The Portland Trail Blazers waxed the Washington Wizards at the Moda Center today, walking away with a 123-88 victory to even their season record at 38-38. Toumani Camara scored 23 points to pace the Blazers and Will Riley led the Wizards with 14.
Player of the Game
There were several contenders for this distinction, but Camara gets the nod for an impactful combination of offense and defense. His numbers were solid: 28 minutes, 23 points, 4 for 9 from the three-point line and 3 steals. But the numbers were only part
of the story. When this guy is rolling, the joy in his game starts to spread across his team.
Another great candidate? Scoot Henderson, who got his fourth start today. Another Blazer with a lot of pep in his step on both ends of the court: 21 points, 7 assists and only 2 turnovers.
Stat of the Day
Turnovers have been drawing concern among the Blazers faithful this season, but they were not a significant factor this time around (14 for the Blazers, 15 for the Wizards). What did matter? The Blazers were the better team from distance, shooting 12 of 36 for 33% compared to 5 of 22 for 23%. They also won the battle of the boards 49-39, usually a successful combination. Sure worked well in this one!
What We Noticed
The Blazers tried a new starting lineup today: Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara and Donovan Clingan. By the end of the frame, five more Blazers had entered the fray. The result: a 24-15 Blazers lead. Don’t be surprised to see the same starting group next time out.
Unfortunately, the injury worm has turned on the Blazers again. Jerami Grant, Shaedon Sharpe, and Vit Krejci were all unable to play today, and their availability for the post-season action looming ahead soon is critical. The prognosis? Nobody knows nuthin’.
Up Next
The Blazers head out to Los Angeles Tuesday for a playoff-preview showdown with the Los Angeles Clippers. Game time is 8 p.m. Pacific.
