Another Reason to Rejoice
by Dave on Apr 25, 2010 12:28 AM PDT
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The short-term effect of yesterday's win is obvious: series tied 2-2, Game 6 forced, Blazers stave off all-but-certain elimination. That's plenty enough--exactly enough--for now. But Saturday's win was beautiful for more reasons than the immediate. You know how for the last couple of years we've been talking and debating about the value of "playoff experience"? That game was it. That is a game the Blazers will circle and remember in coming years. Portland may not win this series--probably won't, in fact--but they just left the launching pad and rocketed into viable-team status with that victory. In the long run that may be more important.
What was so special about this game? It wasn't just that they won it, but how, when, and with whom. They won a game against a good opponent...a team that had been showing them up, challenging their pride, dancing and laughing on the Blazers' own court. They didn't win the game just for pride's sake, however. It really meant something in the series. Phoenix did not want to lose this game. This was their clincher. The Blazers were reeling, teetering over the precipice. They pulled themselves together, swung back, and won a meaningful contest against the same guys who were dominating them 48 hours prior.
The Blazers won in a fashion that transcends the boundaries of a single contest. They didn't play the perfect game. They didn't take everything away from their opponents. In fact for much of the game Phoenix found success preying on Portland's weaknesses. But the Blazers took away enough, limited critical facets of the Suns' attack at critical times while sustaining their own. This wasn't a knockout punch to the head. This was a give and take of body blows and then the Blazers, seeing an opening, going for a double-leg takedown, and forcing the Suns to submit. That's going to be a useful playoff pattern no matter what the opponent and no matter what the year.
The Blazers won with hustle, with rebounding, with ball movement, with brains and with physicality. They kept their cool no matter which way the whistles blew. They took care of the ball. This wasn't a fluke, hot shooting, a lucky bounce. This win was based on basic, repeatable playoff tenets.
Most of all the Blazers found their confidence after getting rattled. It would not have been surprising to see Phoenix bowl them over again. It would not have been surprising for Portland to come out with a great quarter or great half and then fold once the pressure got high. When Jason Richardson started hitting threes in the third period every observer in the place said, "Uh oh. Here we go again." When Amare Stoudemire started attacking the rim in the fourth and Portland was powerless to stop him the fearful chorus rose again. All of the recent evidence pointed to this being the point that Portland broke. Playoff scripts often run just so...the inferior team makes their last grand push but the superior team catches them after the wave has passed and collects another win. The Blazers did not let that happen. They categorically refused to live with that "inferior" label, to bow down to the obvious outcome, to give up on a game or a season without a fight.
These are the critical lessons a team learns on their way to playoff success. How amazing to see them all flower in the same game. How tantalizing to project that same attitude and confidence carried by a mature, healthy, amazingly talented team in a couple years...a time when we'll not just be talking about taking games but taking series, and maybe more. Battered and broken, cracked to the core and laid open before the world, you just saw the heart that will one day take the Blazers everywhere they want to go. You can circle Saturday, April 24th, 2010 as the day our boys grew up and became men. They saw what they needed to do, they did it, and they refused to let anyone stop them. Welcome to your future.
--Dave (blazersub@yahoo.com)
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I like it.
We’re all still hoping we take the series though. Why wait a couple years?
Bring the bling to Rip City, Natch'
Trade John Canzano!
by richardb on Apr 25, 2010 12:33 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
This was pretty close to my opinion
Today the Blazers grew up from boys to men (not to be confused with Boyz 2 Men). Let’s hope they can carrry that experience into Games 5 and 6 and make a series of it. I want the Blazers to win the series, of course, but if that’s not in the cards, at the very least I want the Suns to feel truly lucky to have survived past the Blazers.
"My shoulder is OK. And away we go." -- Nic Batum
"wang-dang diddly wubba SPROING wow-wow" -- Dave
These men will win
Though the likely have an edge on us as far as talent goes, we are 2-2. I like our chances. This will be a series to remember.
agree on all accounts
Call it knee-jerk, what ever. But I just felt like there was something different about this game. I’m not saying this is the win that will be the difference in a championship run or not, but this is certainly one of those games that you can build on and try and replicate in the future. Everything about this game was good. love it.
Clownzano + Batum - Clownzano = awesome
Well put
That was a great summary. I’m not sure why we “probably” won’t win now with Brandon though.
because Phoenix is really good*
- on offense only
and as long as they aren’t slowed down
^ my smart alecky response :p sorry
by kempbabymama on Apr 25, 2010 9:24 PM PDT up reply actions
well, Roy "probably" wasn't going to play,
the rest of the Blazers “probably” weren’t going to be competitive even before Roy came in. Batum was not “probable” for game 4. The Blazers probably weren’t getting 50 wins without Oden and Pryz, …. So, probably is not all that intimidating or persuasive to us Blazer fans. Dave does his obligatory objective thing, but he probably has plenty of hope for winning the series anyway. You have to tune in to be sure.
"You be realistic," Oden said. "I’m going to stay happy. All right?"
LOL
I don’t know why people don’t just take me at my word.
Two days ago people were asking me if there was any hope at all for the Blazers to win even one more game. The collective wisdom seemed to be “no”. I flat-out said that Portland would take this game. They thought I was just trying to make other folks feel better. Now one win later people go to the other extreme and posit that we’re going to win the series. Anything can happen but I judge it unlikely. But that’s not what I’m really saying either, I guess.
I’m not mad or anything. It’s just funny. You can straight up say something and people take it as anything except what you’re straight up saying! I think I’ll just have a policy from now on of posting “Buh!” Then people will say, “That means he thinks we’ll win!” Others will guess the opposite. Then I’ll say, “Zuh!” People will think I’m talking about LaMarcus…no, Bayless…no Roy’s injury. Whichever way it goes, folks will just assume that’s what I meant and I’ll be the most brilliant guy in the world.
—Dave
My guess is that lots of fans view you as a fountain of wisdom.
Moreover, people tend to think that they are correct. Thus, when there is a divergence on the two, you are simply not telling us what you really think.
Alternately, you are just not to be trusted.
Sorry I suggested you had hope in the Blazers winning,
even if you honestly believe we are not – that is possible in my mind. Didn’t mean to challenge your honesty. Just didn’t want to seem “attacking” in mentioning that the Blazers have done some improbable things regularly this year, and still could, regardless of the odds.
"You be realistic," Oden said. "I’m going to stay happy. All right?"
Indeed they could
I certainly wouldn’t suggest otherwise. I just think the odds are against them. But the odds can be beat! Go Blazers!
—Dave
It was simply one of the most amazing games I have ever been to
And it didn’t even go down to the wire.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
This was an amazing win, but I don’t think you can circle it as the “day we grew up.” How is this win appreciably different in that sense from the two playoff wins last year? How do we know that LA has grown up because he’s now played one excellent game after 3 awful ones— remember he had a couple good ones last year two.
The Blazers got a great win after a remarkable emotional boost from Roy. That’s all I’d be willing to read into this. Win the series and I’d very likely change my mind.
I half-agree with you here. While this may be a moment that we look back on fondly in the future, I think it’ll be more for the return of Roy than the team growing up.
That being said, it is a great sign to see the team react to adversity, and the two blowouts, by beating Phoenix in a very rough and playoff-esque game. Seeing LaMarcus respond to his poor performance, while not ultimately proving his toughness, was a relief.
#52
"We have nothing to lose." - Martell
poor performance, while not ultimately proving his toughness, was a relief.
poor phrasing. It was good to see him play well, but didn’t prove that he’s grown up forever.
#52
"We have nothing to lose." - Martell
Yup. In fact I would say it fits the idea of LaMarcus being a great second or third banana as long as the #1 guy is playing and drawing attention away from him.
LaMarcus is not a banana I didn’t have a banana, He don’t care what you think of him I don’t care what you think of my son because I know he is a good player I know they wouldn’t be in the playoff if he wasn’t playing well so get you some business and stay out of his.
I think people that blog mean things are very angry people with their own life and need to find god and leave other people alone.
by Georgia Young on Apr 25, 2010 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions 14 recs
It’s a standard expression, not meant to insult anybody. A second option if you like. There should be little doubt that the team plays better when Brandon and LaMarcus can play off each other, instead of the whole attention of the opposition being focused on just him. I like LaMarcus, and my own life is fine, thank you very much.
LaMarcus is absolutely a key contributor to the Blazers and we’re all thankful for that. All we were trying to say in the “second banana” comment is that he plays better when Brandon’s on the floor, because he gets more open shots.
He’s given a lot to the Blazers and I’m thankful for that.
#52
"We have nothing to lose." - Martell
Ms Young
If you are still out there reading this…I just wanted to weigh in. I have been a pretty consistent supporter of of your son LaMarcus. That being said, you shouldn’t take the term “2nd banana” personally. It is not meant as any kind of insult. All Norsktroll is really saying is that LaMarcus is more like Scottie Pippen rather than Michael Jordan. We have watched closely while Brandon has been out and seen him struggle at times…primarily because the defense has been able to key on him (double teams as so forth). Yesterday …as soon as Brandon returned….LaMarcus was able to go off for an astounding 31pt and 11rbd game ….and I think this is not a coincidence…Brandon requires attention from the other teams defense which allows your son to operate much much more freely (he mentions this himself in his post game comments). Remember even if we don’t think LaMarcus is the next MJ….Scottie was one of the 50 greatest players…and a sure fire Hall of Famer too. Please don’t forget…that we are totally and completely invested seeing your son succeed and actively rooting for him each and every game.
Phil Mickelson: "A Great shot is when you pull it off.....a smart shot is when you don't have the guts to try it"’
by 92wastheyear on Apr 25, 2010 5:53 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yes, and I apologize if it was worded poorly
Assuming the poster really is Ms. Young (otherwise impersonating that would be pretty low), I apologize to her and LaMarcus and am sorry if she thought I was insulting LaMarcus. English is not my first language, but to the best of my knowledge the term “second banana” while an old expression is not derogatory and certainly wasn’t meant that way. E.g. as defined here.
It gets used in business, art, and sports to describe a co-star or second option playing off another person. Like recently here by a writer about fellow NBA player Andrea Bargnani.
http://network.nationalpost.com/NP/blogs/postedsports/archive/2010/03/04/andrea-bargnani-happy-as-second-banana.aspx
I’m not an angry person. As an international Blazers fan, I often stand up at night to watch LaMarcus and his teammates play. I paid good money this year while in the US to watch him at two away games and cheer for the Blazers – games in which Brandon was not playing due to injury which I knew ahead of time. If I disliked a player or the team, I would not do that. I have met him however briefly, and as said above like him as a player and from what I can deduct from his public appearances and statements am sure he was raised to be a good person.
I find it a bit odd that a little remark like that would draw the ire of a family member among all the comments on local newspapers, sports radio, ESPN, and various Blazers sites. Including what Ben and Dave have written about his play in the past. But so be it, everybody is entitled to opinions and feelings.
We all come here and invest time to discuss the Blazers with fellow fans. It’s my opinion that LaMarcus is at his best when playing as a co-star off Brandon Roy, sharing responsibilities. I think the world of his athletic abilities and potential, but that’s just how I see it. An opinion that I think is shared by a number of fans and writers. LaMarcus doesn’t have to care what fans who don’t know him personally think of him, but rest assured that I and most of the people commenting on Blazers Edge like him and appreciate what he is doing for the team.
by Norsktroll on Apr 25, 2010 7:59 PM PDT up reply actions 10 recs
why isn’t this green?
If my calculations are correct, when this baby hits 88 miles per hour, you’re gonna see some serious [stuff].
by DrivetheLane on Apr 25, 2010 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions
LaMarcus has always been one of my favorite Blazers
both as a player, and as a person. I have gotten used to ignoring some, IMHO, silly or worse critical comments on a number of players. Rest assured, LaMarcus has PLENTY of fan/friends out here who appreciate him greatly. I understand your annoyance, but don’t let the negative people eclipse the positive ones.
"You be realistic," Oden said. "I’m going to stay happy. All right?"
if this is real
then two worlds have converged in a very awesome way. georgia young is my hero!
by Chadillac5000 on Apr 25, 2010 10:39 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Ms Young, thank you for your post!
I’m going to assume that you’re really THE Georgia Young – and that makes it a privilege to talk with you. It’s good for all of us to be reminded that our words can affect each others’ feelings. And as Chadillac500 says, you’re a hero, because pg all that LaMarcus accomplished. I know that wonderful son had to be raised by a wonderful mother.
It might feel strange to a player’s real mother, but when we all share a team, in so many ways we become like extended family. Which means that we also sometimes argue and criticize because we care so much. But underneath all the “family argument” is that almost all of us support and want the best for LaMarcus. I know Norsktroll didn’t intend to insult LaMarcus in any way, because he is one of the most even-handed commenters.
It’s wonderful that you’ve posted here. That’s what makes this site such a melting pot and the Blazers the team that we love in our community. Thank you, you are a hero.
-jayfisher
yeah
I didn’t mean for that to come off anti-Norsk.
But I really sympathize with this woman. It’s gotta be tough when someone you love is in the public eye, and people are constantly saying he’s this, he’s that, no he’s that, he’s this. You see people talking about him not as the complete human being you know, but as some kind of cog in the big fun-machine. It took guts for her to come into this lion’s den of basketball geeks and stand up for her son, whether she misunderstood what was said or not. That is why I said she is my hero.
by Chadillac5000 on Apr 26, 2010 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions
The growing is real
It is not about putting up big numbers, it is not about being the top dog. It is knowing regardless of how bad our shots look, how bad our defense looks, we can go out and play a mean game of BB and not be intimidated by any team.
IMO, that is what Dave was saying, it wasn’t about winning or hot shooting or luck, It was about putting your shoulders to the harness when things look bad and keep trying to overcome adversity.
I will not deny that getting our top player back didn’t influence the game, but that is part of our culture this year, finding someone to step up, finding a way to succeed and never stop fighting.
hg
LA had 2 less than stellar performances..NOT 3. He scored 21 points in the first game.
I think that usually goes on record as a pretty good performance. I think LA has turned a corner. He was HUGE in the 4th quarter for one thing. Remember when he would just disappear? Seems he is fine with shining now. And I used to think LA kind of freaked out when it got noisy at the Rose Garden..well he has certainly overcome THIS. The RG was very very loud during this game. And LA did just fine with it.
I prefer to see the glass as half full. GO LA!!!
Yeah, remembering back to that fourth,
I really thought that he was gonna brick everything, but wow, lo and behold, he came through in the clutch, nailing jumper after jumper. And to add, he looked relaxed doing them too. Now he needs to continue to do this the next game or this one will just come off as a fluke.
In the first game he had 22 points, but needed 24 shooting possessions to do so, turned the ball over 5 times and had just 3 rebounds. That’s pretty terrible for a guy with allstar aspirations.
Marcus Camby had 17 boards
A lot of those could easily of fallen to LA. It wasn’t that he wasn’t playing aggressively, it was that the boards were all taken
The key is his rebounds, more than his scoring
We need him to get 9 or more boards a night for us to win two of these three games.
"I'm passing it down," Howard said. "Showing the guys that, hey, here's an example of a guy who played 16 years. If you don't want to listen and get the valuable, free information from him - soak it up like a sponge - then you've got to be a damn fool."
A Rhetorical Question
How come every other commentator, including many from the local Portland newspaper, watched the same game and missed this analysis?
Blazersedge is the first page I open up and the last I check when surfing interwebs. It is also the only Blazers source I read after a loss; during those times, the only ones I need to read to find out what happened are here.
Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically
by OhOhOden on Apr 25, 2010 1:05 AM PDT reply actions 4 recs
Why what?
I don’t know what you are responding to.
Honor Alaa Abdelnaby.
First in the NBA. At least alphabetically
He's answering the rhetorical question
Andre Miller is the old guy in the corner at the YMCA who gets picked last and then wins the game singlehandedly with sky hooks from the deep right corner. - dwaynebillybob
Fantastic perspective. As always.
When he wakes up in bed tomorrow I'll be right there next to him saying "Brandon I like you just the way you are". - Mike Rice
Emphasis on "FAN" perhaps...?
There was a lot of emotion to that post (and in no way is that a bad thing…)
I have been waiting for the game that challenges the Blazer’s to grow up. Hope Dave is right and this was it.
Dave is a fan
who nevertheless remains relatively unbiased in his extensive analysis. It’s one of the major reasons I frequent the blog and try to contribute…..
"It's Our Time":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O99POVJfglY
I took my daughter to the game today
It will be a lifelong memory that we share. I do agree that this was a serious moment of maturity for this team, but it might have been even more than that for Nate. I asked you last night if you felt like Nate would make a lineup change, and you said yes. I did not think he would, but there was Bayless. Another important thing happened tonight, Nate took a stand on Rudy. He decided that Rudy’s terrible team defense was not going to be allowed to be on the court tonight, and I think that may have very well been the game changer. I know have Roy played a part in Rudy’s reduction in minutes, but clearly Nate rewarded Bayless tonight for his hustle and heart. These are two things that Rudy has been lacking. I would be surprised to see Rudy back next year, in fact he is probably gone in the draft.
OMG I just jizzed in my France
OMGrandpa
by sug on Apr 25, 2010 1:35 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
Spain's instituting mandatory military service beginning next year and Rudy will be part of it??
You probably shouldn’t be leaking that information!
"One of the bright spots of the young season has been rookie point guard Jonny Flynn, whose name sounds like he should be the lead character in a Broadway Musical. "What are you doing here, Jonny Flynn?" "Why I'm here to court trouble, and woo a girl, and build the most fantastical contraption the world has ever seen!" -- Dave, Game 7 Blazers versus Timberwolves preview
"It was bad reffing...but not rip apart the fabric of time bad." -- The Arkitect, Game 79 Blazers versus Mavericks Post-Game Thread
by BlazersOrBust on Apr 25, 2010 7:06 AM PDT up reply actions
I agree. After not wanting to admit it for a long time, I finally...
have to say that I think Rudy will be gone next year too. Maybe we could get someone who plays better team defense.during the draft/summer.
I think Rudy heard his friend Sergio got a contract for $6million. Seems like this would
cause him to want to play BETTER to increase his trade value if he wants to get out of Portland and play with a run and gun team. On the other hand, if Rudy just wants to go back to Spain, then it probably doesn’t matter to him how well he plays. I bet this is what he ends up doing. I think he has some kind of back out clause in his contract with the Blazers that allows him to return to Spain.
He’s too small for the NBA. Too bad he didn’t bulk up a bit. Am really suprised (not) that Booby Medina and Jay Jensen didn’t manage to get him into decent shape. I mean really…look at those two. How can they be athletic trainers when they are both sporting big old bellies and look like the last time the only exercise they’ve ever done involves picking up food and putting it into their mouths.
lol
I mean really…look at those two. How can they be athletic trainers when they are both sporting big old bellies and look like the last time the only exercise they’ve ever done involves picking up food and putting it into their mouths.
Too funny. Great line
I'm imagining Dave..
…trying to go to bed but just being so pumped up about this win that he jumped out after about 15 minutes with an inspiration and had to bang out this post.
Awesome Stuff
After watching this game earlier, I really have to agree with Dave.
But the thing that stood out most to me was this overwhelming sense that B Roy is starting to become much more than just a player. Their’s something incredibly special about the guy, his sheer presence – All he did was stand up – changed the entire game, and maybe the series. When’s the last time you heard of a player just standing up and his team goes on a 9 – 2 run? Whens the last time a single player gave his entire team, an entire arena, and an entire fan base such an emotional lift without even scoring a point? I feel like he’s going to be one of the all time greats, granted no post season success or rings yet, but I just feel like Roy is going to be a legend, a Blazer icon one day, and that moment when he checked in planted that idea in my head…Like he’s going to be that guy your kids ask you about, and you’ll have endless stories and experiences to tell about his his heroics.
I might be crazy, or I might just be on an emotional high, but I cant seem to shake that feeling about Brandon from my head.
Juwan Freakin' Howard
That is a very special feeling
And you see, there’s probably now way that could arise without all of the negative events of this season. Emotional highs and the memories that they instill are intensified when contrasted with the lows. Roy seems more ‘magical’ more charismatic if you will than LeBron. Spotless perfection and complete domination does not make for a great story, a fulfilling experience. It’s overcoming adversity the lights the mind on fire.
What the heck am I going on about? Sorry.
When he wakes up in bed tomorrow I'll be right there next to him saying "Brandon I like you just the way you are". - Mike Rice
When my phone blew up with texts saying "OMG Roy is playing!"
I thought, “It’s a day of destiny.” Either he was going to go down like Denis Dixon, or bring the team a victory.
"Oh, and Ted, give my love to the Princesses. Ted2: Who? Ted: You'll see." - Ted Theodore Logan.
This game was a nice step forward, no doubt about it.
If they want to go from boys to men, they need to take care of business at home in game 6, and pull out one more road win. That will truly be something they can look back on in future playoff battles. I am cautiously optimistic that they can pull it off now that Roy isn’t in street cloths.
Where's Rudolfo?
I want to believe
Game 3 still hurts though. If they’d really fought tooth and nail, I’d be more optimistic. But they just showed up and played a softer team like a bu ch of wusses.
Props to the garden crowd today, I imagine the word goy out and everone there was electrified by 7s activation.
Dear Rudy, bloom where you are planted man, it may not be NY or LA, but show some heart a d you’ll be a lagend in this little pond.
Gees, it was just like in the movies, when the trooops were taking a beating and despirited, 7 stands up and it’s literally and figuritively like the whole damn Calvary coming over the hill. That was definitaly a historic moment.
Now is there anyway we are going to see 52 come off the bench with the bugle blaring?
CHAAARGE
by doomsdaymachine on Apr 25, 2010 3:02 AM PDT via mobile reply actions
Dave, I have to echo others: Really great article
If you get a job at the Oregonian, and with this level of work you outperform them, I hope you keep active, here.
Regarding the game, I am shocked. If Phoenix goes on to lose this series, it will be because of the taunting and unnecessary physical stuff they threw at Portland in Game 3 after going up by 30. The Blazers got the wake-up call, and on Saturday, they clocked Phoenix with a stiff right to the jaw!
Portland, where toughness happens!?!
"I'm passing it down," Howard said. "Showing the guys that, hey, here's an example of a guy who played 16 years. If you don't want to listen and get the valuable, free information from him - soak it up like a sponge - then you've got to be a damn fool."
Oregonian?
If there’s an opening I’d hope Dave accepts it and brings some fresh air into the sports page.
Okay, my take, after reading Dave’s piece and the comments, is this was a big boost for the Blazers confidence. It proved that when we have our key players we can beat anyone. And yes, it was a clear victory in the fourth.
It was also a game of individual growth for our franchise players. And the whole series has given a boost of experience and confidence to Nate, Nic and Bayless. I also think we all are seeing that Martell is definitely Sixth Man material.
That said as for the individuals, the boost for the team as a whole needs to be buffered by solid play and (knock on wood) a steal wood be nice.
by jiminut on Apr 25, 2010 9:59 AM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Who needs the Oregonian?
The O has a special place in my heart but I get my news online now. The O-live/blazers website was a great outlet for a while and I still like the work that Casey does, but Ben & Dave vs. Quick and Canzano? That’s not even a competition. I hear the Oregonian pays their guys pretty well, maybe they can do some cost cutting and bring in the BE guys for a little less, while upgrading their reporting and saving a little. (not to say that Ben and Dave are worth any less, but I hear the current clowns are overpaid)
"Oh, and Ted, give my love to the Princesses. Ted2: Who? Ted: You'll see." - Ted Theodore Logan.
yeah, seriously
going from a premier blog to print media would be like trading in your car for a horse-drawn buggy.
One thing Dave
It is really hard to say, but with the addition of Camby and BRoy being healthy, I am not sure we are the inferior team. On the other hand I am not sure we are the superior team. In fact, I think we are pretty much evenly matched.
I will say, that I think we play better when we are the underdogs and need to prove to ourselves and the world that we can play BB with the best of them.
hg
Nate and I have been calling for scappiness all year
It was nice to see the team bring their A-Game.
Suns fan here, but great article !
Congratulations to Blazers fans, it was a great win and it is becoming a great series, I expected it to be ! Great article, I am becoming a fan of Dave ! You guys are lucky to have a person like Dave.
one note from games 2 & 3:
Lots of people doubted Blazers toughness or hustle during games 2 & 3, and it was painful to see just how much negative comments and reports were surrounding the Blazers team after the game, but I never doubted the effort of Blazers who represented the perseverance character through out the year.
What happened in that game 2 & 3 from suns-fan point of view, were not about game plan, adjustments or hustle, I believe Blazers players where just in state of shock that comes from denial, because no one, including any experts around the league still can’t acknowledge how suns defense can be great for length of time when they are really committed to it. That denial of acknowledgment took them to state of shock when they experienced it, and took them mentally out off the game, for 2 games.
(known too long as a non-defense playoff team and as a best offensive team – but it’s almost funny now how nobody outside Suns team, would seriously talk about Suns defense which was so evident after game2 & 3 )
However, that state seems to be temporarily over now(although acknowledging must be done in order to prepare better) with Roy coming back in dramatic fashion that lifted the whole Blazers team and the fans, and the momentum seems to be on Blazers side.
It is very underrated series, but a great one, with games 1 & 4 well planned & executed by the Blazers just like they did the whole year, and 2 & 3 played out by Phoenix just like they did most of the games after the all-star break.
I still think both teams are underrated and especially the Suns. Even with Roy back, Suns have an edge, but because of Blazers toughness shown all year, it would probably come down to typical
" who wants more?"
I’m happy to be able to enjoy this fantastic match up .
by enjoynash on Apr 25, 2010 6:14 AM PDT reply actions 3 recs
It is a fantastic matchup, but
it’s too bad it’s in the first round: it means one of these special teams won’t be going on. I wish we could face you in the WCF. Oh well…
by Cepstrum on Apr 25, 2010 7:21 AM PDT via mobile up reply actions
True
I liked this year’s Blazers, and reading too much of Dave’s articles makes me…well,
still Suns fan, but I will root for Blazers, if we lose this one.
Thanks
It takes guts man, to post on the other site after a loss. I agree with you that this series is the best of the first round and disappointed that it continues to get no attention from national media. Albeit I was watching the game in San Diego with some of my friends who aren’t fans of either team and they were all like, “Wow, an actual game to watch”. Here’s hoping the rest of these games aren’t blowouts either way.
Best of mysterious potential ?
How could a team win 50 games with all those injuries?
How could a team gets the 3rd seed when they didn’t make the playoffs last year and lose Shaq during the off season?
Very best of the mysterious potential team.
And I think both team are really good already, could win it all with all the healthy members!
You are the best sport of all the Sun fans
that I’ve interacted with this month.
And, Nash is a really special player. If he wasn’t on the other team right now, I’d be ooohing and ahhing at his play quite a bit. You guys are lucky to have resigned him in the midst of the age question.
"Oh, and Ted, give my love to the Princesses. Ted2: Who? Ted: You'll see." - Ted Theodore Logan.
Suns have an outstanding defense
But will their great ability to execute their double team sustain through victory in the series after being spread so thinly?
The Blazers seem to have found an answer to Nash, but Amare and Richardson may be ??‘s. I would like to extend to you Sun fan’s a good luck, but NO WAY, we want this. The Suns have grit no doubt, but it is all about smarts now. I want the Blazers to be the smartest of the two teams. So may the best man win.
by thebigoutdoors on Apr 25, 2010 7:31 AM PDT up reply actions
Good luck to the Suns
But more good luck to the Blazers.
by I can't think of a good screen name... on Apr 25, 2010 10:06 AM PDT up reply actions
I hope so
You might been the first in USA to admit suns actually have " great " defense !
They are committed to defense this year from day one, and because we don’t have defensive star, and nash is a liability, helping out is a key for our defense. One of the things that hasn’t been talked about much is the effect of bench minutes. After all-star break, the bench has been playing great quality minutes which gives everybody fresh legs and concentration, effort on defense. Also, we are much more better defensively with Lopez in the lineup but, he won’t be back at least until the next round… Yes, may the best team win.
hero worship gone too far
i was as inspired as anybody when Roy entered the game yesterday. But if the Blazers are going to win this series and advance, they’ll need more than 10 pts in 27 minutes out of Roy. In the closing minutes of the game when Roy still had 5 points, I was thinking that he looked tentative in his first game back.
It had been 8 days since his SURGERY I am glad he was careful
That was a very big moment in the history of this franchise. I remember Duck returning from injury for a critical playoff game with similar fondness and that was 20 years ago. I am so glad we didn’t go into the lottery this year because yesterday’s game made the season meaningful for the future of this team. Roy’s presence on the court didn’t just help out LA. I would argue that Miller having more room to operate was as big of a factor in the team’s success. No need to worship Roy but give the man his due cause that was sacrifice and leadership that will inspire and be remembered by this fanbase for decades.
by Jacksonville on Apr 25, 2010 10:39 AM PDT up reply actions
he took the double team away from LA
that was the important thing
Michael Jordan is the Nicolas Batum of America
2 down, 14 to go
by thomasikehara on Apr 25, 2010 11:16 AM PDT up reply actions
well, yes, but the thing is, the game was tight before Roy entered.
The Blazers didn’t need a LOT from Roy. When it is close, that little bit extra can make the difference.
The whole team has to play that well. We shall see if they do.
"You be realistic," Oden said. "I’m going to stay happy. All right?"
Dave - not just this article
but the great writing all year. So many of us enjoy and have come to actually need BE for our daily dose(s) of Blazer tonic.
I took my three sons and grandson to the game yesterday and it may have been one of the best times we have all ever had together. The BRoy introduction eclipsed even the chill I got from the “Mar-cus Cam-by” chant a few weeks back. The fans needed this game in a big way and the team delivered. LA not only vanquised the Suns but along the way a few demons as well with his tough stance and a grit I had not seen before. With Brandon back and the Suns undecided on who to double team, look for more success from both LeMarcus and Andre.
After the game the fans were so happy – chanting, laughing and high fiving. The sun was shining in Portland – but it was Blazer sun!
Downtown the lovefest continued as we visited our favorite bras and restaurants to shouts of “Go Blazers!” It was a great day!
great article, great perspective
This article puts into words the way I felt coming out of that 4th game.
Last year you look at the Blazers in the Houston series and conclude: This team doesn’t have what it takes to compete in playoff basketball.
This year you look at this team and say: These guys now can compete in the playoffs. I would say, even if they get trounced in game 5 and 6, mission accomplished, these guys are now a bona fide playoff team. I look at the other playoff games on TV and think, “Blazers could compete in those games”. Might not necessarily win, but they would be competitive. That’s the next step we were looking for this year.
But hey, if they can somehow pull out a win in this series, that’s icing on the cake as far as I’m concerned. If they could somehow get to the finals and face the Lakers, well I think the Lakers are right on the brink of disaster and some lucky team is going to get to be the ones to do them in.
Disagree
If the Blazers get blown out two games in a row and lost this series 4-2 I will in no way be feeling like we remained competative or took “the next step we were looking for this year.” Sorry, but another couple blow out losses would be AWFUL.
"Oh, and Ted, give my love to the Princesses. Ted2: Who? Ted: You'll see." - Ted Theodore Logan.
No kidding. I think Dave's point of the Blazers turning the corner and growing into men would
be pretty much disproved if the Blazers went on to get blown out in games 5 & 6.
Broy
" In the closing minutes of the game when Roy still had 5 points, I was thinking that he looked tentative in his first game back."
I see it quite differently. Remember last time he came back from injury? He was in a slump for quite a while. This time he comes back in and contributes from day 1. I see no reason why he can’t progress from his performance in game 4 and play like an all star in game 5. But I’m not sure the Blazers need it. With Batum back to hopefully full strength, they may not need superstar play from Brandon, just a solid contribution as a moderate minutes starter or as a 6th man. And his presence on the floor forces Phoenix to shift some of their defense to him, freeing up Aldridge.
I found it interesting how Aldridge was so absolutely relieved that Phoenix’s defensive pressure on him eased up enough for him to do more, all on account of Broy being in the game.
Barkley might have been right about the Blazers not having a chance with Broy on the sidelines. I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting to hear him say the Blazers now have a shot at it though.
Suns
I agree with the Suns fans- those who say the Suns can’t play defense are living in the past. Nash’s weak defense is a pretty glaring deficiency, but overall the team has become solid on defense so long as they are focused.
It seems like both teams in this series are in a similar situation- they are successful when they manage to throw the other team off its rhythm, and if they can’t do that they lose. I don’t know, maybe that’s the key to any playoff matchup. Certainly was the story in last year’s series against Houston.
Coaching is going to play a big part. The players on both teams know they can play against the other team. Which coach can outsmart the other will probably determine who wins this series.
I agree with Dave on the team's growth but...
I was curious to see if the team would rise to the occasion or fold their tent at the first sign of adversity, and the beginning of the 3rd quarter seemed like that moment of truth. Thankfully they responded as men rather than boys.
But I do not get the sense that the Suns wanted to work too hard for this one. They’d have taken it if the Blazer laid down for them, but I didn’t sense a whole lot of fight from them.
I don’t think we’ve seen a game yet in this series in which both teams have given it their best shot. Let’s hope the Blazer now have found the courage to give it their best even if it means finding out that right now you’re not as good as the other team.
Hmm, we are on the road to being grown ups
but we are not at our destination yet. Huge win last night. Roy is clearly a grown up. But I am reminded of how young we are rather then weather we may be men now or not. I just watched Martell’s answer to a reporters question about Roy, and then watched Camby’s. The difference to me is striking. You can see the maturity and experience in Camby in his answer. Martell is trying to stay calm, but you can see how excited he is to have Roy back, what it meant to him. The way they view the situation and how they take is in is matter of the difference in age and experience. Of course that only makes me optomistic for the future.
We are on our way, Last nights game should be a big time learning eperience for us, but I thought that after Game 1 as well. I think it will take at least one series win for the Blazers to take that next big step where they take the floor with the body language that says they already know they are going to win… that arrogance and swagger. It may take a run to the WCF, no one can really say…. have to remember that from here on out, every step the team takes is on ground they are walking on for the first time.
by BlazerFann4Life on Apr 25, 2010 8:47 AM PDT reply actions
Hmm, we are on the road to being grown ups
but we are not at our destination yet. Have to remember that from here on out, every step the team takes is on ground they are walking on for the first time.
But they are definately getting an education right now, and doing well. Doing amazing really against a more experienced, and you would have to say more talented team. The body language is still up and down, we are a young team and an emotional one. When the hills and valley’s level out we will see it in their body language, a swagger and a quiet arrogance.
I hope your right though. if this were the turning point game and the Blazers came out next game and I could see the body language, I would say you were a prophet Dave. I think they need at least a series win though.
by BlazerFann4Life on Apr 25, 2010 9:02 AM PDT reply actions
It is a process
By definition, that means that there are games that demonstrate “coming of age” progress and other games show “not there, yet” backsliding. I think the point Dave is making is that this was a definitely a significant step in the right direction, whether or not it is “THE definitive step” remains to be seen.
LMA showed he could step-up, rather than fold, in a “do or die” game. That fact will help him have confidence in the next one.
Brandon showed leadership and commitment to the team that will earn him further respect from teammates the league and the media..
Marcus, Juwan, and Andre all showed that they know how to play within themselves and not try to do too much.
Marty and Jerryd, for the most part, played under control and without fear of failure. Both guys have struggled at times with “trying too hard.” Learning how to relax and focus at the same time is incredibly important.
Nic showed courage and toughness playing well in spite of the pain.
by upper left corner on Apr 25, 2010 10:51 AM PDT up reply actions
Hate to throw cold water on everyone
but I rather disagree. How was this game different from the win in game 1? It wasn’t, apart from the presence of Brandon Roy.
Now, if the Blazers go down to Phoenix and win Monday night, that might be a win to circle.
aye - it represents the "adjustment"
without the adjustment, teams don’t win.
I’m one of those that don’t believe games 2 and 3 were lost due to some mystical lack of effort, poise or intestinal fortitude. Rather, I’m one of those that believe the Blazers got out-schemed – and that the difference between a blowout and a competitive game can boil down to a single problem what wasn’t solved.
In both Games 2 and 3 – the problem was the Blazers inability to get the shot they wanted that led to poor shooting and opened the floodgates for Phoenix. Once Phoenix was allowed to be a good defensive team, it was impossible to play defense against them. Call it Hill on Miller, call it Rudy not punishing Nash, call it LMA being doubled constantly, and top it all off with a lack of focus that exacerbated the whole thing with bad shooting (from the floor and at the line).
Only – that problem has only really been manifested in the four quarters of Game 2 and the first two quarters of Game 3.
It took six quarters for the Blazers to break the defensive scheme and play sufficient offense to allow themselves to play defense.
Five quarters out of sixteen the Blazers have been womped (the fourth quarter of Game 2 was a 2-pt mercy killing).
Otherwise, the Blazers have either won, tied or been within 2 points of the Suns in 11 out of 16 quarters. That tells me that Nate and his staff have been able to adjust (contrary to my personal expectations) and that the Blazers have the right players to both create problems for Phoenix on the offensive end and play some serious set defense.
The whole series hinges on the ability for Portland to score efficiently, use that efficiency to slow the Phoenix transition game, and set it’s defense for the half-court. Without offense, the defense doesn’t happen.
The big question is, have we seen all that Phoenix can do defensively?
You could say that the Game 4 victory started in the second half of Game 3 – a half where Portland won both quarters and may have staged an amazing comeback but for incredible shooting by Richardson and abominable free throw shooting.
I think that learning how to beat the
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 25, 2010 10:47 AM PDT up reply actions 4 recs
oops...post got two long and I lost a fragment....
I think learning how to beat the Suns has already happened. As long as the Blazers believe – they will shoot good enough.
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 25, 2010 10:49 AM PDT up reply actions
Inspired comment. Rec'ed
Wow! You are really bringing it this morning, BlacknoiseNW.
I think “effort” and “toughness” are more “effect” than “cause.” By that, I mean that being out-schemed and out-executed made it look like the Blazer’s were playing without effort and toughness in games 2 and 3.
Given how hard the team has played all year, I don’t think it makes sense to believe they were not trying in games 2 and 3. I think it is more a matter of not knowing what to do on offense and then not being able to slow down Phoenix when they were playing fast and loose. It is a self reinforcing cycle. When the Blazers struggle, guys get tight and can’t hit shots. When Phoenix is getting out and running off missed Blazer shots, we are at the mercy of Phoenix’s stable of outstanding shooters.
When I look at the difference between games 2 and 3 vs. game 4, I see four big differences:
1) LMA figured out the double team much more frequently in game 4. He made decisions quickly and often turned baseline to get away from the double team coming from the middle. LMA being able to score had a huge impact.
2) The Blazers did a much better job on Nash. Bayless managed to make Nash work for what he got. Bayless didn’t stop Nash by any means, but he didn’t let him run wild. Dre simply doesn’t have the speed to stay with Nash, and he had trouble finding him early because he was being defended by Hill. Bayless and Nash guarded each other, that made it possible for Jerryd to pick him up quickly, which helped slow the Phoenix break. In addition, the Blazers doubled Nash on the pick and roll to give Bayless some help. It made a big difference. When Bayless was not on Nash, Nic got the call and played well.
3) Miller, Roy, and Nic tag teamed JRich and did a much better job of maintaining contact than Rudy did in games 2 and 3.
4) Juwan and Marcus hit enough shots to keep Phoenix a bit more honest. When those guys aren’t hitting it allows Phoenix to double Miller and LMA without paying a price.
It will be interesting to see what adjustments Gentry comes with in game 5. The problem for Phoenix is that Bayless and Roy, separately or together, give the Blazers another legitimate scoring option that makes it very difficult for them to maintain the aggressive doubles and occasional zone defenses that were so effective in games 2 and 3.
by upper left corner on Apr 25, 2010 11:28 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
LMA's baseline moves may end up the story of the series
When he goes baseline, the double team just can’t get there – and he draws more fouls.
Plus – the speed at which he made decisions to shoot or pass out of that position made that particular isolation play one of the most effective I’ve ever seen from the Blazers. The Suns just don’t have anyone that can stop LMA when he is on and has options to go up and under or simply up.
The high post with Camby is one thing that is making the LMA low post so effective – he can get the ball into LMA deep, can pass to cutters, or hit the outside shot. When both are on, the Blazers might be unbeatable.
I wonder, though – if the Suns counter LMA’s low post by positioning his defender on the baseline, forcing LMA to the center where help is available? If so, what do the Blazers do to counter the counter?
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 25, 2010 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions
Isn’t the real way to counter the high-low just to have Camby’s defender sag back into LA’s lap and take away the passing lane? If I’m the Suns, I live with him shooting the 19 footer over LA getting the ball cutting across the lane 6 feet in front of the hoop.
They seemed to try this in game 2...
Camby took it down the lane and missed a couple easy ones. That was pretty deflating/demoralizing IMO.
"You kill a mosquito with an axe. Nothing personal, but this is what I've got to do. You're in my way right now so I've got to get rid of you and I'll see you next year." -Monty Williams
thoughtful analysis.
rec.
"One of the bright spots of the young season has been rookie point guard Jonny Flynn, whose name sounds like he should be the lead character in a Broadway Musical. "What are you doing here, Jonny Flynn?" "Why I'm here to court trouble, and woo a girl, and build the most fantastical contraption the world has ever seen!" -- Dave, Game 7 Blazers versus Timberwolves preview
"It was bad reffing...but not rip apart the fabric of time bad." -- The Arkitect, Game 79 Blazers versus Mavericks Post-Game Thread
by BlazersOrBust on Apr 25, 2010 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions
Great analyses, upper left corner and BlacknoiseNW!
In BrandonMitchellOrg’s video of Brandon entering the game, we can see (and hear) the analysis of how the Blazers were doubling Nash in the pick and roll.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_syeaAB1LEY
Watch the video and see how far out Phoenix was being pushed in the half court. Nash and the others were being pushed out of their comfort zone
I can rec this.
I do believe in the importance of effort and focus, but much of what you say rings true.
Clarence, It's better to have a gun and not need it, then need a gun and not have it.
I agree with this
The mental ‘recovery’, if nothing else, was great to see. The team was able to put the past in the past and focus on what they could do ‘today’ to get a win.
"It's Our Time":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O99POVJfglY
no comparison
if you look at game 1, it was more on the fluke side. The Blazers didn’t really play that well and it was more Pheonix coming in not prepared. Game 4, totally different, we beet them with all cylinders firing and it feels like a true good win.
There oughta be a poll up.
Which road game do YOU think the Blazers have a better shot at winning? Game 5 or Game 7?
(Taking into consideration Roy’s injury and conditioning getting better as the series goes on.)
"When it's played the way is spozed to be played, basketball happens in the air; flying, floating, elevated above the floor, levitating the way oppressed peoples of this earth imagine themselves in their dreams."
- John Edgar Wideman
On the other hand, I think we are more likely to get fair treatment from the refs in a Game 5
Game 7 on the road is a recipe for a little “home cooking.”
In addition, I think the Blazers may have a better chance of catching Phoenix off balance sooner, rather than later. Roy is a wild card that Phoenix has not really dealt with yet. If they play us twice with Roy in games five and six, they may have figured out some effective adjustments. If we can hit them hard tomorrow night when they are a little off balance, I like our chances.
by upper left corner on Apr 25, 2010 11:36 AM PDT up reply actions
excellent piece of writing
It really felt like we took a step upward in the big picture.
What a great series it’s been!
" You can see the maturity and experience in Camby in his answer. Martell is trying to stay calm, but you can see how excited he is to have Roy back, what it meant to him. "
That just goes to show that getting Camby, Howard, and Miller are huge plusses for the Blazers not only in the play on the court, but in developing the maturity level of the young players.
You can never be sure how things will play out, but just think of how much potential there is for Camby to help develop Oden into not only a premier center but a seasoned veteran from a mental toughness standpoint.
its nice to see young guys happier about winning than minutes
Martell is trying to stay calm, but you can see how excited he is to have Roy back, what it meant to him. "
Michael Jordan is the Nicolas Batum of America
2 down, 14 to go
by thomasikehara on Apr 25, 2010 11:18 AM PDT up reply actions
I still love your signature
I have said it outloud every couple days or so this last month.
"I come to you now, at the turn of the tide." -- Brandon "Gandalf" Roy, April 24th, 2010
“Nobody in Portland, Oregon thinks they can win this series…” -Barkley
“Portland may not win this series—probably won’t, in fact—but they just left the launching pad and rocketed into viable-team status with that victory.” -Dave
You know he was talking about you guys, right?
“Portland may not win this series, but they just left the launching pad and rocketed into viable-team status with that victory.”
Is that such a bad sentence? I know you don’t want to be a homer, but the pendulum may have swung a little far. I’m sick of folks counting us out so they can claim “backsies”.
What's a backsies?
"I come to you now, at the turn of the tide." -- Brandon "Gandalf" Roy, April 24th, 2010
You're probably barking up the wrong tree
I don’t usually say things so I can later claim things and if I do I make it quite obvious I’m doing so. This isn’t a big “I told you so” site. I say that Portland probably won’t win the series because I believe, with whatever critical faculties I’m employing, that odds are still in Phoenix’s favor. Simple as that.
In another couple of years I’ll likely be predicting the Blazers making a run at the Finals at which time a whole ’nother group of people will come out and call me a card-carrying homer. So be it. I call what I see.
—Dave
Ok, but
I still don’t understand what you mean by this sentence:
Is that such a bad sentence? I know you don’t want to be a homer, but the pendulum may have swung a little far. I’m sick of folks counting us out so they can claim "backsies".
"I come to you now, at the turn of the tide." -- Brandon "Gandalf" Roy, April 24th, 2010
I mean by those THREE sentences.
"I come to you now, at the turn of the tide." -- Brandon "Gandalf" Roy, April 24th, 2010
...OK
My point is there is fine line between being a homer and counting your team out before the chips are down. This site, which I love and read daily, has been throwing out crap like that sentence ever since this series began. They bought the hype that Phoenix is gonna stomp us, and have been waiting for the “I told ya so” moment before the competition even began.
Of course Dave and Ben want the team to win, and yeah, the odds are against us, but constant reminders that they don’t think we can win are unnecessary and will only serve to maintain their reputations if the series goes the other way. On the other hand, if we do win, they can say, “Wow! Against all odds, the Blazers win!”, so sentences like the one I corrected only come off as preemptively petty posturing, and I know these guys are better than that.
Probabilities matter
Regardless if they support your desired outcome. To print other than accurate probabilities would be disingenuous and a disservice to the audience.
The reality is that Phoenix was playing better basketball against better competition than any other team in the West, going into the playoffs. They have the home court advantage, fewer injuries (down only one player, vs. two starters and a rotation player), etc. etc. etc.
If you take exception to the facts favoring Phoenix, you (as in anyone) are delusional – unwilling to acknowledge that the probabilities favor a Phoenix win in the series.
The only question is whether Phoenix can solve specific match up challenges with Portland and maximize their own advantages. That doesn’t change the truth that the probabilities still favor Phoenix.
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 25, 2010 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions
Your point has been made
Now, take a deep breath and go have a beer.
"I come to you now, at the turn of the tide." -- Brandon "Gandalf" Roy, April 24th, 2010
I don't recall hearing
such comments from Dave et al. every day. I admit I predicted the Suns in five, but I’m trying to be realistic; I have no desire to say I told you so. From what I’ve read, I don’t think the tone at BE would generate that kind of sentiment.
And what’s wrong with reminding ourselves that the Suns are more likely to win? It helps us be pleasantly surprised when the Blazers win and (partially) ameliorates the otherwise deleterious effect of a Suns victory would have on our myopic lives.
Maybe I’m misunderstanding things here. I don’t mean to be unduly harsh or critical anyway.
by Cepstrum on Apr 25, 2010 8:23 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
The reason is
that without the qualifier a horde of people will say, “Dave thinks we’ll win the series!” just because the post is positive in nature. In reality this post has nothing to do with winning or losing the series from here on out. It will remain true even if we end up losing. That’s is the point. We’ve gotten something here that’s valuable and that can’t be taken away. The qualifier about the series is designed to keep you out of a false argument for or against based on that and, by virtue of elimination, help guide you on the track the post was meant to explore.
—Dave
"Growing Up"
For everyone saying that last night was different than game 1, and everyone saying that they’ve heard this before like in the playoffs last year or the Dallas game, here’s what I think you are missing: there most likely won’t be 1 game or series you can point to; it will be moments like last night, the Houston series, the Dallas game, and more all added up. If we win a championship in the next 5 years you will look back and see last night as 1 step in the progression. You don’t “grow up” in one step.
Take LeBron and the Cavs for example. Let’s imagine they win the championship this year. Cavs fans will look back and see the progression. They won’t see 1 game and say “that’s the game that changed it all”. They’ll surely remember specific games and series though, and that’s what last night was for the Blazers.
Are the Blazers going to win a championship this year? No. But last night was a building block…a step toward that ultimate goal. And the leader led by example. He sent a message that if you play on his team you better give everything you have with no excuses. Whether we win the series or not, I think when we look back a few years from now after winning a championship this is one of those moments that’ll stand out as a moment where we grew up one more step.
"Maybe your parents didn't believe in you."
by MarineCorpsDuck on Apr 25, 2010 1:06 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
...and we've got our formula
At one point Nate told the TNT interviewer (paraphrasing) “We’re going to get the ball in the hands LA, Andre and Roy. We’re going to run everything though those guys”. I think that’s our offensive strategy for the next 2 years. No more handing the ball to Rudy or Jared et al and waiting to see what happens. One of those three should have the ball 80% of the time with the option to kick it out to a cutter or shooter as good opportunities arises.
Good insight but don't agree with the from boys to men comment
We won based on Aldridge’s hot shooting. He’s done this before (hot shooting, convincing people he’s going to consistently do this). We don’t have a clear verdict on him yet. It was fun to watch though.
by cchellis on Apr 25, 2010 4:14 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
A valid point
Andre Miller is the old guy in the corner at the YMCA who gets picked last and then wins the game singlehandedly with sky hooks from the deep right corner. - dwaynebillybob
Effort
Glad to see the team play with effort for the entire game and not roll over.
Thought they might in the 3rd with richardson hit a couple shots, but they came back and played hard, which is what I want to see from them every game, win or lose.
Go Blazers.
"Better, not good, but better." - Herb Brooks
Lopez
The rumor down in Phoenix is the Suns were impressed with the way Roy’s return had an effect on the crowd and lifted the team’s spirit. They are going to try a similar tactic by bringing Lopez back for game 5. LOL!!!
by Gremarcus Roynandez on Apr 25, 2010 7:16 PM PDT reply actions
So that he can go up against Oden?
"It's Our Time":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O99POVJfglY
by Storyteller on Apr 25, 2010 8:43 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
You posted this on BSotS, only with phoenix replacing portland
not sure what type of pot you’re trying to stir…
All these post hoc conclusions
on the Blazers “growth” are interesting and hopeful, but I’m worried that, like s previous poster said, the growth may have been an effect of things going our way rather than a cause. Humans love to see causal relationships and see events in light of clear, explicable patterns and meanings.
But your (Dave) analysis is probably correct. I just had the dumb notion I should post something. ;)
by Cepstrum on Apr 25, 2010 8:29 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
All these comments seem good
but the fact remains this team got completely destroyed two straight games. That’s at least a few steps back for whatever was forward on this win.
Good point
Yet after the fact, it would seem that individual losses (even blowout losses) are not remembered if the team is able to win the series.
See 1985 NBA Finals, Game 1…..
"It's Our Time":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O99POVJfglY
Not necessarily.
That win could be the momentum shift needed to take control of the series. I’ve seen other teams get stomped or take a game off, and come back to close out their opponent and move on. It’ll be interesting to see how it plays out.
"Take it off the rack, if it's wack, put it back. I like the Whopper, fuck the Big Mac." - Rob Base, It Takes Two, 1988
That is precisely the point
The victory coming AFTER the blowouts adds to the grit and intentionality factor…that the Blazers saw something they wanted and took it under adverse circumstances when practically nobody gave them a chance. I would not have said the same thing after a couple of 4-point losses. Eventual playoff success is about exactly this: find the worst scenario you can imagine and then overcome it. That’s pretty much what the Blazers did.
—Dave
this point is only valid if they come back and win the series - because they haven't overcome anything
If they don’t then do you write a retraction?
wrong premise
when you are missing Roy, Oden, Prz, etc… (as they were at the beginning of the series), plus only got half a season out of Batum – winning the first round series isn’t the measure of success.
It is a valid measure of success simply to challenge a better team – better because they (Phoenix) had all the advantages going in to the series.
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 26, 2010 9:16 AM PDT up reply actions
What? A moral victory?
Losing by 20 might not be enough moral victory to count. This team has so much potential, and injuries have been cruel. You can’t win without rebounding and scoring, which this team can do neither because of the injuries. You are right if Roy, Oden, and Pryz were all healthy Phoenix would be in real trouble. But they aren’t and the team will lose the series. Overcoming all of that would mean actually winning despite they disadvantage.
In order to overcome you actually have to overcome
Winning a playoff game is not overcoming. Yes the game was awesome and we saw some grit, but unless they can apply that grit to the series going forward there is no overcoming. A lesson learned is only proved when it is applied. They will be blown out again before all this is done, and that will prove nothing has been overcome. They will be the same battered and broken team after the series as when they started. It’s not even their fault – injuries have been devestating, and I think it is important to accept that, which you do. The whole feel good thing by pointing to the a few times when they played scrappy and daring does not prove anything unless it is that way going forward, which it is clearly not. Blazers will be smashed again because they simply can’t hang with Phoenix. They are going to continue to lose bad because they are badly organized for the playoffs because of the injuries. Oden and a healthy Roy would make most of the difference. Blazers can’t rebound and can’t score – that is why they will lose.
With Roy this is a completely different series.
A 60% Roy is astronomically better than a still-missing Rudy or a streaky Marty. The Suns now have to worry about at least a clutch shooter(see the 3 point shot and clinching pullup J in the 4th) which opens up things up for everyone else. I sense a momentum shift! Thank u, BRoy. Brandon Roy=man.
Posterizing Pau since 2008...
How about the experience Bayless has been getting. Nate is letting him just play even through the mistakes.
That’s such progress, this team is growing up, they are just balling now.
Without wanting to sound crude...
This post gave me a boner.
The Odenphant is true king of the jungle.
I like Dave's writing very much, but this is a huge over-reaction, IMO.
Phoenix had blown away the Blazers 2 games straight and reclaimed the home court advantage. Phoenix did not “need” to win again in Portland. The Blazers effort in games 2 and 3 was so incredibly bad it wouldn’t be surprising if some Phoenix players (contrary to logic and reason) believed that the Blazers would mentally give up when faced with a little adversity in game 4. I don’t think Phoenix gave anything near its best effort in game 4.
Conversely, after 2 incredibly poor efforts by the Blazers, any Blazers player that didn’t give 110% effort in game 4 wouldn’t have enough pride to be an NBA player. If it hadn’t been for LMA’s great game and B-Roy’s emotional lift we probably would have lost the game and now be talking about Miller’s 4-13 shooting, Bayless 4-10 shooting (and missed jump shots), and Martell and Rudy combining for 1-6 shooting. Not exactly clutch play under playoff pressure from a team (except for LMA and B-Roy) that had suddenly rocketed into viable-team status, or all flowered in the same game. And we’d be wondering how we lost again with Phoenix only shooting 26% on 23 3-pt shoots (many of which were uncontested), and Grant Hill, Richardson, Dudley, and Dragic combining for 10-32 shooting.
So yes, we won. We outplayed Phoenix on a poor day for them thanks mostly to LMA and Brandon’s emotional return. But it wasn’t a particularly well played game by either team, and not (IMO) an indicator that the Blazers have suddenly matured overnight after the horrendous showing in games 2 and 3. They have to win a series to show that, and this would be a good series to do it.
"Brandon eats first around here" - KP
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Apr 25, 2010 10:50 PM PDT reply actions
few teams win 7-game series relying on 3-point shooting
but that is an intuitive statement – one I haven’t researched.
What we can establish from observation is that each team has won the game they imposed their style on the other…
We have three games to see who can force the issue and win out…..
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 26, 2010 12:48 AM PDT up reply actions
for every rule there is an exception
2009 Finals: Orlando shot no better than 34.8% from 3-point territory in any game. Hard to win from out there – but they certainly tried jacking up 23, 30, 21 and 27 3-pointers in their four losses – and only 14 in their one win.
by blacknoiseNW on Apr 26, 2010 9:05 AM PDT up reply actions
Question
Why isn’t Oden or Pryzbilla on the bench watching the games? I haven’t seen either one near the team after their injuries. I think it would help to have them around.
Lets Go Blazers!
Hey what’s the record for Phoenix on TNT games?? Just curious
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