Phew. It ain't over yet. Dallas gave the Blazers all they could handle. But Portland played tough, with heart, and even stopped a few pick and rolls. Despite a late Mavs run, the Blazers held on, inching to a 2-1 series deficit with another game at home to come.
The Blazers were led by Wesley Matthews with 25 points, 22 in the first half. LaMarcus Aldridge added 20 points, and Andre Miller with 16 and 7 assists. But the story of the game was Brandon Roy, who came off the bench for 16 points and 4 assists, helping the Blazers over the top. In an unexpected twist, Chris Johnson (!) helped turn the game in the fourth quarter, with three rebounds, two blocks, and a couple key altered shots.
It's less than two days until Game 4 (Saturday afternoon), so enjoy the feeling of a playoff win. The box score is here, and Dave and Ben will have plenty later.