Portland Bench Rides High, Blazers Drop Warriors, 129-107

Facing a short-handed Golden State squad, the Portland Trail Blazers expected a strong night from the starters to push the defending champs. Instead, it was the second unit answering the call and sending the Warriors into the All-Star Break defeated.

Jake Layman had 17 points, Zach Collins had three emphatic blocks, and the Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Golden State Warriors, 129-107, Wednesday night at the Moda Center.

Damian Lillard scored 29 points, but the night belonged to the bench, which scored 52 points. Stephen Curry had 32 points in a losing effort. Portland’s defense held Klay Thompson to just 2-of-16 shooting.

Here are tonight’s takeaways:

• Momentum Shifts: The game was close for three quarters, but a spectacular chase down block by Collins on Damion Lee shifted the tempo. Collins would get into the heads of the Warriors, eventually provoking a double technical with Thompson and a flagrant foul on Draymond Green which resulted in Warriors coach Steve Kerr’s ejection.

• Battle for Starting Small Forward: Rodney Hood and Moe Harkless both had strong nights along with Layman in the battle for the starting spot. Harkless scored 10 points with excellent defense, but Layman dominated the fourth quarter. Hood played a smaller role well. All three made good cases to see their minutes.

What’s Next

The All-Star Break is upon us, with Damian Lillard representing the squad on Sunday.

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