network, with Brian Wheeler and Antonio Harvey, beginning at 4 o'clock with Game Day. Following the game, we'll hop on the plane and fly to Cleveland, where Wednesday night the Blazers take on LeBron and the Cavs. Our only day off on this trip will come in Boston on Thursday.

 
13 Comments:
Naterocks4u said...

what is the status of Brandon Roy? last time i heard that ROY needs to have his heel bone shaved...

as for predictions, i would say 2-2 at the least. 3-1 at the most, 4-0 as nearly impossible, one or two comeback wins...

Minny: 95-92 Blazers W (5-3)
Cavs: 104-93 Blazers W (6-3)
Boston: 92-87 Blazers W (7-3)
Nets: 107-89 Blazers L (7-4)

modest preditions...very unsure about the Cavs game since that the cavs lost to the bobcats...and Atlantla. and as for the nets...im guessing that the nets would be roaring back at the already tired blazers team (and shorthanded). Blazers should be able to beat Boston on a one day rest.

i should say, i have some nice predictions...anyone willing to refute it?

10:36 PM  
bradley. said...

I came down for the two games this weekend and I was shocked at how effective LaMarcus Aldridge was in the fourth quarter of that game against Dallas - in all facets of the game. On offense with the pretty jumper, cleaning up the boards and on defense helping Travis shut down Dirk (if only we'd had LaMarcus defend him in the first quarter). It was great.

From the games I've attended - two preseason games and four regular season games in both Seattle and Portland - there are so many things to be excited about. Everything about this organization seems to be right on track - from the owner, to the front office personnel, to the coaching staff, the players and, last but certainly not least, the broadcasters. And we don't even have Brandon, Joel or Raef up to speed... Yet.

P.S. Is it wrong to hope we've seen the last of Darius Miles in a Trailblazers jersey? I can't even look at him after last season.

11:51 PM  
noiseordinance said...

I'm very excited about the upcoming games this year. The new lineup has proven to be a breath of fresh air for Oregon's only pro team. The energy has been off the hook! We may be 4-3 right now but every game has been awesome and we're proud to have you.

Keep it up guys!

12:47 AM  
Happy Camper said...

Mike, I hope Nate starts Aldridge. Miny doesn’t have a big enough center that mags would produce a huge match up advantage against and with Lamarcus’s first performance showing the energy and quickness that would probably help Portland get away from those slow starts I think it would be a great choice. It’s not like Nate can’t pull him out if it’s not working and we can’t do much worse than being down 25 and 11 in the first quarters. Travis has also been working his butt off lately, maybe give him another go at the 3 and put Ime at the 2? Once Brandon gets back that’s where a lot of the offensive stability will come from anyways. Also Jack has been working great; even Kerr has noted that Jack is demonstrating why Blake was expendable. –just a thought :)

7:23 AM  
grizzo said...

Man, my heart goes out to Joel Przybilla. Hopefully by the time the team returns he'll be feeling better...

9:58 AM  
ProudBFan said...

We and the team have been feeling good about our successes so far this season, and with good reason. It is both exciting and galvanizing to see a team hustle, scrap, and grit their way to comeback wins. But this road trip looks to be be a tougher test for this young team than any stretch they've faced together so far. Avoiding the early big hole is an absolute MUST. If this team can do that, their confidence will explode all over the court and they will be competitive.

I think the key is tonight's game in Minnesota. If they lose this one (getting blown out would be a worst-case scenario) it will be difficult for them to recover and perform well vs. Cleveland (a very good team) the next night. You see where I'm going... the losses could snowball on top of each other.

So here's to avoiding the huge early hole and competing hard for a win tonight! Could signal great things to come from the rest of the trip!

GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

12:13 PM  
ltg said...

Hey Mike, Hey Blazer fans. Just wanted to say How proud I am of the team so far. I think we will stuff T'wolves tonight. How Ironic and interesting that Miles is done for the season..lol...in other words Miles is done as a blazer.

Go get them tonight team. Mike, congrats on your new arrival! What are your thoughts on this upcoming road trip...is this where we show the league..our previous games were not flukes?

-L.T.G

4:17 PM  
kikego said...

hi mike, i'm a spanish fan following the blazers and i see how coach mc millan ignores the talent of pg sergio rodriguez...he's a rookie who requires minutes to show his potential. He must have some kind of problem with the language or maybe it's just that his game doesn't fit in coach's plans. He is the type of player who changes the rythm of the game. In his 14 minutes of game played his season he has delivered 9 assists an 4 points...i think he deserves credit and trust.

3:50 AM  
Sergio Gutierrez said...

Bravo Sergio!!! To have if McMillan gives but minutes you that you you deserve it

5:06 AM  
ProudBFan said...

Hi Mike, some comments from last night's game vs. the Timberwolves.

ANOTHER ridiculously slow start: What is it going to take for this team (young, and supposedly full of energy) to compete hard right out of the blocks? Watching the past few games, it looks like our slow starts primarily come from 2 areas:

1) 2nd chance points (our opponents get them, we do not) which points strongly to rebounding (more specifically, lack thereof).

2) Opponents focusing defense on Zach.

#1 can be solved by adding a strong rebounding Center to the starting rotation. Until Joel returns, it looks like Lamarcus is our best bet here. Will Nate have the cojones to make the change tonight vs. Cleveland?

#2 can be solved by the rest of the starting lineup posing more serious scoring threats to pull some of the defense away from Zach. Perhaps more distribution from the point? Other than that, this seems to be a time/experience thing.

Point Guards: I started listening to the game on my way home from work last night (Wheels is still the best in the biz!), coming into it mid-way through the 2nd quarter. And it only took me 2 minutes to realize Dickau was completely stinking it up out there. Still don't understand why Nate left him in for so long... Anyway, what a GREAT first game for Sergio!!! 8 assists in 12 minutes??? That's CRAZY good! IMO, Sergio should be the first PG off the bench in relief of Jack.

One more thing: It's been reported that the Minnesota game announcers (carried by NBA League Pass) talked about the Blazers and Warriors talking trade. Something like Jamaal+Juan for Diogu+Ellis+Foyle. Seems to work under the current CBA. Can you comment on this?

Not upset about the loss. There will be many more this season. But very concerned about the slow starts.

GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

8:56 AM  
Happy Camper said...

How do the blazers get out of the block better? Here's my thought though most i'm sure will question my IQ for it. Nate should start 5-1, Aldridge, Zach, Ime, Dixon, and Sergio. They will have problems defesively, but they shouldn't have a problem scoring. Sugguesting starting Sergio over Jack is not a quality or experience issue at all, but one of play characteristics. Without Roy in the starting line up I havn't seen anyone else on the team capable of creating oppertunities for their team mates other than Sergio. Zach,Dixon, and Roy can all create shots for themselves but of those three only Roy seems to create oppertunities for his teamates. Any other opertunity seems like it comes more from the offensive scheme than player creativity. Untill they get more crisp in executing the offense and allowing it to give them good scoring opertunities i think they should have someone on the floor who can take a broken play and still be able to disrupt the oponents defence and force them to react to us. Roy and Sergio from what i've seen are the ones who can do that so untill Roy comes back I say play Sergio alot more. Jack has certainly played good enough to start at the 2 to alow Sergio to play point, but untill he gets a little more consistant with his jumper i'd rather see Dixon there who is a proven shooting threat.

10:39 AM  
orbeavhawk said...

It's a BLESSING in disguise that Darius Miles is OUT for the entire year = = = it is worth ALL that money just to keep him away from players that want to "earn their salary" and PLAY the Game like they are being paid to. IF they could only operate on his HEAD instead of his knee - then we/he might have something worth keeping!

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOBlazers!!!!!!!!!!!!!

10:57 AM  
MN Blazer Fan said...

I was at the Target Center for the game last night. The first quarter was ugly. Ugly on a stick.

Losses will happen with a young team, as said above; it's not a concern. If I were part of the Blazer coaching staff, I would drill the guards on better-timed entry passes to Zach down on the blocks. IMO, the length of time dribbling the ball as Zach approaches/gets to/waits at the post position killed our rhythm in the first quarter.

Much to his credit, Zach was in one dogfight after another near the basket during the first quarter, establishing good position. However, on many occasions he'd get there, jostle, hold out a hand, and only then would the guard look to make the pass (all of 'em, not only JJ). That gave the defense time to see the play develop, be patient, and double team only when needed. When the defense can do that, it puts big pressure on Zach to pass effectively out of the trap; he's getting better, I agree, but it's not his forte yet either.

The Dickau inbounds play was awful, no doubt about it. However, to end the second quarter they basically did it again, just not in such dramatic fashion. The T'Wolves shot the ball with a few seconds left; with 3 or 4 Blazers under the hoop they still managed to get out of Mark Madsen's way, who rebounded and shot again while in the air to beat the clock.

When you look at how the Blazers pushed that lead down to 9 in the fourth, think about if it would have been only 5. Toss in a missed dunk by Outlaw and another by Graham, and it's 1 point. If LaMarcus cans only one of the two FTs toward the end, it's tied. Turnovers and free throws really do make the difference in most games.

Being there adds another layer to that string of "ifs" I just wrote above. People watching on TV couldn't feel it, but after being very relaxed until that point, the Target Center was just beginning to collectively hold its breath. The tension was real, and that was with a 9 point lead! Even if just the two end-of-quarter screwups were removed, the tension would have been a lot thicker. Players can feel that, and a couple nice bounces by the ball on the rim for the Wolves could easily have gone our way with a bigger case of jitters.

Ah well. I was still encouraged by several things, it's early in the season, and they're still playing .500 ball after the loss. Go Blazers, rip the cap off that basket before the first quarter in Cleveland tonight!

11:10 AM  

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Comeback Falls Short
posted: 11/12/2006 at 10:02 PM


Early in the season we have seen this Trail Blazer team come back from as many as 12 down (against Seattle), 16 down (against Minnesota), and 27 down (Friday against the Hornets), and Sunday night tried to add another impressive rally to that list. They did come all the way back from 15 down against the Dallas Mavericks, and even took a brief lead in the second half, but this time couldn't close the deal. The Blazers lost their first home game of the season, 103-96.

On the bright side of things, this team obviously has a lot of heart, and never gives up on a game. On the realistic side, they can't keep digging themselves huge holes to begin games. Sunday night the Mavericks outscored Portland 24-13 in the first quarter, and for much of the quarter, it was very similar to what New Orleans/Oklahoma City did to the Blazers on Friday. Having to find motivation from behing behind is an issue, and the Blazers will spend Monday looking for answers.

While one of Portland's prized rookies sat on the bench in street clothes on Sunday night, another gave us a glimpse of what we have been missing, and what is likely to come from him. Brandon Roy didn't play, and probably won't play again for at least a week when his left heel is evaluated by team doctors again. LaMarcus Aldridge, however, saw his first NBA action, and was very impressive. Roy has been labled the most NBA-ready rookie, but Aldridge showed that he can immediately contribute as well.

Aldridge played 19 minutes, and in that time had 10 points, and 8 rebounds. Six of his eight rebounds were offensive. He also showed how effective he can be with his length at the defensive end, and played very well against Dirk Nowitski. Expect to see Aldridge used on Kevin Garnett on Tuesday night.

Nate McMillan said after the game he's looking at everything, as far as what it will take to get this team out of the blocks quicker. He says he doesn't like the combination of Zach Randolph and Jamaal Magloire on the starting front line, and that it makes the team very slow and deliberate. This is where Joel Przybilla is missed. He compliments Zach very well. Nate didn't go as far as saying he would definitely change the starting lineup Tuesday. Aldridge probably isn't ready for that, but I don't think it'll take him long.

Without Roy, this road trip will be very tough. The Blazers have shown plenty of hustle and desire, and the ability to overcome great obsticles. But, now can they carry that over to a four-games-in-five-nights situation? It's a big test, to be sure.

We fly out Monday morning for Minneapolis, and Tuesday take on the Timberwolves. Minnesota will be out for a little revenge after blowing a 16-point lead to the Blazers in Portland last week. Wednesday it's LeBron and the Cavaliers in Cleveland. Friday the Blazers play in Boston, and Saturday wrap up the trip in New Jersey against the Nets.

Thanks to all of you for all the kind words and congratulations on the birth of our daughter. It meant a lot. Gabrielle was born on Friday, and is doing very well. Mom and baby come home tomorrow. I'll miss that, but they have plenty of help. I'll blog again from Minneapolis Monday night (after I call home, of course).

 
9 Comments:
Westside Erik said...

I feel funny saying this but it's nice to see that Aldridge can actually play. I know that must sound weird but I never saw him play in college and with so much attention on Roy you kind of forget that he went second overall and why he did. In my Blazer fantasy I have him and Brandon in a tight 1-2 race for Rookie of the Year honors. Hey it could happen...

No shame in this loss. Dallas was all business tonight and for good reason. We competed and stayed close and that in itself is a marked improvement over last season. If everyone's healthy the outcome may have been much different.

Is there really at this point anything not to like about the future of this team?

Congratulations to you and your family Mike.

11:44 PM  
spanishchocolate said...

This is a brief parragraph to encourage Sergio Rodríguez in his new life. We are very proud of you. Go ahead and work hard. You will have your option. Kisses from Spain

7:21 AM  
Happy Camper said...

Mike, Considering how thin Portland is at center with 2 injuries, How soon do you think it will be before Lamarcus is starting at center to help deal with these slow starts? Until Joel gets back and with the lineup of Mags and Zach not working together I expect to see Aldridge starting if not tuesday, then weds. I've been worying about burning out zach with all the minutes, but with aldridge available and once joel gets back our frontline looks excellent. I hope brandon't heel get's better (i'm more worried about it being completly better than just quickly better-although the quicker the better)One more thought, a showdown for rookie of the year between Brandon and Lamarcus?? - it could happen!

8:05 AM  
Hap said...

did I miss the announcement of who won the naming rights for the baby?

I liked how LaMarcus played, a whole lot. For all of Sheeds faults (and he has plenty, and a lot in the negative self full-filling prophecy area)his shot was really good.

Zach's inside shot is lower, and LaMarcus's is higher. It's nice to have a rookie big man, who's able to play and have a clue as to how to play...and not one we have to watch develop over a long period of time.

You know, the Reggie Smith, Kevin Thompson, Ruben Boom Boom, and Ha's of the world.

Nothing against those guys, but it's nice to have a player who in his first game had almost a double double, and it wasn't just on ugly put-backs or botched plays.

9:41 AM  
ProudBFan said...

As always, thanks for the great blogging, Mike. I am now turning to your blog first thing the morning after every game to get the "real scoop". And a couple of observations from last night's game vs. Dallas:

1) Lamarcus Aldridge = WOW. I did not get the chance to see him play in college, and had no idea what to expect from him. IMO, he is already a better option at Center than Jamaal or Raef. Is it possible the Blazers have TWO legit Rookie of the Year candidates on their hands??? REALLY looking forward to seeing what Lamarcus can do with more PT (and confidence) under his belt.

2) Digging out from deficits. Having to fight our way back from deficits hasn't hurt us much yet, but that will change as the more veteran teams begin to hit their stride. The boyz have GOT to find a way to keep from falling so far behind so early in games. Maybe Lamarcus will help there, but it's more than just a 1-man job.

3) Injury update? I know we won't know about Brandon's prognosis until he wears the boot for another week or so, but when are Joel, Raef, and Darius expected back? And is Darius really looking at another surgery, or is that just code-speak for "on the trading-block"?

4) Jarrett: Not a lot of talk about the kid lately. He's been solid so far, but hasn't been producing super-stellar lines (ala Zach, Travis, Brandon). What's the general feeling about Jarrett's contributions so far? How does HE feel about his contributions? Are expectations too high right now? Does he / do the Blazers feel he is living in the shadow of some of the other surprising stories from this team so far? Should we expect Jarrett to shine? If so, when?

Thanks again for the great blogs. Pass our best wishes to the guys as they kick off this grueling road trip! Oh, and don't forget to thank Ricky Davis for helping to motivate this "pack of roaches".

GO BLAZERS!

PBF

1:05 PM  
OB said...

I'm sure the blazers will bounce back. Lets make it 4-0 on the road.
Check my blog. Updated daily.
http://www.blazersmania.blogspot.com

6:26 PM  
JarrettJackCollector said...

I have a question for Proudbfan... ARE YOU SERIOUS? How is Jack not living up to expectations, and how can you say that he is not putting up good enough numbers like his teammates Outlaw and Roy? Check the stats buddy!

13.3 ppg - 2nd on team
6.6 ast - 1st on team
2.6 stl - 1st on team
.941% FT - 2nd on team

How do these numbers pale in comparison with those of Travis Outlaw or Brandon Roy??? Maybe he doesn't put up Zach Randolph type numbers because 1) the offense runs through Randolpoh and 2) Jack is an unselfish PG that looks to set up his teammates first. I'll tell you why Jack gets no love. It is because everyone is too busy kissing up to Brandon Roy. Don't get me wrong, he is a pretty decent player BUT he is not as good as everyone hypes him up to be. NO JORDAN THERE FOLKS!

6:36 PM  
The Back Judge said...

I don't get it, Mike. Why no love for Jarrett Jack? And proudbfan, you have no idea what you're talking about.

20 points, 10 assists and 4 steals (not to mention only 3 turnovers) is not "super-stellar" enough for you? He gave the Blazers a chance in this game by getting to the line and stopping the clock.

7:08 PM  
ProudBFan said...

JarrettJackCollector & The Back Judge: I am a HUGE Jarrett Jack fan and want to see him get more pub than he currently is. I think his contributions are getting overshadowed right now - mostly by the HUGE numbers Zach is putting up. GO JARRETT! GO BLAZERS!!!

PBF

12:49 AM  

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No Nate Friday Against Hornets
posted: 11/9/2006 at 10:34 PM


Something was missing from Trail Blazers' practice on Thursday morning at the practice facility in Tualatin. It actually took me a few minutes to notice it, I'm ashamed to say (in my defense, the team was practicing on court #2 which is quite a distance from where I was sitting. And, Blazers PR guru Mike Hanson was blocking my view, as usual). I then asked out loud, "where's Nate?" It was then explained to me that his family had suffered a loss, and he was flying to a funeral. I'm sorry for coach Mac and he'll be returning to Portland late on Saturday night. It can never be said that our leader doesn't have his priorities in order.

McMillan will miss Friday night's game against the New Orleans / Oklahoma City Hornets at the Rose Garden. He'll be replaced on the sideline by lead assistant coach Dean Demopoulos. The team is in capable hands. If you recall, when Nate was chucked from a game last season in Minnesota early in the third quarter, coach Dean led the team to a big win over the Timberwolves. So, we can say that he is 1 and 0 as head coach. Well, I guess technically he is a one-half and 0. Either way, Demopoulos has been an assistant to McMillan for a long time, and was busy putting in the game plan for the game against the Hornets.

Two things happened on Thursday night that were positives when looking at the next two home games. The Hornets lost their first game, and the Dallas Mavericks, who visit the Rose Garden on Sunday, got their first win. I didn't want to face an unbeaten team, or a winless team. By the way, how crazy would you have had to have been before the season, to think after four games that the Hornets would be 4 and 0, and Dallas would be 0 and 4? Over an 82-game schedule, things have a way of evening out, so I wouldn't read too much into either record at this point.

With that being said, how much can we read into the fact that the Blazers are 3 and 2? Even though Portland is getting some mentions in the national media as being one of the biggest surprises here in the first week, nobody seems to think it will last. It's almost being looked at as the Blazers having stolen their three wins. I wouldn't go that far, but I would have to admit that the Seattle and Minnesota wins could have gone either way in the final seconds. Still, learning how to win is a huge step towards becoming a competitive team. So, Portland clearly deserves a good amount of credit.

We've talked many times about the fact that the Blazers have been doing this with a less-than-healthy roster. Five key players were out on Wednesday when they beat the Lakers, including the 2nd and 6th picks in the NBA Draft. We're still not sure if Brandon Roy will return for the game against the Hornets, and we think LaMarcus Aldridge will see his first NBA action within the next 4 or 5 days. Raef LaFrentz is getting healthy, and should return within a week, and Joel Przybilla may not make the trip back east that begins on Tuesday at Minnesota. Things are getting better in the injury department, and that's my point.

The Blazers did announce on Thursday that Darius Miles will be undergoing knee surgery. It'll just be a scope and not the much more serious microfracture surgery, so that's good news. It's still not great news, because it means Darius will miss probably the next month and a-half or two. I talked to him before the Laker game, and he said it's killing him not being able to play. He loves what's going on with this team and would love to be a part it. That will have to wait.

Aldridge went through his second full-contact practice with the team today. It was a fairly light practice, but LaMarcus took part in a spirited three-on-three game following practice. It was Aldridge, Stephen Graham, and Dan Dickau going against Sergio Rodriguez, Travis Outlaw, and Martell Webster. I never saw who won the game, but I did see LaMarcus doing some impressive things. You're going to love this guy. He's a better shooter, with better range, than you're probably expecting. He's got some seriously long arms and will really add to the front line. He also runs the court as well as any player the Blazers have, big or small.

Thursday night it was another episode of the award-winning radio show, Trail Blazers Courtside, presented by L.A. Weight Loss. One host was noticeably absent- me. Brian Wheeler and Mike Rice handled things very well. I took the night off to be with my wife, who will be giving birth to our second child very early Friday morning.

Our first child, Jack, was an off-season baby, and was born in June. This one, a girl (no name as of right now, but that'll change by Friday), is an early-season baby. The timing wasn't as ideal in this case, but who the heck cares? I know she doesn't. It does work out well however, because Friday night's game is radio-only, so my attendance isn't mandatory. And, I won't be there. I will return for Sunday's game against Dallas, which is on FSN. Then, I'll be leaving with the team early Monday morning as we head out for the 4-game trip. It won't be easy to leave, and I'm not looking forward to it. But, I'll be with my second family- the team, TV crew, and my fellow broadcasters. Their support will make it easier. And I mean it when I say we're a family. I hope that comes through to all of you. I work with great people.

So, what am I doing posting a blog when I'm heading into the stressful world of childbirth in several hours? Well, I'm nervous, and working is the best way to take the edge off. I'm not going to be able to sleep tonight anyway. You probably won't see a blog tomorrow night, so understand. I'll be at the hospital. But, my wife is cool enough that she'll demand we listen to Wheels and Tone as they call the game on the radio. I'll post a photo when I get the chance. Thanks for all the comments and well wishes you've already sent. I'll just be getting an assist. My wife is the MVP of this game. Perspective is a wonderful thing.

Check out interviews from Courtside:
FoxSports.com's Mike Kahn MP3 || iTunes Podcast

Trail Blazers Assistant Coach Dean Demopoulos MP3 || iTunes Podcast

 
23 Comments:
Mike said...

Congrats on the new arrival, MB.

12:24 AM  
Mike said...

Oh yeah, and my condolences go out to Nate and his family.

12:25 AM  
mrblazer said...

Huge congratualations, Mike! I'm super excited for you. Daughters are fantastic. Mine is two, and she's been so much fun, i wish i could go back and do it all again. If she's not the best thing to ever happen to the world, she's definitely the best thing ever to happen to me. You're a lucky man, Mike. Best of wishes to your family.

As for your other family, Mike, the chemistry between all of you is obvious. When us fans see and hear how much fun you all are having, it makes the experience that much more exciting. Your guys' enthusiasm is contagious.
I wish the organization would be half as liberal with long lucrative contracts in regards to its broadcasting teams and TV crews as it has been for certain players. I mean, hey, you guys don't even count against the salary cap.

I would like to throw out some support to Nate and his family, and give condolences for their loss. I hope coach retires in the Blazer family. He was my pick for Coach of the Year.

1:41 AM  
Lee D said...

My condolences to Coach McMillan for his loss. There is never a good time for losing a loved one. May you and your family be consoled and comforted in this time.

My congratulations to you and your wife Mike. Child birth is a wonderful reminder that the world starts afresh each day. May this day and the days to come be blessed for you and your family.

Blazers - nice start. Wins over the Lakers are worth double here.

1:56 AM  
bradley. said...

Mike -

Wow. I can't believe you posted again. I understand, though. Congrats on the birth of your daughter. I wish you and your family the best. I'll be there cheering in your place on Friday. Hopefully some more people will come out to the game and Roy can play some good minutes. Either way, I am sure we'll win...

Much appreciation,

bradley.

2:44 AM  
chrisinhawaii said...

Congratulations Mike! I wish you, your wife, Jack, and your new baby girl all the best. GOD BLESS AND HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!!

3:16 AM  
spinner said...

Congratulations Mike! your 6th men are behind you.

7:52 AM  
MadDogg said...

My sincerest condolences to the McMillan family. The loss of a family memeber can be one of the hardest things we ever deal with in our lives. It really puts into perspective the difficulties you might face on the court.

I think the Blazers will do fine without Nate. If anything they should play better in support of their coach.

This season has been truly eye opening in terms of the difference a coach can make on a young squad. Mac has brought a level of maturity and respect for the staff that I haven't seen in years. Truly an example to his peers.

Congrats to you Mike on your new edition. We all wish you and your family the best, and we're proud to be introducing another Blazer fan to the world.

Tonight against the Hornets will be tough. But as the Oregonian pointed out, as good as Chris Paul is, Jarret Jack is no slouch, and actually has better numbers in college. And didn't we just beat a 4-1 team by shutting down their youngest all-star?

Oh, and Mike, I know you'll be too wrapped up for the next week to blog, but if you get a chance, you should respond to the comments on my blog; mosblazerblog.blogspot.com

8:21 AM  
jans said...

Congrats, Mike. Being there for your childs birth is one of the most important events a family can have. Its a true blessing. The pre-game jitters fade quick. time for action. good luck,
jans

8:44 AM  
jans said...

Congrats, Mike. Being there for your childs birth is one of the most important events a family can have. Its a true blessing. The pre-game jitters fade quick. time for action. good luck,
jans

8:44 AM  
mfree said...

Congratulations Mike! Please relay that to your wife and family. Also please relay condolences to Nate and his family. We will miss both of you. As you said, you work with your second family. I am pretty sure that applies to a lot of us. During the season we all (true Blazer fans) see the team (including, but not limited to the broadcasters)as our second family. What a life! Lol, I wish I wore your shoes. You are so fortunate to have a Great job, and 2 great families. Congratulations again.

11:18 AM  
goblazers_18 said...

congrats on the baby mike!

4:45 PM  
Sarah said...

Just wanted to send out huge congratulations to you Mike! I am sending out huge condolences to Nate for his loss..My heart goes out to him. GO BLAZERS!!!!! I am so excited to listen to tonight's game! I wish I could be there in person though!

6:44 PM  
ASadek said...

Hey Mike it's your main man right here. I know you have heard this about 200 times already today but Congradulations on Gabrielle. The picture that you sent me is awesome and she is so cute. Hopefully this weekend or next week I'll get to come over and see her. Anyways, that is so bad what happened to Coach's family, it's very sad. Also, I just read what happened with Roy during the Hornets game that sucks big time now that he will be gone for up to 2 weeks. Well, RANDOLPH FOR MVP!!! Hope to see you soon!

11:43 PM  
TPforThree said...

Just wanted to say congratulations on your healthy new baby girl Mike!Also my best goes out to Nate and his family. It's always difficult to deal with the loss of a loved one and I hope good things for the both of you.

2:55 AM  
Master Shake said...

Comment on hornets win.

At first I thought that this was the point that I would have to come to reality about the talent on this team. Then they pulled off another gut it out win . Not sure what to make of that.

I will say this.

That Wheeler guy at first I was not impressed with his wrestleing background but I must say that he has become exceptionally good at describing what is happening on the court.

I'm a bit embarrased to say that a radio feed of a game had me smileing for a good five minutes after a game but it did.

Good work team blazers all of you.

Climb that golden latter

4:57 AM  
Tenerife said...

Sr. McMillan aunque no lo crea Tenerife existe y nos preocupamos por Sergio Rodríguez. No piense que su negativa a ponerle en cancha nos deja indiferentes. Dicen que el malogrado Fernando Martín debutó contra Seatle por que había periodistas españoles en la grada, así que, si quiere viajaremos a Estados Unidos para ver como usted apuesta por el nuestro, el dorsal número once de su equipo.

Para jugar en los Blazers, no creo que sea necesario formarse en la University de Gonzaga (Dan Dickau), Georgia Tech (Jarrett Jack) o en la de Washington (Brandon Roy), todos ellos centros universitarios norteamericanos. No creo tampoco que sea imprescindible ser negro porque Dan es blanco como las cotufas. Descartamos lo de blanco y quiero pensar que también descartamos lo de Rookie, ¿verdad?.

En su haber como técnico tiene más derrotas, 246, que victorias, 237, ¡piense los motivos coah! Cierto es que en Noviembre de 2004 le eligieron como el entrenador del mes, tras su racha de trece victorias y sólo tres derrotas con además nueve triunfos consecutivos. Espero que aquello no fuera “flor de un mes”. En 2005 me cuentan que fue el tercer mejor entrenador del año. No dudamos de lo gran entrenador que es.

Se está pensando enviar a Sergio a la D-League. ¿Para qué? ¿Para que destaque en esa competición que se le queda larga y vuelva al Rose Garden con los mismos errores? Pierde balones, pues trabájele esa faceta y no lo ignore. En el resto es bueno, muy bueno, suma puntos, pasa, rebotea, roba y es más rápido que el noventa por ciento de los Blazers. Y si lo quería para la NDBL lo podía haber dejado en Phoenix. No olvidemos que los Suns fueron los que eligieron a Sergio Rodríguez en el Draft de Nueva York.

El seleccionador nacional español, Pepu Hernández a dicho, “me preocupa la situación de Sergio” por si lo quiere tener en cuenta. Rodríguez metió a España en la final del Mundial 2006 de Japón. Aunque creo que usted lo pudo ver en tierras niponas.

Parece mentira que usted, formado en la Universidad de North Carolina, la misma que el jugador más grande de la historia de este maravilloso deporte, no apueste por un joven con talento y baloncesto innato. Usted apuesta por jóvenes valores y eso me deja mas en fuera de juego para pensar lo que puede estar pasando con el “Spanish Chocolate”. Pregúntele más a Kevin Pritchard (ex Cáceres en ACB, la mejor liga de Europa), uno de sus asistentes, por el único campeón del mundo que tiene en sus filas.

Soy testigo de su baloncesto como jugador, “Mr. Sonic”, llevaba el 10 de los Seatle con orgullo, era atrevido y se rodeaba de buenos jugadores como el gran Xavier McDaniel. Usted fue base y sabe que jugar en la mejor liga del mundo no es fácil. Tenga en cuenta a este joven de veinte años de El Ortigal, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.

Si es necesario le llamaremos el 03 de Agosto de 2007 para felicitarle por su 43 cumpleaños. Sin miedo Don Nate, confíe en Sergio el le devolverá con baloncesto del bueno su apuesta.

10:20 AM  
blazesmoke said...

go blazers

11:08 AM  
OrygunRod said...

Mike:

Children are the greatest joy, except for grandchildren. Congrats.

I am a great fan of Martell Webster who has loads of talent and potential but I was very disappointed in the way he acted during the Laker game. My wife and I bought the Blazer special and enjoyed the game from nosebleed seats. Martell made a 3 pointer then missed, missed again and his shoulders slumped, his head went down and his walk slowed to a crawl and then more so after he missed his next 3 pointer.

Is he still hurting from his back injury as he is not driving to the basket? His mood seems very up and down and hopefully maturity will help that -- is someone working with him on that now?

OrygunRod

2:51 PM  
tigerman12 said...

First off, congrats MB. Awsome for you and the family.

Second, my condolences for Nate and his family, been there just last year myself.

Man, what more can be said of the team? They are playing as a team....finally! That game was as a good as a loss after the first quarter. After they got it close at the end of the third quarter, I just knew deep down that they were going to pull it off. They have three come from behinds already this season and that will give them confidence and lead them to believe that they can rally at any time.

Randolph is rocking right now. He's figured out the low post is his home. Like I said before, if he continues to score in the low post and pass out of doubles, we'll win many games.

Jarret had a nice game against Paul and still has his number.

Travis. Dude you can be the man, and I keep hoping you will be. You have the tools, just bring the elan like you did Friday. 6 blocks! Are you kidding me? Keep it up.

I'm looking forward to Aldidge playing Sunday. I hope he amazes everyone, because I think he is the future at the 5 and will be the best at the position since Sabonis.

Roy get better quickly, we need you.

Keep scrapping Blazers!

4:52 PM  
blazerfan1 said...

WOW!!! The Ist quarter brought thoughts of last year, but I told myself, "Remember Minnesota", I wasn't dissapointed. BLAZERS RULE.

8:13 PM  
Brad said...

Our baby was born on Wednesday morning. How exciting! Also a little girl. :)

9:50 PM  
ProudBFan said...

Regarding the possibility of Brandon having surgery, here is an interesting little poll for you:

http://www.basketballboards.net/forum/showthread.php?t=315907

Keep up the great blogging, Mike!

PBF

8:00 AM  

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Randolph Leads Blazers Over Lakers
posted: 11/8/2006 at 11:34 PM


It's been a pretty good couple of days in Blazerland. First, we get the news that Brandon Roy has only a minor injury and will miss just one game. We then get the news that LaMarcus Aldridge could see his first NBA action as early as Sunday against Dallas. Then, without Roy, Przybilla, LaFrentz, Miles, and Aldridge, the Blazers hand the Lakers just their second loss of the season, 101-90, in front of a loud Rose Garden crowd.

Owner Paul Allen, who missed the home opener due to a bad case bronchitis, was pumping his fists into the air on Wednesday night in the closing seconds of the victory. He's been on hand for two games this regular season- the opening-night win in Seattle, and this win over the Lakers. That's a pretty good record.

When I was with Zach Randolph in Atlanta this past August, watching him workout and prepare for the season, he told me one of his goals for this season was to make the Western Conference All-Star team. It sounded like a lofty, and possible unrealistic goal at the time. But, following his second 30-point-plus, 10-rebound-plus effort, he's off to a very nice start. Zach had 35 points and 13 rebounds against the Clippers on Monday, badly outplaying Elton Brand. Against the Lakers Wednesday, Randolph had 36 points (on 12-23 shooting), and pulled down 10 rebounds. He also had 3 assists, 3 steals, and was 11 for 12 from the free-throw line.

Teams continue to double and triple-team Zach and it doesn't seem to matter. When teams try and guard him with just one player, it has almost always resulted in an easy bucket, or a trip to the line. No other power forward in the NBA has been as unstoppable early in the season. Zach is the only player in the NBA currently averaging over 25 points and over 10 rebounds per game. If he has even a decent game against the Hornets on Friday, he should be a lock for Western Conference Player of the Week honors. He deserves it.

Last season, Randolph, playing on his surgically repaired knee, spent too much time on the perimeter, and was heavily criticized for it. Now that he's in the best shape of his career, he's just about nailed to the low block, and the deep position has resulted in good things. He's establishing good position, is finishing, and is getting to the line. And, at 6-9, he's undersized for the position. Somehow, he's getting it done at a remarkable clip. He also helped get Andrew Bynum, who went for 20 and 14 on Tuesday night, in early foul trouble. Bynum was never a factor in this game, and ended with 2 points in 21 minutes. Lamar Odom, who came in averaging 22 points and 8 rebounds, ended with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 turnovers.

I talked to Brandon Roy outside the Blazers' locker room following the win, and he talked about how proud he was of his teammates. He also said it was "very tough watching from behind the bench," and that he plans on making his return on Friday.

With no Roy, the Blazers got great performances from two guys with non-guaranteed contracts. Ime Udoka, a last-minute training camp invitee, and Stephen Graham, claimed off waivers from Cleveland with two games left in the pre-season, both contributed to the win. Udoka had 9 points and 4 rebounds, but was huge defensively. He helped take Odom out of the game, and hit a huge three pointer in the second half.

Graham, who continues to show he belongs in this league, and perhaps with this team, had 11 points in 21 minutes. Graham also hit a big three with 1:19 left that pushed the Blazer lead back to 10, and all but ended the suspense. Juan Dixon regained his shooting touch, and was 5 for 7 with 10 points.

The Blazers led by as many as 15 in the second half, but had trouble putting the Lakers away for good. Kobe, who had a season-high 32, got hot in the fourth quarter and kept things interesting.

Nate McMillan was very proud of his young team following this victory, but isn't at all satisfied. They'll hit the practice floor on Thursday morning to get set for the game against the Hornets.

I'm looking forward to hearing from you about this win, and this kind of effort. It's the scrap and hustle you've been wanting to see. Keep the comments coming. And, just so you know, (mrblazer) I am not personally responsible for moderating the comments on this blog. I bounce around to other message boards from time to time, and the comments I see here are always the most well-thoughtout, most-intelligent posts of their kind. Thanks for taking the time.

 
24 Comments:
Mike said...

It's good to see that Z-Bo is finally earning his pay from his max contract.

12:23 AM  
goblazers_18 said...

hey, it was such a great game tonight. I just have a feeling this team will do big things. I cant wait until fridays game, in fact i look forward to each game i wish i could go to every single one. I enjoy lissoning to your broadcasting on the TV mike, i understand there is a opening for a intern broadcaster,does that person work along side you? ok well i cant wait to read the next blog have a good night :)

12:37 AM  
Master Shake said...

Zach is playing better than he ever has. Almost superhero level. Whats left? Quadruple-team?

A bit worried about the out of control play of Jack. He was the best choice out of the PGs from last year but is playing like early Stephon Marbury. He'll come around. Has to break himself of that carry-crossover move and driving too deep into traffic.

Almost thinking that Roy should be the point and Jack the two. Some more high picks would help both these guys . Like to see a little more of Dan and Sergio. Nice play from the team over all.

Rip City!

1:45 AM  
bradley. said...

Mike,

I can always count on you, man. I got to school in Bellingham but I was in Seattle for the road opener against the Sonics and I was in Portland for the home opener against the T-Wolves. I'll be there again this weekend for the Hornets and the Mavs. I love this team. I am so proud. Thank you for your insight.

bradley.

2:10 AM  
Hellosim said...

I must say Ime has been that hot glue guy that the team has needed for years. Give him a year contract and maybe even graham since he seemed more comfortable out there than in the other games, hope he keeps it up. His stroke and arch on shot looks pretty nice to my untrained eye. Zbo and Jamaal made Bynumb look like a freshmen in his first college game and they schooled him good! Anytime we beat the LA Kobis is a great win for all Oregonians! :P I like the team ball they are playing and they are learning from Nate! WTG!

4:05 AM  
MadDogg said...

What an important win for the Blazers. It feels like everything that has been happening this year is for a reason. Roy goes down, but it actually helps us expose our strengths and weaknesses. If the Blazers make the playoffs then I say Nate McMillian deserves coach of the year. I haven't seen a team with this much heart since the Drexler, Porter, Kersey days. Perhaps this will truly be the return of Rip City.

P.S. Mike, if you really do check out the blazer blogs then you should post a comment on mine. It's mosblazerblog.blogspot.com

7:15 AM  
Motosportz said...

I love this new team. No attitudes, hard working, well coached, young hard working guys that want to play. WOW. And Zack, stunning. I was cracking up at ESPN's halftime coverage talking about Kobe and not even mentioning Zack whom was obviously putting up numbers and helping his team win. I think Nate finally has something he can do something with and no attitudes to deal with like in the past (or at least it appears that way). I was hesitant when i saw the roster before the season started, I'm on board now, big time. GO BLAZERS!

7:28 AM  
Naterocks4u said...

ok. two words. BEAT LA! that was the whole topic of the game. and we need to make ime's and graham's contract's guaranteed! let them feel more comfortable!

man, im telling you, if you were seated in the level 200 sections, you will have the impact of seeing everyone...Blazers fans...all are heckling the lakers fan..some on my side mocked the lakers fan that was seated with the group. i was booing every time kobe had a ball in his hands...and so did everyone else. too bad the tron didnt have "BEAT LA", all it had was D fense and...lets go blazers...we need more creative cheers and taunts specifically for the lakers and other teams...like...oh i dont know that much because i only gone to 3 games at the rose garden, but last year, i watched the blazers game on kgw whenever i could...this year, im so giddy after the draft day and all the trades...i became a season ticket holder! arguably the youngest, even. im 19, and im proud to be a season ticket holder!!!

anyway, it felt so good to yell, and yell, and yell for the blazers!!! im sure we all yelled loud enough for the tv audience to not hear the tv reporters, mike and mike...sorry, but we had to!!! haha.

anyway, take that, LAKERS!

7:43 AM  
Briman said...

I am just blown away at how much trust this team has for one and other. You don't perform at the level Zach is playing at without your teammates firmly back you, and for the first time in maybe 10 years I feel like this is a team and everyone is satisfied with their roles.

If he can keep this up don't you believe there will be some MVP whispers going around? Especially if the Blazers can stay above 500%. Imagine that MVP and ROY... Hell, Dixon is even a decent pick for 6th man.

Pinch me, I must be dreaming.

8:30 AM  
woodfloor guy said...

Blazers,
SHOW IME THE MONEY!

9:19 AM  
Connor said...

Wow just wow. Zach Randolph the top big man in the league. The team looked great. Just think. No Roy, Aldirge, Joel, Raef, miles and we still cleaned their clocks. This team has something they didn't have much of except for a few players...heart. Ive been a hardcore fan since i could remember. I havn't been this pumped in a while. I watch every game on TV. GO PORTLAND

Mike=Blog MVP

9:21 AM  
mfree said...

In yeseterdays blog I stated "Who will step up" I think we know who that is. It was really nice to see the "Garbage Handler" Handle the garbage. Zach!!!! Did you eat your wheaties or what? At one point I was thinking get him out of here. Now i'm thinking get the ball to Zach. Overall that was a great game. A few mental mistakes, but hey it is a young team. Would have liked to see a little more of Dan, but Webster and Dixons play made that thought go away. I guess that is why Nate is the coach and i'm not. The coachability of these guys was evedent when they came in after the time out and looked like a different team. Nice coaching Nate!! Nice listening, and applying Team. Now it's on to Friday and Win, Win, Win!!!!! I sure miss that alley-oop though. LOL!!!!!

9:42 AM  
woodfloor guy said...

I just read John Canzano's article, and he called the Blazers
"less-talented but more focused Blazers." I totally disagree. Now let me be clear..while I was excited about the moves the Blazers made this summer, I remained sceptical about their chances until watching them play during the reg. season. After all, my Dolphins were on the way to the Superbowl in preseason. But watching this Blazer team, I thinks its rediculous to say they are less talented, infact they are very talented. The difference this year is players are willing to accept roles, play hard and play more as a team. Yes they are still learning how to play with each other, and many are still learning the pro game and developing their talents, but John, they are not the team they were last year. these guys have talent.
PS.
Udoka is a major part of the effort and team play. He needs a gaurenteed contract.

SHOW IME THE MONEY!

10:11 AM  
woodfloor guy said...

Please excuse the type-o's in my last post, my spelling abilities are better than that!

11:01 AM  
cliftondalesmith said...

i am so happy of the performance from portland this far. i watched both home games and felt that excitement i did five or so years ago. i am a huge blazer fan andi see a much better team this year. z-bo has changed my mind about him so far. he was on fire like crazy. it's going to be a good year i can just feel it. i think once roy, pryzbilla and alldridge come back it's on like donkey kong baby!

11:44 AM  
YellowJackets said...

This team has been great so far this year. I still think Jack isn't getting the respect he deserves though. He has lead the team in assists and steals on more than one occasion and for the most part shot a decent percentage. The only problem really has been Turnovers in a couple of games but from what I keep reading, seems to be the norm with the new ball.

12:30 PM  
blazerfan1 said...

I am in AWE. I have watched every game this season. The Blazers can play competitively against everybody and WIN too. 3 out of 5, mathamatically equals 58 out of 80.
I know I'm dreaming, but why not. The Blazers are that good right now. P.S> BLAZER Mangement: Give IME a Contract NOW, us FANS will repect you even more.

1:51 PM  
D Buscho said...

MB! Whatsup man, life is good right now isn't it. Hey I agree with our Asst GM, great blogs, you looked a little humble/flustered about that compliment on TV though, why's that man?? You could be huge in this business, I wouldn't want you to stop doing Blazer games but I can't think of any better announcer OR blogger off the top of my head. Good Job, and hey, how about some props on my predictions last night huh?? I'm 22, been goin to games since I was 6 and never liked a team more than this one, prob cause most of them are my age maybe, I dunno.

My favorite play last night is a tie between Randolph and Jack. Z-BO causin the steal that led to that sweet dunk had me jumpin up and down and when Jack JACKED the ball from KOBE and got the AND1 on the other end I almost cried...almost

It hasn't been mentioned yet so in case anyone didn't know...the new power reankings are out and the blazers jumped from 30TH to 9TH!!!

1:58 PM  
spinner said...

Props to Jamal. Without him picking up the slack for injured Pryzbilla, (did i spell it right?) we would be in a world of hurt right now. This year the team has a good head on their shoulders. Coach has got them under control, getting into the offense instead of the one pass to Z-bo we saw so much last year. What is it going to take for Outlaw to break out of his shell? I'd like to see him step up and play with emotion and a chip on his shoulder.

2:37 PM  
RipCityFanDan said...

It's Blazermania once again in Rip City! What an exciting exhibition of hustle and teamwork lastnight by the Blazers. Ime Udoka has my vote for a garanteed contract.

The play of this team has me glued to the boob tube and has revived my passion for this team. Go Blazers!

4:10 PM  
RipCityFanDan said...

Blazers once again have heart and class! Wednesday's game against the Lakers show what Rip City is all about. We saw hustle, teamwork, and tenacity. Ime Udoka has my vote for a garanteed contract. Go Blazers!

4:28 PM  
tigerman12 said...

You can't help but root for this team. It's been a long time coming.

Great news about Roy and Aldrige. I'm looking forward to seeing him play.

I think Zach is listening. He's done a much better job of getting down on the block and passing, yes passing, out of the doubles and triples. We are going to win many games if he continues to do that.

Keep it up Ime!

Suprising, but noone has mentioned Miles. To be honest.....we just don't win these games if he's on the floor. He's foul and turnover prone and plays laxy defense. These games were won with unity and scrap. I for one, hope he's traded before even coming back from the injury. We just don't need him.

6:18 PM  
Naterocks4u said...

This post has been removed by a blog administrator.

7:08 PM  
Lee D said...

Nice work Blazers! My favorite play was Jack driving the left side with Kobe going for the block of Jack's left hand at the basket and Jack driving under him to score with his right hand. Sweet.

Zack has stepped up to the level of the really good players at his position, outplaying in succession KG, Brand and

4:16 AM  

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No Roy Wednesday, but Outlook Very Good
posted: 11/7/2006 at 10:53 PM


It'll be a tough challenge again tonight, as the shorthanded Trail Blazers take on the L.A. Lakers at the Rose Garden. The game will be televised on KGW-8, and the Trail Blazers Television Network, beginning at 6:30 with NW Chevy Home Court. The game will also be on the Trail Blazers Radio Network with Brian Wheeler and Antonio Harvey.

As you know by now, the Blazers will be without Brandon Roy. But, as you also probably know, the news concerning Roy is very, very good. When news of his injured heel came down during the second half of the game against the Clippers Monday night, my phone started ringing. Everyone wanted to know what's wrong with Brandon, and if they should fear the worst. We went into Tuesday morning still not knowing much. I had many phone calls and e-mails asking me "is it serious? Is it a stress fracture, Achilles injury, or worse?"

Tuesday afternoon I was having a discussion with assistant general manager Kevin Pritchard, in his office, when the phone rang. It was Blazers head athletic trainer Jay Jensen with the news of the MRI Roy had performed on his left heel. I was relieved when I heard KP say on his end of the conversation, "so, it's not bad? Out for Wednesday, back on Friday?" I obviously wasn't the only one in the room thrilled to get that news. Pritchard then relayed the news to a very concerned Paul Allen, and I called my wife (yes, we're both big fans).

Brandon has an impingement on the calcaneus bone in his left foot. In English, that basically means he has a bone bruise in his heel. He got a cortizone shot, very routine, and will be fitted with an orthodic insole on Thursday. He will sit out the game against the Lakers, but should return for the game against the Hornets on Friday.

The second-overall pick in June's NBA Draft, LaMarcus Aldridge, went through practice on Tuesday. That's his first full-contact practice of the season. He has been cleared, but won't likely see action until next week's road trip gets underway at Minnesota on Tuesday. It's possible he could play against Dallas on Sunday, and will obviously want to, since he's from Dallas. We'll see how the next few days go, as he's evaluated by the training staff. Either way, it's good that he's back, and the front line certainly could use the help.

Joel Przybilla continues to recover from his injury, and should also be back for the road trip. It's been a long, painful week for Joel. I'm not going to get into the injury again, but the swelling is going down, and he's at least able to move around the house a bit now. He's told me on several occasions, this was the worst pain he's ever gone through, and was a very scary thing. Good thing he's got Tiger Woods 07 on the X Box 360. I'd hate to think he's just been wasting this time. He also has NBA 2K7, but gets frustrated because he thinks he looks like a skinhead in the video game. He also tends to give himself a few more shots in the offense when playing as the Blazers. I even saw him bring the ball up the floor the other day, and said, "give me a break. Pass the ball." He replied, "are you in any video games?" Well played.

As for the game against the Lakers, they are flying high at 4 and 1 coming into Wednesday night's game. They beat Minnesota 95-88 Tuesday night, and that was with Kobe only taking 7 shots. I have a feeling he'll be looking to do a little more damage than that against the Blazers.

Martell Webster will start at the shooting guard spot against the Lakers, replacing Roy. Martell did not have a good game against the Clippers on Monday. He played only 15 minutes, and was 0 for 3. Perimeter offense is a must if the Blazers want to be in this game. Not only does Webster need to turn it up a notch, but so does Juan Dixon. Juan is just 9 for 31 since opening night at Seattle. He had the game-winner against Minnesota, of course, but other than that, has been frustrated with his past three games.

Look for the zone defense again for Portland against the Lakers. It was very effective against the Clippers, especially in the first half. Going zone will also help contain L.A.'s slashers, Kobe included. The guy they'll have to worry about is Andrew Bynum. He had 20 points and 14 rebounds for the Lakers in the win over the Timberwolves Tuesday.

Talk to you on TV Wednesday night at 6:30.

 
9 Comments:
Mark said...

Very great news about Roy! I am very relieved. He's a tough kid and figured he wouldn't miss too much time. Very funny comments about Joel, it made me laugh. I hope to see LaMarcus out and running wild on the court soon! Like you said, we could really use him! Hopefully the Blazers can pull one off against the early successful Lakers.

2:26 AM  
Former Zag said...

Glad to hear that Roy is going to be back soon. I would like to see Dickau out there to help us get some scoring from the outside. I do understand that he is somewhat of a liabilty on the defvensive end, but he has the ability to score and create at the offensive end, and as you said, we need to become a little more versitile on the offensive end. I am anxious to see how Mr. Aldridge can help...we could use some presence down low and he seems to be a very physical athletic body to help us out there. I hope Pryzbilla gets well soon too. Go get'em boys, I am very encouraged so far by the effort and discipline so far.

11:12 AM  
D Buscho said...

Good to hear Brandon's fine, go study that Hornet film buddy.

So you're telling me that BOTH teams will only have one center on their entire rosters tonight?? Better hope we get back on D or someone might be on Sportscenter tonight via a guy named Kobe...Or perhaps via a guy named Travis...hmmm...

In a fast-paced game like this where hustle, strength and endurance are rewarded, look for the conditioned and energetic Blazers to thrive on our home court, especially in the second half and especially Graham and Udoka who just may have their best games yet.

Tonight we'll get a good look at the mental toughness of JJ, the crowd will be nuts and the ball will be in his hands...I'm not even worried, are you?

Someone please bring a sign that reads "LA WHO?? I THOUGHT THEY WERE THE CLIPPERS?" or one that says "SHOULD HAVE DONE SOME SCOUTING" or something like that. Regardless, those lucky enough to go to the game need to fuel our players tonight, the more energy the better, let them hear ya out there! Blazers by 18!

12:13 PM  
Hap said...

I love the "are YOU in any video games" crack.

well played indeed.

Good to see that Joel is just as big of a goof as most of us fans are.

just a bit richer. And by a bit, I mean A WHOLE LOT.

1:55 PM  
ShSstorm said...

I'LL still be at the game even though brandon wont be playing, go blazers!!!!!!!!!


trail blazer fan

-Andrew

3:37 PM  
mfree said...

Great news about Roy. I am very incouraged by the blazers skills this year. Hopefully we can stay healthy. Having issues in that area already! Not a good sign! Yes I would like to see Aldridge in action. We will have to use Dickau to open up the middle. He is a defensive liability, but we will have to take that risk to get the inside spread out. Tonight should be really interesting to see who steps up in the time of need.

3:44 PM  
mfree said...

Good to hear Brandon is alright. Health problems with the team this early in the season. Not a good sign! I am very engouraged by the effort, and definite coachability issues that plagued last year.We will see what Aldridge can do very soon. We will need to use Dickau to open up the middle. Yes there is a liability on defence, But we will have to make sure We make up for that with his 3s and assists. With good coaching, HARD WORK, and a little luck. It can be done!!! We can be in the playoffs.

4:02 PM  
ROY=rookie of the year said...

YES!!! I was gettin mad the other day cuz while i was refreshing the page that displays the score, ROy wasn't playing and only scored 3 points... im glad it is not long, i thought he was gonna be out for a week!!!

11:55 PM  
Jamie said...

Hi from Seattle - there are a lot of Portland fans up here now! Good riddance to the Oklahoma City Sonics...

Glad to hear that Roy's injury is really minor. We sure miss him at UW, but glad he stayed in the Northwest. Go Blazers!!!!

11:52 AM  

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Good News Concerning Brandon Roy
posted: at 4:58 PM


At approximately 4:30 pm on Tuesday afternoon the results of Brandon Roy's MRI were revealed. And, it appears, BlazerNation can rest easy. The test did not reveal a stress fracture, or anything wrong with the Achilles tendon, the two major concerns. It was found that Roy has an impingement in his talus bone. While this has been the cause of the nagging pain, it is not considered a long-term injury.

Roy has been treated with a cortizone shot, and will have special orthodics made for his shoes. He has been ruled out of Wednedsay's game with the Lakers, but will most likely return Friday, when the Blazers host the New Orleans / Oklahoma City Hornets.

The orthodic will be made, and tested, on Thursday. A number of NBA players wear specially-made inserts in their shoes to treat problems like this.

Continuing with the good news, LaMarcus Aldridge participated in his first full practice on Tuesday, and looked very good. It's been stated that he could see action as early as Sunday against Dallas. That could be a bit optimistic, but he will most certainly play on the upcoming 4-game road trip that begins at Minnesota a week from Wednesday.

The news on Roy though, is great, and I'll have more later on tonight. Wanted to get this much to you first.

 
5 Comments:
The Hyper Bully said...

WHEW!!

Is Lamarcus coming back earlier than planned because of all the other injuries? Or is he really ready?

How are Joel's ummm... you know... ummm... let me start that over. How is Joel's injury healing? Has his voice changed at all?

5:32 PM  
TheBeastBoy said...

THIS IS AWESOME!!! With all the injuries we already have, knowing Roy will most likely only miss one game, and probably have limited minutes Friday, he is NOT going to be gone long. Great news. Also, GREAT news about Aldridge. For an offseason where we got "bigger", we haven't gotten healthier with then. Aldridge should bring some much need height and athletic ability.

Thanks for the great news. It truly seems things are changing here.

5:34 PM  
DLWM said...

The cortisone bothers me a great deal. Let the pain and injury heal naturally rather than trying to mask it. Who cares about the next few games, or the next months games .... it's his future that should be held paramount

5:44 PM  
splizzle said...

Cortisone is not meant to "mask" pain.

"Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication. Cortisone is not a pain relieving medication, it only treats the inflammation. When pain is decreased from cortisone it is because the inflammation is diminished. By injecting the cortisone into a particular area of inflammation, very high concentrations of the medication can be given while keeping potential side-effects to a minimum."

7:24 PM  
EnVision1 said...

LOL! That was funny. I would hope they would take care of the future of the TrailBlazers a little better than that.(It's a big investment you know).

I'm loving this new Blazer team. I hope they keep this same group of guys together for a LONG time. I can't wait to see some of these centers in the NBA try to keep up with Lamarcus. :P

11:11 PM  

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(Very) Shorthanded Blazers Fall to Clips
posted: 11/6/2006 at 10:24 PM



First off, let's discuss the biggest question that's on your mind. I wish I had a better answer for you.

Brandon Roy injured his heel late in the first half on Monday night against the Clippers in L.A., and didn't return. He warmed up at halftime, and was going to try and give it a go in the second half, but couldn't. It's just being called "pain in his heel" at this point. The Blazers are scheduled for practice on Tuesday and I'll try and find out more. I'll give you and update if I have any better idea.

The one thing I do know, is Brandon is a tough guy. If he could have been out there, he would have been. Hopefully it isn't serious, and that he was just held out for precautionary reasons. No reason to think anything other than that at this point.

The Clippers ended up getting the win over the Blazers, 102-89. All things considered, for the Blazers to be in this thing in the second half, was a testament to the guys who were out there battling. They were totally outsized, and were beaten on the backboards, but never gave up in the game. They had the Clippers lead cut to 2 late in the third, but the Clips immediately responded and went on a 17-1 run. The Blazers still wouldn't die, and cut it to 9 with 3 and a-half to go in the fourth, but could get no closer.

In the past few years in this series, Zach Randolph and Elton Brand have usually cancelled each other out in these games. It's always a great matchup, and they are players with very similar games. If you would have said going in that Zach would dominate Brand, I would have said the Blazers win the game. He absolutely got the best of Brand.

Randolph ended the game with 35 points, on 11 of 17 shooting, and also grabbed 13 rebounds. He got to the line, and shot 13 of 15. The biggest sequence by Zach, and one that showed his heart and desire, was with 3:55 left in the third quarter. He stumbled to the hoop, made a difficult shot, and then lost his balance and nearly went down. His man, Brand, flew to the other end of the floor on the fast break. Zach sprinted, caught him, made the steal on the entry pass to Brand, and took it all the way down the floor, scored, was fouled, and made a three-point play. That made it 61-59, Clippers. Then, the Blazers went cold. Again, that was with 4 minutes left in the third, and the Blazers didn't score their next field goal until the 8:47 mark of the 4th quarter.

They tried to fight back, and were difficult to put away. They got the Clippers' lead down to single digits, but finally fell.

The amazing thing about Randolph's night is that he was called for two quick fouls early in the game, and went to the bench. It was the last thing the team needed, and possibly in past years, it could have meant a long night for Zach. To his credit, he fought back and was called for only one more foul the rest of the way.

It was a solid first half for Portland, and to combat their lack of size, went with a zone defense that had the Clippers confused. It's the zone defense we've seen, where Portland matches up to make it look like man-to-man, and then switches into a zone. The Blazers briefly took a 5-point lead in the second quarter, but couldn't make it stick. The Clips went to the half with a 4-point lead. Good teams make adjustments, and the Clippers, confused by the defense initially, made the proper changes, and got the win.

It was also a good game for Jarrett Jack, who scored 17 points, on 8 of 14 shooting, and had 5 assists and only one turnover. Ime Udoka was the only other Blazer in double figures, scoring 11 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Next up for Portland is a game against the Lakers, at the Rose Garden, on Wednesday night. Hopefully Roy will return. Don't expect to see Joel Przybilla back for possibly the rest of the week. I talked to him today and he's still in a tremendous amount of pain, and is having trouble even getting around the house. He took a knee to the groin in the Golden State game, and even though the impact was actually slightly above the very sensative area (I'm trying to paint a picture here), he's had a tremendous amount of swelling, and as I said, lots of pain. He said it won't have lingering effects, and he should be available for possibly the Dallas game on Sunday, and says he plans on making the 4-game road trip back east.

If I get an update on Roy, I'll have it for you after practice on Tuesday.

 
8 Comments:
Motosportz said...

Cool stuff, I like the instant feedback and info on the players. Great web site this year and very much looking forward to seeing what the Blazers can pull off this year. Looks like we have a hard working and coach able team, something that has been missing. Let's cross our fingers they can gel and make some magic happen.

8:02 AM  
Briman said...

I knew something was fishy when I was watching the real time stats and it showed Roy only playing 13 minutes, but I held out hope. Now I am distraught, but will remain optimistic for this young blazer team.

8:25 AM  
Westside Erik said...

One of the side benefits of having NBA league pass is hearing what the other side is saying about you. Like being a fly on the wall. In yesterdays' case however is was almost unbearable. I know L.A. has little love for Portland but it was almost as if Ralph Lawler was giddy over taking jabs at Portland. Ralph, in particular, has endured many many losses at the hands of the Blazers over the years so I'm sure this feels ike redemption time for him. He even managed to throw in a J**lBlazer reference. Ugh. His partner though was a little more basketball saavy and was quick to point out Portland's obvious strengths much to Lawler's chagrin. The in-studio halftime guys actually referred to our team as "bad" and were almost shocked the halftime margin was "only" four. As if the Clips should have been up by thirty.

All in all, I felt like everyone but Zach sort of had the wind knocked out of them when Roy went out. Interesting how he is commanding double teams four whole games into his NBA career. Zach didn't see that until his fourth year.

9:02 AM  
tigerman12 said...

Where to start? Losing Roy for what could be an indefinate period of time, was probably bigger than the loss itself. Considering they were playing small, they hung around. It was the 3-on-1 fastbreak in the 4th, down 9, with Dixon bricking a shot instead of passing off, that decided the final outcome IMO. It led to a fastbreak that pushed the lead into double-digets again.

Sadly, this is a bit of a repeat of last season so far: great game one night and inconsistancy the next. Though they played better than at G.S, Webster, Outlaw, and Dixon just had another up and down game. It seems that they have trouble doing it for 4-5 games in a row. For Portland to progress forward, guys like them need to be more consistant.

We also need to work on transition defense. It seems like every game they get beaten back down the floor at will. I mean 7ft. Kaman went from half-court and laid it up uncontested. Remember Wilcox in the Seattle game? Left Z-bo in the dust.

Got to hand it to Zach. I really feel if he has a great game we will ride his shirttails, but yesterday wasn't one of them.

What was once a strong position, the 5 and now even the 4, has gotten really thin with Joel, Raif, and LaMarcus out. It's a shame really, these guys have worked pretty darn hard, but those are bumps in the road that can be overcome in time. I'm really excited when LaMarcus can come in and show us what he's got. He can get up and down, has a nice mid-range and can play defense. He will be a great talent at our 5 when he inherits the job someday.

Hopefully Roy will be back soon. Go Blazers!

9:44 AM  
Mike Barrett said...

westside erik,

I was a little shocked myself at the things that were said on the broadcast. I certainly hope we don't ever come off that way on the air. Ralph and Mike are very good guys, but I was disappointed with the constant shots at the team, and in particular, the shots at Zach Randolph. They were extremely hard on Zach and Jamaal, and I guess were trying to be funny. It wasn't. It was also disappointing to hear them say that "it's a good thing Nate has a 5-year deal, because that's how long it will take to get this team competitive." I would hope if I ever get that way on the air you guys will bust me on it.

tigerman12,

Good comments. Inconsistency is usually, unfortunately, the mark of a young team. And, with all the injuries, and all the new combinations Nate is being forced to try, it's like they're starting all over again. Hopefully some of these guys will get healthy very soon, and the guys who are able to go are able to weather the storm, because the schedule is about to get very difficult.

MB

10:13 AM  
Briman said...

Just hoping for some kind of Roy update..

4:07 PM  
Blazer Employee said...

When an entity has endured as much weathering as did the Trailblazers, there comes a time to rebuild like that rusty old ‘66 Ford out in the storm shed since the winter of 1988. That’s exactly what the Portland Trailblazers are now in the process of doing.As a 7 year employee of the Trailblazers, I have experienced 7 opening nights at the Rose Garden where the Trailblazers call home. None have been quite as exciting as the most recent opening night game.Brandon Roy, the newest Blazer, promotes a swagger evident only in veterans that have been in the league for more than 5 years. For Roy, 22 years old, it was the first game on the Rose Garden hardwood in his young career. Roy was remarkable, finishing off the game guarding the opposing teams best player in the closing seconds. Roy is the hope, the bright yellow ray of light blinding the disbelievers certain the Portland Trailblazers never will regain the support of the cities faithful.
Roy is the new engine that drives the old 66 Ford that sat in the shed for too long. This is a complete overhaul, a rebuild of a franchise in dire need of a new brand. The jail blazers mantra seemed to be a distant echo, The Trailblazers are now a new brand of character mixed with a winning attitude, a well oiled machine. The Trailblazers are a rebuilt 1966 Ford.

4:14 PM  
akaalias said...

I think Magloire is going to be a great defensive centre and he can also score, I remember his third year with New Orleans when Mashburn and Davis were injured he was the "Go To" averaging 18 points per game. If Portland shows this kid love he'll play his heart out for ya!!

10:31 AM  

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Dixon's Bomb Drops Wolves
posted: 11/4/2006 at 11:08 PM


When Juan Dixon joined me on TV immediately following the 88-86 win over the Timberwolves, he rolled his eyes about the way he had shot the ball at Golden State, and said, "this is what I need to do." Talk about clutch. Dixon was credited, rightly so, with saving the game at Seattle in the first half, and then backs that up in the third game of the regular season with the game-winning three-pointer with 6.2 seconds left. Isn't this the guy who was supposed to find himself out of the rotation this season?

The Blazers wanted to go big against Seattle, and were forced to go small. Then they were outplayed by a small lineup at Golden State on Friday, after the Warriors had gone big early in the game to match them. Saturday night, the Blazers wanted to go big, to match the Timberwolves size, but couldn't. They tried to slow the pace of the game against the Sonics and Warriors, and Saturday night tried to get out and run and speed things up. What we've seen is good coaching. Playing, and winning, different ways. That's the mark of a solid team.

In the Golden State game on Friday, Joel Przybilla took a knee to the mid-section. Guys, you know what I'm talking about. And, while that's happened to most guys, not many have been sent to the couch for three days following it. Joel said what he experienced Friday night, and in the wee hours Saturday morning was the worst pain he's ever been through. He won't play against the Clippers Monday. But, the good news is, it's not an injury that will keep him out more than a week or so.

With no Joel, no Raef LaFrentz, and LaMarcus Aldridge still a couple of weeks away, how would the Blazers combat Minnesota's huge front line? Early, they didn't, and the Timberwolves grabbed a 16-point lead. Kevin Garnett was having his way inside. But, as always seems to happen with this team, they forget how they got their lead, and basically seem to forget about Garnett. He was visibly steamed at several teammates during the second half when he could not get the ball. Following one of Ricky Davis' forced shots with plenty of time on the shot clock, Garnett barked at Davis all the way to the huddle.

Rebounding-wise, it was Travis Outlaw to the rescue. This was easily Travis' best game as a Blazer. He had 18 points, 15 rebounds (6 offensive), 9 of 17 shooting, and just one turnover. When I mentioned in August that Travis would be getting a lot of time at power forward, some of you called me nuts. He showed Saturday that if he sets his mind to it, he can be a force with all that athleticism he possesses. He has the skill to be a Shawn Marion-type rebounder, and is undersized for the position, like Marion.

Brandon Roy was brilliant, once again. Minnesota stuck Trenton Hassell, known as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league, on Roy. Hassell gets some of the credit for holding Brandon to just 4 of 17 shooting from the field, but Roy hurt them in so many other ways. He was consistenly blowing by Hassell, so Minnesota switched to a zone defense with KG at the top, just to slow down the penetration by Roy. Brandon would collapse the defense, and then either get to the line, or hit teammates for open shots. It was his drive that created the open shot for Dixon with 6 seconds left. It was one of 8 assists for Roy. He's single-handedly forcing opposing teams to adjust their defensive game plans to try and stop him.

In the past two games, Roy has 13 assists and 1 turnover. The most impressive part of that is, Roy had never played the point guard position until summer league. He has shown that when the ball is in his hands, things happen. That's why Nate McMillan moved him to the point, like he did in Seattle, late in the game with Minnesota. This has to mean we're going to start seeing more of Roy at the point, running this team. Opposing defenders can't stay with him. This is a rookie we're talking about.

Also, Martell Webster continues to improve. Webster now, on the season, is now 9 for 13 from behind the three-point line. In the last two games, he's 8 for 10 from three. He ended with 16 points, off the bench, and brought Portland back after they had trailed by 16 early in this game.

Keep in mind, this Minnesota team was coming off wins over Sacramento, and Denver. They beat the Nuggets in Denver on Friday. The Blazers were playing the second of a back-to-back as well, as you know. And, it isn't like Minnesota fell apart in this game. They ended up shooting 48 percent, were 12 of 13 at the foul line, and had just 15 turnovers.

The Blazers got rid of the turnover problem on Saturday. They had five turnovers in the first quarter, and ended the game with 10.

We saw again that this team has a fight-and-scrap mentality that will make it tough to beat at home, and we've already seen the ability this team has to win on the road by executing in the final minutes.

The bad news is, the schedule gets much tougher now. The team leaves for L.A. on Sunday, and takes on the Clippers on Monday. Then, it's home against the Lakers, Hornets, and Mavericks. After that, it's a four-game road trip back east, at Minnesota, Cleveland, Boston, and New Jersey. Still, 2 and 1 after three games. I'll take it. I imagine you will to.

 
27 Comments:
Matt said...

Mike, thanks for the recap. I was at the game tonight, and it really did feel like Rip City all over again.

There were so many positives to come out of the game, with Travis and Juan rising to the top. Zach was solid, as well.

Should us fans read much into Jack's lack of playing time down the stretch tonight?

Thanks for the updates.

12:12 AM  
Matt Weber said...

The Blazers are starting this season out way better than I'm sure most people expected. Once I started reading just how low all of the magazines ranked The Team, I knew it was mostly all biased, based on the last couple of seasons. Tonight proved to me what I expect from Portland this season...more wins than losses. The Blazers are going to be (in my opinion) the surprise team of the season. Just remember when Portland makes it to the playoffs in the sixth through eighth spot and surprisingly makes it to the second round or beyond....y'all heard from here first!! Congrats to Travis, B.Roy, and Dix!!

12:29 AM  
TPforThree said...

Great game!! I just wish i could have heard it on kxl.com. I live out of state and I think it's terrible that I can't listen to the game. Is this the way it's going to be all season for Blazer's home games? If so then that is lame. Trying to make people pay just to listen is not a good way to build fan support. I sure hope this will change or it's back to recaps and box scores for me.

But I love this team and loved the way they fought back and showed alot of heart! Hard work pays off and that's what the Blazers are doing. Keep it up, go Blazers!

12:44 AM  
Westside Erik said...

Well I think Outlaw redeemed himself tonight after the way he played against GS. I'm sure he wasn't very pleased with the way he played against them and had someting to prove. He certainly showed a sellout crowd what he is capable of tonight against a superior defender in Garnett. No doubt he's feeling a little better about things now.

Even though we are early in the season, I get a sense that this team legitimately enjoys not only playing together but just simply being together. Trust, confidence, respect, effort, ability, these are words I think of now when I think about the way these players feel about one another. There was a moment after the game when the camera caught Zach smiling from ear to ear as he grabbed Outlaw and gave him a big bear hug. In fact I think the whole team was hugging one another. It's in moments like these where seasons (and seasons to come) are often times defined.

12:49 AM  
Portland Trail Blazers said...

That game was so crazy. I was praying that God wouldn't let me look like a fool at school and that the Blazers would win and be a succesful team. (thanks man)

I lost my voice from cheering so much. I could barely talk after the game but now it's back for the most part. I really like the way Martell is playing. He's a great player. Dixon hit a clutch shot and then KG missed his. I thought we were going into overtime when he shot.

1:37 AM  
goblazers_18 said...

wow this game was just amazing thats all i can say. i have a feeling that the blazers will make it to the playoffs i dont why but i just do. hey mike i saw that article in the rip city magazine about you and the rest of the broadcasters thinking we wont make it to the playoffs, i was shocked! lol That roy is just wonderful. mike if you get a chance can you tell him that Matt says and to keep up the good work and that i am his number 1 fan. have a great night and a safe flight to LA.

2:02 AM  
jerimycoplo1 said...

Mike - would be nice if you got a chance to get some idea of what their plans are for Webster's development and PT. He's playing superbly in limited minutes. His defense (while rookie like; has improved) and he is definitely willing to take it to the hoop this year. Add that to being 19, a high maturity level and 60% three point percentage, I don't see why we would not start him at SF or SG , or at least give him more PT. (run some plays for him). Is it a fear of injuring his back right now...or are we moving away from Webster becoming one of our franchise players in the future?

6:38 AM  
Hap said...

a moment of silence for joels little foulzillas.

7:31 AM  
whoneedsoden said...

What a difference from last year. This team is showing amazing tenacity, and a hunger to win not seen in years. Thanks for giving us something to cheer for guys!

8:19 AM  
Jamey W. said...

What a NIGHT!
It find it hard to remember that much energy...that much screaming and yelling in the Garden for such a long time (it seems).
As i was standing and cheering (screaming really!) mid-way through the 4th quarter...I looked around and EVERY FAN (all the way to the top) was standing and cheering! What a sight!
And when Dixon hit that shot with 6 seconds to go....the place went nuts! There was an elderly woman (at least 70+) screaming...thrusting her fist in the air!
What a sight!
What a game!
What a team!

8:22 AM  
Happy Camper said...

Travis Outlaw... WOW, nuf said

based on performance any team we go against that doesn't have a large imposing center i'd like to see nate try a starting lineup of (1-5) brandon,dixon,martell,travis, and zach. waddya think mike?

9:36 AM  
woodfloor guy said...

Mike,
I was at the game last night, that was a lot of fun! I dont understand though not playing the high pick with Roy and Z-Bo that was so effective against Seattle. I think they should use the Stockton - Malone pick and roll between Roy and Zach. Can you suggest it to the coaches?

9:38 AM  
woodfloor guy said...

Is Magloire another Dale Davis?
Former all star that comes to Portland and all he can seem to do is foul, miss freethrows and turn the ball over?

9:48 AM  
Connor said...

what a beutiful game and an amazing TEAM so far. Brandon Roy didn't have the best shooting night but he showed leadership and poise. Randolph played good considering who he was up against. Outlaw outplayed and rebounded Garnett. He gets better and better. Been a hardcore fan whole life Mike and thanks for these blogs. Oh and Webster is the next Redd

10:33 AM  
DaHotnes said...

I haven't been this excited about a Blazers team since the early 90's. Sure we had the good teams 98-2001 but with all the off the court distractions, I found it hard to fall in love with them.

I was at the game last night, I haven't felt that type of energy at the Rose Garden in quite some time. My friend said to me, "it feels like it's a playoff game in here." I had to agree.

What I love most about this team is they are scrappy, gutty, and full of heart (...did I just say the Blazers have heart?...) Brandon Roy is an absolute stud and Martell Webstar is going to be a household name in the next couple of years. Zach is Zach, and Travis Outlaw played, "Lights Out" last night. Keep that up and a really nice extension will be heading your way.

12:07 PM  
Hodge N. said...

Lifelong fan,
This is what I've been waiting for.I see glimpses of the rip city era.I give all the credit to management and coaching that put together some great trades and picked up two potential allstars in the draft.I can not say enough about the play and leadership of Brandon Roy,Nba watch out for this guy.
Hodge N.

12:32 PM  
Hodge N. said...

This is what I've been waiting for.I've see glimpses of the rip city era.I give all the credit to management and coaching who put together some great trades and picked up two potential allstars in the draft.I can not say enough about the play and leadership of Brandon Roy,Nba watch out for this guy.
Hodge N.

12:34 PM  
Hellosim said...

MIKE you need to put up a sign in the LOCKER ROOM that says "Roaches" and a sigh in the garden!

2:41 PM  
Rey Outlaw said...

First off, being a huge Travis Outlaw fan, I love what he did in the game, and who wouldn't? I remember reading on like FoxSports Online, one of the guys had Travis Outlaw on his All-NBA Worst team. I wonder how much shame he feels or should feel. Travis is bringin' his game this year and you can tell. Maybe he can't shoot 10 ft away, but look at what else he does. Defense, heck, he filled those shoes that Joel wears. Travis could be the best jumper in the NBA. I remember there have been trade rumors involving him. I admit this is one out of 82 games with 79 to go, but if someone can say this is gonna be Travis' best game of the season, good luck on being right.
On another note, THANK YOU JUAN DIXON! Dixon's games are not the best, but if he can shoot at crunch time, let him. I'm serious, I looked at Juan earlier, and I got a feeling that he was gonna be the man for the game, and again... I'm serious. I had a really good feeling about him. Juan, it must be worth losing Steve Blake.
And, how about that crowd... it's like the Clyde, Terry, Buck, Kevin Duckworth etc. era all over again. Travis is Clyde's clone (figuratively) who's getting better still.
I have one last thing to say. If you don't believe Rip City is workin' it's way back our way on I-5, start lookin at the crowds of Blazer fans at ANY game. In this game, there was a fan who held a sign that said "Born Again Blazer Believer." Thank you to all those who didn't have to be a "born again." Rrrrrrrrrrrip City!!

2:45 PM  
Aaron H Bridges said...

The Blazers looked awesome last night: They swarmed on D and maintained motion on offense. Brandon Roy is defniitely going to give opposing defenses a hard time. Hi quickness off the dribble and athleticism near the bucket surprised me a lot. He is definitely ready for the NBA. Best of all, the crowd actually believed in the team. Great job Blazers, lets see if they can pick up a couple against tough teams on the road and we might have a season on our hands.

2:49 PM  
mrblazer said...

Even though i rode Mags about his horrendous play all preseason, i couldn't disagree more with woodfloor guy's assessment. For the first 7 minutes of the 4th quarter, KG got touch after touch and converted only one time. He converted an extremely difficult 3-point play. That was Minnesota's only points in the quarter up to that point. Mags was terrific, defensively.

I never thought i would ever say this (and i can't tell you how serious i am), but Zach played lockdown defense on Kevin Garnett. I was shocked to say the least. He picked up where Mags left off when he came in. Those guys were huge.

I thought Minnesota was well prepared for the game. Their plan was to take Roy, and especially Zach, out of the game. They didn't think anyone else could beat them if they accomplished that. I have a lot of pride for the guys who stepped up and did what Minnesota didn't give them credit for being able to do.
The plan was effective, though. In the 3rd quarter, after Zach started taking over, they fronted him. It took him out of the game, basically. It was scary.
So here's my question, Mike. Is it a matter of Zach fighting even harder for position and hopefully getting calls, or should we be working on lob passes over the defenders for easy buckets. It's a difficult pass, but it hurts teams for cheating so much. How do you think we should handle that situation. Could you ask The Wild One, as well? I'd love to hear what you two think about that situation.

3:18 PM  
mrblazer said...

BTW, Mike, you and Rice have me eating crow. I was one of several that didn't think TO would play at PF much, this season, or at least not well. He played a great second half, last night. After the break, he became a beast. If i'm not mistaken, he played mostly SF in the first half, in which i was thoroughly frustrated with him during. Second half, he was mostly at PF.
If Travis could ever get to the point where he knows what to do without even having to think about it, he could become a very solid player. Power forward is a much easier position, mentally, than SF. So, maybe PF is his position.

Picture me and others who claimed insanity when you and Rice brought up TO at PF on our knees, arms in the air, and bowing while chanting "we're not worthy!"

3:34 PM  
TrueFan said...

I watched the game on TV and during a Blazers' timeout during the final seconds, I saw Jarrett Jack with a solemn, blanck look on his face. You could tell he was probably unhappy with his performance during the game, and that for the second time this season has watched rookie Brandon Roy come into the game and do a better job with the point gaurd spot to lead the Blazers back into the game and come out with a win. How do you think Jarrett feels about not being a factor in late game situations? Will he sulk and lose confidence? Or will this further motivate him to keep working hard and getting better?

By the way Mike, great job with all of your blogs and with the TV broadcast. Blazer fans are lucky to have you with this organization. Keep up the good work!

10:04 PM  
Justin Binning said...

Are you kidding me??? I have been to alot of big sporting events and countless Blazer games, but never one with the emotional feeling of this game. From the starting 5 to the bench and to the 6 man of Portland.....the fans. The fans deserved this win and the Blazers provided. I was high fiving people behind me, in front of me, everyone!!!! The cheering didn't stop in the packed Rose Quarter, it was a cheering frenzy in the corridors, stairwells, outside, and even on the max train. It was amazing and even if only for the night Portland has not, Lost That Lovin Feeling!!! GO BLAZERS

9:17 AM  
woodfloor guy said...

I think my earlier posts may have come off as a bit negative, not displaying the actual excitement i feel about this years team.
I took all the preseason hype with a grain of salt, and wanted to make my own appraisement of the new players....well after watching the first 3 games, Roy is all that he was built up to be. Even more than his play meking skills, I am totally impressed with his understanding of the game of basketball. I dont think I have said that about a Blazer in many years, other than Sabonis.
I am inpressed with Ime's solid play, great defense, nice shot and his ability to come away with a rebound when it is needed.
I cannot fail to mention the attitude that Juan is bringing to this season. I had long thought the days of real proffesional players and quality people on the Portland squad were a thing of the distant past. These 3, and others, are truly refreshing. To now have quality players who want to contribute within the roles given them gives this team a real cohesiveness that we havent seen in a long time. Good job Blazer brass and thank you for listening to the fans and giving us a team we can once again be proud to back.

12:30 PM  
Felix Gerena said...

Perhaps it sounds a bit off topic but I would like to tell something about Sergio. After he played his first minutes in the NBA he said it could not have been better. He played two minutes...

He is having some difficulties adapting to the NBA, but he has the talent,and if he puts the commitment and the discipline that it takes, something good should emerge from that.

Great job, Blazers! It is good to see the play of Travis and Martell. This is anticipatory of good times coming.

2:39 PM  
Bryan said...

Roy is great, this team is coming together, Outlaw is waking up, Webster is moving on up, and we still haven’t seen our nos. 2 pick in the draft play yet.

Wow

2:53 PM  

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KG and the Hot Wolves in Town
posted: at 10:32 AM


It was a late night for the Trail Blazers (and broadcasters, by the way) following the loss to Golden State Friday night in Oakland. But, everyone will find their energy very quickly when they're welcomed to the court tonight by a sold-out Rose Garden crowd.

Just a couple of thoughts on the loss to Golden State. Everything we previewed, and everything we talked about went out the window in the early minutes of the game. That happens sometimes. For some reason, Don Nelson started a big, slow, lineup against Portland. This played right into the Blazers' hands, and they built a quick 9-point lead. Once Mickael Pietrus was put in the lineup for the Warriors, things started shaking out more the way we thought they would.

To the Blazers' credit, they withstood most of the big runs the Warriors threw at them in the second half, and stayed within shouting distance until the closing minutes. Still, if you would have said before the game that Jason Richardson would end with 8 points, and Baron Davis would be held to 17, you would have thought Blazers win. It was Golden State's bench that provided the spark- not only Pietrus, but also Monta Ellis, who's looked very impressive in the first two for the Warriors. He had 22 against the Lakers, and 15 against the Blazers. Not bad for the 40th pick of the draft two years ago. And, by the way, he's only 20.

While flying home late last night (got in after 1:30 am, by the way), we were talking and had to admit that splitting the first two games was very acceptable. If you're a team battling to get to the 35-40 win mark, the old rule is win at home, and split on the road. That leads us to tonight's game.

Minnesota, for good reason, was just about totally overlooked in pre-season playoff predictions. They were not considered to be a contender, even though they made a couple of key changes in the off-season. I'm not talking about Randy Foye, who will be good in time, but won't get much time early in the season. The biggest change was adding Mike James. James comes with a little baggage, but will be huge for this team. He was a big part of Minnesota pulling the upset in Denver last night, 112-109.

When scanning the box score of the Timberwolves' win, you might be asking yourself, who the heck is Craig Smith? Whoever he is, he had 20 points last night on 10 of 15 shooting. He was the 36th pick of the draft last summer, and is a rookie out of Boston College. The amazing part is, he actually got 15 shots up. How in the world does a rookie (not named Foye) get 15 shots when he's competing for the ball with James, KG, Ricky Davis, and Troy Hudson? If he wasn't on the Blazers' scouting report before last night (and I'm sure he wasn't), he is now.

The game tonight will be televised on KGW-8 in the Portland area, and on the Trail Blazers Television Network. Wheels and Tone will have it on the radio. See you tonight.

 
4 Comments:
Rob said...

Hi Mike, a few notes:

Craig Smith could always play. He was a great forward for BC for 4 years, scouts just thought he was undersized for the NBA at his position. So was Adrian Dantley. He can really play, I'm glad to see he's being given a chance.

The Blazers combination of mediocre shooting and poor possession management last night killed them. Zach needs touches in the post. When he gets them, the whole team plays better. If they can keep their turnovers under 15 tonight, they give themselves an excellent shot to win. Hopefully Martell can play more minutes, he was a bright spot last night.

2:12 PM  
Mark said...

I don't think the Blazers have to worry too much about Minnesota getting out and running all game long. With that said, this should play right into Portland's hands. I am also wondering why Dickau isn't getting more minutes? We need to keep Roy at the 2 spot. I can understand letting Roy play PG maybe in the later stages of the game, but give little Danny some minutes already! As much as we'd LOVE to see Webster play more, don't forget people that it's very early in the season and need to take precaution with his back. We don't need him playing a ton of minutes when he isn't 100%. I'd rather get Martell completely healthy and have him play the last 3/4 of the season completely healthy.

Portland needs to take more time with their possessions and not hurry shots. Make Minnesota play defense for 15-20 seconds every time down the floor.

4:22 PM  
blazerfan3 said...

Blazers 97 Wolves 95

4:26 PM  
woodfloor guy said...

Mike,
I was a bit dissapointed that the blazers didnt use the pick and role last night that was so effective against Seattle. I think the combination of Roy and Zach working the p&r together could be nearly as deadly as Stockon and Malone.
Doesnt Nate see the potential? I would keep going to that play and make the other team try to stop it.
The Jazz were almost unstopable when they ran that play.

4:31 PM  

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Warriors Next Up for Blazers --UPDATED
posted: 11/2/2006 at 10:44 PM



****An update for you. I just got back from Trail Blazers shootaround. Raef LaFrentz will be placed on the inactive list for tonight's game, and Sergio Rodriguez will be activated. Raef is still battling a calf injury, and re-aggravated it Thursday at practice. He sat out shootaround.
Also interesting, George Dorhmann from Sports Illustrated was at shootaround and is doing a piece on Ime Udoka. He told me it will run in next week's issue. He was sitting down with Ime as I left, and plans to interview coach McMillan after the game tonight. It'll be a one-page feature that will run right next to Scorecard in the front of the magazine.
Martell Webster, in an effort to loosen up his back, climbed into the pool, which was right next to the basketball court, right after shootaround. He said he didn't mind if I snapped a photo of him. Assistant coach Dean Demopoulos stuck his head in the door moments later and said to Martell, "what, are you a fish now?"****



The Trail Blazers used their off-day in the Bay Area to practice, and get set to take on the Golden State Warriors. The game will be televised on FSN on Friday night. The broadcast begins at 7:30, and they'll tip it off at 7:35. The game will, of course, also be on the radio, with Brian Wheeler and Antonio Harvey calling the action on the Trail Blazers Radio Network.

The Blazers held their practice at the Warriors practice facility in Oakland Thursday afternoon. They had planned to practice at Cal-Berkely, but had a last-minute change, and ended up at the Warriors' facility. Following Wednesday night's big win at Seattle, the team had plenty of energy, and was in a good mood at practice. They've got a big challenge in front of them Friday night.

The Warriors held their home opener on Wednesday night, and were beaten by the Lakers 110-98. Kobe sat it out once again, but still the Lakers cruised. They held an 18-point lead at one point in the third quarter. The Warriors were beaten up in the local media, which called it a "dreadful loss." In the game recap in the San Fransisco Chronicle, the third paragraph read, "Golden State opened its season with a 110-98 thud against the Lakers, and game one of the new Don Nelson era looked very much like games 1 through 82 of the Mike Montgomery regime."

After the loss to the Lakers, Nelson was quoted as saying, "It was the first time in my coaching career that I didn't know what to do. Whatever I did, whatever I tried, was wrong." Nelson even said Troy Murphy was "terrible," and Mike Dunleavy was "a disaster." Golden State was led by second-year player Monta Ellis, who scored 22 points in 22 minutes. A good game for him, but when he's leading this team in scoring, it's not a good thing.

What does all of this mean? The Warriors are going to be looking at the game against Portland as a "must win." They've got playoff hopes (again) and with a three-game road trip beginning after Friday's game, can not afford another performance like the one they had against the Lakers. The Blazers had better be ready. Baron Davis, who scorched Portland in the pre-season, will be out for blood.

In the two games the Blazers played against the Warriors in the pre-season, Davis had huge games, as coach Nelson went small. The Blazers saw plenty of that on Wednesday in Seattle, so they should be ready for it.

There are big questions going into the game. How will Zach Randolph handle the certain double teams he's going to draw? Will Jarrett Jack be able to successfully handle Davis? And, can Brandon Roy match his opening-night performance in Seattle? Travis Outlaw will have to be good again as well, as he'll be a key coming off Portland's bench.

On the broadcasting front, the radio show, Trail Blazers Courtside, was on Thursday night. With us out of town, the show was hosted by Jay Allen and former Blazer Michael Holton. Nate McMillan joined the show right out of the gate, and talked about the Seattle win, and what's ahead on Friday. To hear the interview with Nate, click here.

In Antonio Harvey's segment, he interviewed Ime Udoka. The interview took place on the plane late Wednesday night following the win over Seattle. To hear "Off the Court with Tone," click here. Yes, there was the second "Rice's Rant" of the season, and he did it live on the phone. To hear that, click here.

The guys also did a preview of the home opener on Saturday, and for that they interviewed Minnesota Timberwolves TV analyst Jim Petersen. He talked about Minnesota's opening-night win over Sacramento, and talked about their game on Friday at Denver. To hear the Petersen interview, click here. The Blazers, of course, will be facing a back-to-back with Golden State Friday, and Minnesota Saturday. The Wolves have the game at Denver, and that's never an easy game to bounce back from. They'll be arriving in Portland probably about the same time we will, in the wee hours Saturday morning.

Well, it worked Wednesday, and we're all about karma, so I'll ask you again. Got any predictions for the game against the Warriors?

 
17 Comments:
Rob said...

The Blazers outrebounded the Sonics 40-34 and kept their turnovers below 15 (just barely, with 14). And we won.

None of the Warriors starters shot well against the Lakers, but there's no reason to expect them to shoot that poorly from the field two games in a row.

We can beat them if they keep them off the offensive boards (especially Murphy, Biedrins, and Diogu), aren't extraordinarily sloppy with our possessions, have another respectable shooting night, and limit the Warriors threes. If the Blazers shoot better than 45%, have less than 18 turnovers, and the Warriors get fewer than 12 offensive boards and ten three point baskets, we win.

We're a young team and are going to make mistakes. But these guys don't have any quit in them, which as a fan is great to see.

12:00 AM  
BLZSfaninEugene said...

I never thought it was possible, but Mike Barrett had an error. The pregame is at 6:30. Besides that great insight Mike.
I'm excited for the first game and can't wait to go to the game. My father lives in Portland, and I'm coming up from Eugene (by train) to watch the Blazers from the 300 level.
I really enjoy Holton he is not as raw as Antonio Harvey-hope he does not read this- but he always knows what to say and when to say it.
Roy did look like a vetern out there on Wednesday, but McMillian played him very heavy mins. I hope that isn't too much of a bad thing when the first 30 games are under his belt.
Thanks for the insight Mike. Go TrailBlazers!

12:29 AM  
Mike said...

I'll say Blazers 112, Warriors 102.

1:11 AM  
mrblazer said...

There are a lot of ways the blazers can win or lose this game, and plenty of opportunities for both scenarios. Nelson coached teams are always pitiful, defensively. His defensive strategies make Blazer Dancer drills look like they were designed by the Marlboro Man. As a player for Nelson, you're instructed to reserve all effort toward defending the hole for post-game showers and interviews; when you're otherwise screwed if you don't.
However, once they get the ball, the Warriors change out of their skirts and ballet shoes and do a very good job of getting the ball in the bucket. They have a lot of offensive talent and can be very difficult to stop. Baron Davis and Jason Richardson are peticularly nasty.
I think the outcome will come down to two areas: Blazer transition defense and outside shooting. I hope Martell is nearly full strength, or better, because we could use his ability to shoot and score. We'll certainly see plenty of open looks, and if we can knock them down, we'll have a good chance for a victory. I'll go ahead and predict a win for the road team.

1:59 AM  
Mark said...

I think you meant pre game starts at 6:30, not 7:30. Anyways, I see this being another high scoring game. Can Portland pull off another win on the road? Being 2-0 and going back home will give Portland a ton of confidence against Minnesota. Even though the T-Wolves and Blazers will be arriving in Portland around the same time in the wee hours of the morning, that's always a plus for the home team!

Good luck at Golden State and make it two in a row baby!

2:30 AM  
D Buscho said...

I predict I'll have fun watching the game tonight.

I also predict someone will get thrown out of the game, Travis will posterize someone (prob Murphy), and B-Roy will go for over 25.

Okay fine, Blazers 93 GS 92.

Hey Mike, is T.O.(Outlaw) interested in the dunk competition this year? How do players get picked?

8:49 AM  
The Sports Sponge said...

I don't think enough with JJ has changed between the 2 preseason games and the game tonight. Stopping Davis not onlyr from scoring but from dishing out assists is the key to breaking the Warriors.

It will be up to the rest of the team to hold down the rest of the supporting cast.

I expect Davis to get the better of JJ. I think Roy will shut down an already rusty Jason Richarson.

The Blazers winning or losing will come down to how well the rest of the team defense is because Davis is going to get his.

G-
R.O.Y.

8:50 AM  
Mike Barrett said...

Sorry about the earlier error in airtime for the game tonight. My second turnover in two days. Good thing my assist level is still up.

rob,

Good comment about the team not having any quit in them. Last week someone commented that Seattle would be the first team to find out that Portland is very tough to beat. Sounded simple, but it was correct.

blazerfanineugene,

Enjoy the train. You're leaving Eugene when the Ducks are playing Washington? That's a Blazer fan.

mrblazer,

You're dead on about outside shooting being key. It's amazing to me how good the shooting percentages have been for Portland, not only in the pre-season, but in Seattle on Wednesday. Got to keep it up tonight.

d buscho,

You could be right about someone getting thrown out tonight. Sheed has already been tossed, and Carmelo got ejected last night. The odds on favorite tonight would be Don Nelson, if the Warriors play like they did on Wednesday. I wish they had played better against the Lakers. They're going to be tough to beat tonight. Hopefully Baron Davis tries to do too much on his own again. That's what happened Wednesday.

sports sponge,

you're right about the key matchup. Can Jarrett slow down Davis, and get his own in the process.

I'm off to shootaround. Talk to you on TV later.

MB

9:56 AM  
TP43 said...

This one has bounce-back written all over it. My heart says Blazers but my head says Warriors.

They're going to force us to shoot from the outside all night and we're going to struggle connecting. We had so many terrific performances in Seattle, there's no way we get that many on back to back games. Color me bummed, Warriors win.

11:34 AM  
Happy Camper said...

portland 116, warriors 115

2:31 PM  
Briman said...

Hey Mike... Who are the Blazers Captains??

2:36 PM  
ltg said...

Hey Mike, hey Blazer fans. I have a prediction: the Warriors win this one, however, it is a very close one. They will be out to sink us tonight..but the Blazers wont be intimidated..we will meet them head on. In the end I give it to the Warriors. I hope of course I am dead wrong.

4:44 PM  
tigerman12 said...

Well, if the Warriors go small, see a repeat of the Sonic game. Randolph will eat them alive. Roy won't be nervous early like he was Wednesday. My only fear is that they revert back to last season and seesaw up and down. I really don't think they will, but I hope they learned a few things from game 1: Randolph in the post, hustle, pass the ball, smart substitution, and fire......lots of fire. Please get back on defense.

6:24 PM  
Hellosim said...

man I dislike FSNW the sonics get a pregame show but the Blazers dont! Oregon needs its own sports channel! I am tired of the Seattle bias!

7:04 PM  
blazerfan3 said...

Blazers 100 Warriors 98

7:23 PM  
Hap said...

shozbot.

MB, why didn't Martell play more? His back still not back to 100% yet?

His outside shooting would've done a lot more for the team than Graham (who didn't play bad, but surely didn't play good) or Ime (same) and especially Travis.

oh well, considering i expected them to be 0-3 after 3 games, I'll take 1-2 or 2-1.

I just hope the poor play was just a 1 game thing.

10:41 PM  
Portland Trail Blazers said...

I have a question you may be able to answer. Why is Dan not playing? Our only point playing is Jack and Roy should really be playing SG I think. Dan Dickau hit that 3 in final minutes of the Golden State game. Play him!

Also why did Graham get more minutes than Webster but produce less? (I will answer this question) because Martell is better! Martell is better than Travis, better than Graham, better than Miles (I think), better than Ime, and close to Roy. Our first game he didn’t have excellent shooting but he was forced to shoot some of those shots because of time. He had rebounds and you might agree he is the hardest worker we have and is more serious about improving than anyone. Our second game he played 16 and made 4/5 three pointers. Now this may only be an opinion but I think that's good. Martell really needs to play more rather than Graham, Udoka, and Outlaw. Although I still like everyone on the team but I think Martell is starting SF or 6th man quality. Dan should be coming in for Jack.

It also seems to me that if Travis gets off to a bad start that’s how the rest of the night goes for him. Do you think that is true most of the time?

I hope that doesn’t sound too negative. We had better ball movement against the Warriors than I’ve ever seen. We just need to start knocking down shots. I think part of it has to do with players rushing their shots (maybe). I’m also glad our FT% is not only acceptable, it’s exceptional. Joel can also be a part of our offense, why don’t we just feed him the ball for an easy dunk? I bet the defense doesn’t pay a whole lot of attention to him when Zach is down low.
I would appreciate your thoughts on what I’ve been writing about.

11:27 PM  

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What a Start
posted: at 9:37 AM


There was no wild celebration in the Trail Blazers locker room last night. There were just some handshakes, high fives, and a few mild fist pumps. The bus ride to the airport in Seattle almost quieter than usual. During our late-night flight to San Fransisco, the team watched our TV broadcast of the game, and ate dinner. Several times I walked toward the back of the plane, and you really wouldn't have known if the Trail Blazers had just won or lost. The maturity and poise we saw on the floor Wednesday night, continued long into the night. 110-106, was the final.

I'm not sure you could have drawn up a better start for the Trail Blazers. We talked in the pre-game show about how difficult it could be for a young team like the Blazers, to open the season not only on the road, but against their long-time rival. Plus, it was a homecoming for Brandon Roy, as you know, and he was playing in front of family, friends, former coaches, and a ton of Washington Husky fans. The table was certainly set for Portland to be intimidated, nervous, and overwhelmed. They were anything but, despite falling down to the Sonics by 12 points early in the game.

Now, Roy was fabulous, and all of the stories will mention how he got his Rookie of the Year campaign off to a great start. Zach Randolph was also very solid, and backed up all those claims I've been making about him for the past three months (best shape of his career, dedicated, out to prove something, ect.). But, here's a fact. The Blazers don't win the game if Juan Dixon doesn't come to the rescue of the first unit in the second quarter. Dixon was phenominal, and totally turned the tide. He keyed a 16-0 Portland run that not only got them back into the game, but got them believing. He also nailed some huge shots down the stretch, when Seattle was threatening to pull away for good. Dixon ended with 18 points, on 8 of 10 shooting, in 23 minutes. That's what you need off the bench. He's a lighter version of Vinny Johnson. The mini-microwave, if you will. Because he came into the game firing, and willing to put the team on his back, the Blazers get the win.

Now, on to Roy. I grabbed Brandon for the TV interview immediately following the game, and he was thrilled, but composed. He acknowledged being very nervous before the game, but said things settled down for him quickly. If you ever wanted to see the results of a player going to college for four years, and playing in a big-time program, look at Roy. His maturity, basketball IQ, and confidence, has already made him a leader on this team. Roy had 20 points, on 10 of 16 shooting. The one basket that sticks out the most to me is the one he hit in the fourth quarter, at the shot clock buzzer. Roy gave the ball to Randolph, who glanced at the clock, noticed the defenders near him, and gave it right back to Roy. Brandon calmly drilled a long jumper, as the buzzer sounded (pictured above). I liked the quote from Seattle's Rashard Lewis, talking about Roy after the game. "He's a great player." Usually you say going to be a great player, when talking about rookies.

As for Randolph, he was doubled every time he touched the ball, as usual. He started the game 1 for 6, and was struggling. But, kept his head, began passing the ball, and the shots started to fall. When they didn't, he usually got to the foul line. Coach McMillan has been harping on Zach to get in the low post and stay there. I can only recall two shots Zach took from the perimeter. Everything else was down in the paint, where you need two healthy knees to handle the punishment that's delivered. Zach is healthy now, and you saw a result of that in this game. Z-Bo had 30 points (8-18 fg), 10 rebounds, and was 14 for 15 at the free throw line.

How big was Ime Udoka in his first NBA start? The Blazers don't win the game without his two huge offensive rebounds in the final minutes. The biggest one coming with 30 seconds left, and came off a Travis Outlaw free-throw miss. Ime was fouled, and hit two free throws, making it a 3-point trip for Portland. He also played lock-down defense on Rashard Lewis in the second half.

In a game that didn't feature the big guys much, because Seattle went so small, Jamaal Magloire looked as good as he has in a Blazer uniform, showing a little offense, along with some big-time rebounding. Joel Przybilla had a couple of big blocked shots. And, Travis Outlaw had a great 24 minutes. He had 9 points and a couple of rebounds, and several big hustle plays. No doubt, Travis is better off the bench.

Turnovers were a problem for the Blazers, through three quarters. They had 9 in the first half, but only 16 for the game. Most importantly, they didn't turn the ball over at all in the final 5:05 of the game.

Following the game, as expected, reporters gathered around Roy to get his thoughts. He's also a tremendous interview, and is very well liked by the Seattle press, obviously. There were several great stories about Brandon in the papers Tuesday, leading up to the game. On the front page of the Seattle P.I, there was a large photo of Brandon at a high school football game in Portland, being mobbed by kids.

All the Blazer players have attended high school football games in the past few weeks. They've been great events. Last Friday night, at the invitation of the head coach at Grant, Darius Miles was invited to the big Grant-Lincoln football game. The vice principal at Lincoln, asked Darius to work the press box and hospitality suite. Contrary to a report that stated Miles was asked to leave the press box, representatives have stated he was there at their request. The only confusion came in the hospitality suite, when a couple of Blazer employees, who were accompanying Darius, were not allowed in. Miles left with the employees, and they went into the crowd, where he signed countless autographs, and watched the game. Lincoln officials later apologized for the confusion. It was a great event, as all of the football appearences were.

A reminder that on opening night, Saturday against Minnesota, $2 bucks from every single-game ticket sold will go to the P.I.L. sports league.

Back to the flight to San Fransisco. We didn't get settled in our hotel until about 3 am, which is not unusual. The team will practice today on the campus of Cal-Berkely, and will get set for the game on Friday against Golden State. Upon hearing they were practicing at Cal, Roy said, "Oh, I know that gym." Of course he does.

 
13 Comments:
Hap said...

For the first time in (far too many) years, we have a SG who I think we can feel confident in making the right decision, and actually hitting the jumper.

Thats not to say he'll finish the season shooting 62% from the floor, score 20 points and hit clutch shots. But I think we finally have a SG who you can go get the ball to him, and not cringe.

I know that having drafted high schoolers for the last 10 years we kind of forgot what it's like to have a much more mature player, but wow...there's no way he was only a rookie in his 1st ever regular season game last night.

If Zach can play like he did last night (doesn't even have to average 30-10...22-9 would be nice), he could go a long way in repairing his damage image (of which is mostly his own doing).

Lets hope they don't let us down (as in revert to old habits) against the Warriors.

11:18 AM  
Happy Camper said...

I'm still cheering. While everyone seems to be talking about Roy for some reason I wasn't surprised. It would be totally unfair to expect that kind of performance from Brandon, it may be nothing more than faith, but I did. Ime, Zach, Travis, and Mags are the ones i found myself in surprise from. Udoka isn't just shok from solid play last night, but more a lack of loosing the shock he has proven throughout the preseason up to and including last night. Best said by Antonio- "Udoka represents everything that is right about the NBA". Zach was the most pleasent surprise of the game. He may have done what we really can be expecting him to do, but i'm sure i wansn't the only one expecting him not to. Because of last night's continous effort (Highlighted by twice being first on the floor for -and recovering- loose balls), his quick correction of offensive focous by getting back in the key after an initial few jump shots, and the support he vocally and visually showed his team while on the bench i'm forgetting about him being late for the first pre-season game and want to let him know that kind of effort will place me solidly right back in his support as a fan. Travis for some reason i was expecting to choke, but instead he continued to show not only what he can be, but what he is starting to become. Mags after demonstrating nothing in the preseason to cause me to think anything of him than a good salary cap descision played consistantly solid. His continued play throughout the season like shown last nigh will be an important peice of an expected league's worst team raising a whole lot of eye brows this season. last night I didn't see a greatly improved 30-35 win team, I saw a 500+ ballcub.

Go Blazers!

12:28 PM  
The Sports Sponge said...

I have so many things I want to say that I don't know where to begin. How about here.............WOW! That game really showed me a lot!

Roy was Great. Z-bo was Great. Juan was Great. Ime was Great. JJ was Great. The rest of the team did everything else and even that was great. Right down to the support of the guys on the bench.

One thing that stood out was how much respect Roy is getting from his team mates. When Randolph gave him that ball back to hit the shot clock beater I had to pick my jaw up off the floor! I'm still finding it hard to remember not only is he a rookie but, this was his FIRST GAME!!!

The other thing I noticed it that there was a team on that bench and on that floor. Not a group of individuals, but a team! How long has it been since we could say that?! I know it was only one game, but if the season is only half of what we saw last night it would be more than successful.

Give them a rousing applause from the 'Couve!

G-
R.O.Y.

12:36 PM  
Briman said...

I believe it was Travis Outlaw that missed the free throw that Udoka was able to get the clutch rebound, not Jack.

12:50 PM  
orwa said...

Mike, is it possible to get a podcast of the Courtside show?

That would be GREAT!

2:52 PM  
mrblazer said...

I'm proud of the team. They got the win, together. Zach and Roy were amazing, but like you said, without Dixon the game would have been over by halftime. Quick told Dixon he was being phased out in Portland. I really wish that guy was back on his 90 day suspension.
I really liked Nate's game plan and rotation. I thought it was fair. Raef came in, first, instead of Mags. Mags played his best game as a blazer, and i was encouraged. But, i'm glad Nate is showing him he'll have to earn his PT like everyone else.
I'm just happy to see the rotation tighten up and us going after some victories. Nate coached to win. After the necessities of last season and this preseason, it was refreshing to see him really go after something more than a moral victory. I bet no one was more happy to be playing to win than Nate.
The sequence i liked most and think captured the key to this season involved Zach. I've mentioned how Zach's passing opens up opportunities for him. No better example of that came when he was doubled and hit Ime for a 3. The Sonics were reluctant to double the next time down, and he ended up abusing his single defender for a hoop and a free throw. That's how the game is supposed to be played.

PS It was TO's missed free throw that Ime rebounded.

3:05 PM  
MadDogg said...

Wow. It's all I could think to say last night as I watched Brandon Roy's 4th quarter play. He was the total package right when we needed him. Handling the ball, shooting, playing defense. I've never seen a blazer rookie contribute that much in their first game. If the marketing department has any sense they'll plaster the city with Roy's face, and make sure he knows where his new home is. GO BLAZERS.

3:08 PM  
Mike Barrett said...

Good catch on the mistake. It was T.O's missed FT that Ime grabbed. I'm going to watch the game in my hotel room again tonight. It's certainly the kind that's fun to watch again.

mrblazer,

Good point on Zach's passing. The fact that our perimeter guys were hitting, made it difficult for Seattle to double Zach late. That's when he went to work and either got shots, or got fouled. Getting Wilcox to foul out was big.

Hap,

Sorry I haven't gotten back to you on those questions you sent me a month ago. I just found those the other day. I will get them to you. You're correct about the benefits of drafting a four-year college guy. And, Brandon is such a good guy off the floor, it's scary. The ovation he got from the Seattle fans to start the game was incredible. He laughed later when they stopped cheering him, and said, "they started realizing that I'm the opposition now."

Great comments by all. Keep them coming.

3:20 PM  
tigerman12 said...

I got to hand it to the team, yes team, in every way possible. They looked focused and played with passion. That's what it's going to take for the team to keep winning.

Thumbs up for Z-bo. In the first half of the first quarter, he was pathetic: ill advised long-jumpers and poor defense. It was no coincidence that we came back when he sat down. McMillian fortunately steered him back to reality and got him back into the paint where he was nearly unstoppable. I really enjoyed seeing his support of the guys during the time-outs.

Travis and Juan off the bench were superb. Juan has taken to his role like a professional. If Travis can play with the energy and passion like he did Wednesday, he will undoubtedly earn more minutes.

Ime is a great story and you can't help but root for the guy. He's earning the fans hearts every day.

Roy for Gov? Why not? I never thought I could cheer for a Dawg before, but he's earned my respect. He's so polished and in control. He will own this city sooner than later. Everyone talks about him the team in nothing but positive praises. Win or lose, we finally have a team to support.

3:32 PM  
Hap said...

No problem MB, altho it was several months ago that I sent them..

I just figured you had slightly better things to do. You know, like everything else you had to do.

Forgot to mention, it was great to have games on TV again. And I tried to mention this on the 5th quarter but I don't think it made it through, it's great to have Michael Holton back in the "family".

3:41 PM  
Blazertown said...

What a great game! It's a good day to be a Blazer's fan. I am proud of how this team scrapped and fought their way to a victory. I saw a countless number of great hustle plays last night. And I think Nate outcoached Bob Hill and his former team. It seems that Nate pushed all the right buttons in that game. I thought the playing rotation was perfect, he made the right substitutions at the right time, called the right plays, zone defense when Ray Allen was out etc. It shows why Nate is an olympic coach, because he is one of the best coaches in the world.

Go Blazers!!

3:53 PM  
Westside Erik said...

Barrett I'll bet you were probably the most excited Blazer fan watching last night-live or T.V. The way you screamed "Blazers Win!" after that last Randolph rebound a'la Jerry Remy when the Sox finally beat the Yankees or Cosell after Ali beat Frazier, "DOWN GOES FRAZIER! DOWN GOES FRAZIER!" I loved it! But that's what we love about you, your just as big a fan (if not bigger) as the rest of us. Good times all around.

Great way to start the season for sure. I'll see you at the home opener. I'll be a few rows back and will come and stop by to say hey.

8:40 PM  
The Back Judge said...

Why no mention of Jarrett Jack? Even though he didn't post astounding numbers, he had a solid game (13 pts 6 reb 6 ast). He played 44 minutes, which I think is evidence of his importance. His presence on the floor really sets the tone defensively.

9:29 PM  

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