Blazer's Edge - Complete Coverage: Blazers 106, Pacers 102The ultimate coverage and analysis of the Portland Trail Blazershttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47543/blazersedge-fave.png2013-12-03T03:17:14-08:00http://www.blazersedge.com/rss/stream/49320652013-12-03T03:17:14-08:002013-12-03T03:17:14-08:00Media Row Report: Blazers 106, Pacers 102
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<p>The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Indiana Pacers, 106-102, at the Moda Center on Monday night, improving their record to 15-3.</p> <p>The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Indiana Pacers, 106-102, at the Moda Center on Monday night, improving their record to 15-3.</p>
<p>As members of the national media were lining up on Twitter after the final buzzer, offering unconditional praise and even toying with the notion of a possible trip to the Finals, Blazers coach Terry Stotts did his best to cling to a mantra that his team seems determined to disprove. <i>We haven't done anything yet, it's early, it's just one win, it's just a home win, there are plenty of tough games coming up</i>. Finally, peeking through that hanging, cloudy wariness, a full line of unfettered satisfaction. Positive, unqualified words that weren't spread out to include the opposition too.</p>
<p>"I will say this -- I thought this was our most consistent game from beginning to end," Stotts said. "Execution, effort, mental focus, all those things."</p>
<p>The briefest of self-congratulations, there for just that moment, disappeared as quickly as it came. Stotts then continued, almost as if covering his tracks: "I don't think you make statement games -- or anything like that -- in December."</p>
<p>Here, it seemed, were two incompatible ideas. It seems impossible for a 15-3 team to enjoy its most consistent performance of the season, to prevail against a playoff-tested opponent that has the league's best record, to win in a hyped match-up, in an intense atmosphere and in a gimmick-free manner, and have it be just another game. Those factors and circumstances <i>must </i>say something of significance.</p>
<p>"[It says] we're a pretty damn good team and we can compete with anybody," Blazers guard Wesley Matthews offered, happily connecting the dots.</p>
<p>This game scored off the charts when it comes to "memorability" -- any time an All-Star scores a career-high 43 points and hits five three-pointers in the game's final three minutes, as Paul George did, you won't soon forget that. But a strange thing happened as George was hitting miracle shot after miracle shot after miracle shot: he never got the Pacers over the hump, and Portland, even with one sloppy sequence, never truly creaked. Here George was bailing water like his arms were operating in fast-forward and there the Blazers were dumping it right back on top of him.</p>
<p>George's first three-pointer of the final sequence cut Portland's lead to four; at the buzzer, after his fifth three-pointer of the sequence (and seventh of the game), Portland's lead was, still, four points. This was one of the greatest hamster wheels of our time.</p>
<p>The Blazers held on in the closing seconds thanks to some solid free-throw shooting, but LaMarcus Aldridge and Damian Lillard positioned things for the victory by countering George down the stretch, unmoved by his heroics. Stotts called it "mental toughness" and it was definitely that, but there was also a joy, a child-like "anything you can do, we can do better" response that carried through those final minutes.</p>
<p>Aldridge, needing a hoop, went directly at Roy Hibbert, the early favorite for 2014 Defensive Player of the Year, to draw two free throws. Aldridge, needing a hoop, went directly at Hibbert again, drawing more free throws. Aldridge, needing a hoop, went to his ever-reliable jumper. He finished with 28 points (on 11-for-19 shooting), 10 rebounds and three assists, and those six points in four possessions kept Portland clear of a collapse.</p>
<p>"I've been with this guy for six years now," Blazers forward Nicolas Batum told Blazersedge, after calling Aldridge "almost unstoppable" down the stretch. "This is my sixth year with him. I've seen him growing every game and every day. He's playing the best basketball of his life. He's the best power forward in the league. He grew up."</p>
<p>On the season, Aldridge is now shooting 57.9 percent on long twos from his favorite spot, the left wing, an astounding figure that's 17 percent above the league average and almost exactly the same as his shooting percentage inside the restricted area. In other words, his 18-foot turnaround has become, for all intents and purposes, a lay-up.</p>
<p>"They mixed [their defense] up," Aldridge said. "They fronted, they tried to come big to big. I felt good tonight, I was trying to go to the basket, they were crowding me more tonight. It was one of those nights, where I had to make reads. If the big fella [Hibbert] was on me, I was taking my jump shot. If David West was on me, I was trying to go to the basket more."</p>
<p>Lillard, who added 26 points (on 7-for-17 shooting) and six rebounds, discarded the "almost" when told of Batum's "unstoppable" comment.</p>
<p>"I think he is [unstoppable]," Lillard told Blazersedge. "You've got a guy that can score over both shoulders, you can't get to his fadeaway. High release. Too tall. It's hard to stop. I haven't seen anybody stop him yet. Any time I throw it to him on the block, if he doesn't score, it's guaranteed we're going to get a good shot."</p>
<p>Although he struggled to finish in the paint and forced the issue on occasion, Lillard wasn't too bad himself. He scored seven points -- including a crucial three-pointer -- in the game's make-or-break final stretch, and his sometimes over-eager approach wound up paying dividends with 10 free-throw attempts, six of which came in the final period.</p>
<p>"I knew going in that their bigs like to sag off and protect the paint," he said, describing Indiana's preferred pick-and-roll coverage. "We ended up getting into the penalty early a lot. I just wanted to force it in there, get contact with the bigs, kind of force the issue at the rim. I was able to get some calls."</p>
<p>The incessant whistles were the only blemish on the night; the referees seemed determined to avoid any roughhousing, even though the only thing that came close was a minor exchange after Robin Lopez and Lance Stephenson became entangled. This was a draining game in which Aldridge and Lillard emerged as aggressors. It was Aldridge who twice doubled Hibbert over with a knee on drives to the hoop; it was Lillard who crashed to the court after accidentally leap-frogging George Hill early on, only to pick himself up for 37 minutes worth of punishment against one of the league's most physical teams.</p>
<p>George's spectacular flurry, and his attempted superstar shushing of the Moda Center crowd, will take a spot among the best performances the building has seen in recent years, but it was only one of the tests the Blazers stared down. Indiana established its style of play and held Portland to a season-low five three-pointers, but Portland probed from mid-range and got to the foul line at crucial junctures. The Pacers never trailed through three quarters, but the Blazers showed a certain resilience by staying within distance, and their second-unit had a nice kick early in the fourth that swung the scoreboard.</p>
<p>Still, the closing minutes were clearly the most impressive: things could have fallen apart for the Blazers ... and they just didn't.</p>
<p>"It's always easier at the house," Aldridge quipped.</p>
<p>Surviving George's heroics left the Blazers emboldened. They were no doubt impressed by what they had seen: Lillard called George an "MVP caliber" player and Batum referred to him as a "top five MVP candidate right now." They hadn't flinched, though, a fact that they believed reinforced their approaches on both offense and defense.</p>
<p>"He was almost by himself at the end," Batum said, contrasting that with Portland's attack, which saw all five Blazers starters score down the stretch. Lillard noted that, "everything [George] got, he worked for," an approval of Portland's perimeter defense that was generally shared by everyone. Matthews pointed out that Portland was willing to "play the odds" with George because "no one else was able to get a rhythm or a flow," as the rest of the Pacers combined to make just four field goals in the fourth quarter.</p>
<p>In other words: if you play together on offense and play hard on defense, good things can happen, even against an elite team and even when an A-list talent has a career night. Portland's end-game steadiness and the post-game reaffirmation -- holding up under adversity and then later pinpointing why -- combined to make this a statement game, even if Stotts' personal code would have him reject that conclusion publicly.</p>
<p>"It was [a statement game]," Lillard told Blazersedge, seconding Matthews. "We played some games where people [said] we haven't played good teams, there's always going to be some type of question mark. I think tonight's win just showed that we're really a good team."</p>
<p>The statement made against the Pacers is that, yes, the Blazers are "for real," or at least "for real" enough that it's time to stop asking whether they are "for real." The statement made against the Pacers is that it's high time for a new, overarching question to steer the discourse around this team: "What's Portland's ceiling?"</p>
<p><b><u>Random Game Notes</u></b></p>
<ul>
<li>The attendance was announced at 19,023. Despite Paul George's instructions, the building was very loud throughout the second half.</li>
<li>Here's the game highlights via YouTube user <strong>DennisOnBasketball</strong>.</li>
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<p><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hV_w7l330z8?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
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<li>Here's Paul George's highlight reel via YouTube user <strong>Maxa711Clips</strong>.</li>
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<p><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hwcE6DIfm2o?rel=0" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<ul>
<li>Roy Hibbert joked that he's going to be "wearing a cup" next time he plays against Aldridge after taking two knees to the groin. He even <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/Hoya2aPacer/status/407755703864942592">tweeted a photo of a cup for effect</a>. Aldridge <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/aldridge_12/status/407756016332197889">replied</a>, saying that he didn't do it on purpose. Hibbert then <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/Hoya2aPacer/status/407757124983222273">responded</a>: "We will see each other in the Finals."</li>
<li>Seeing even one empty seat -- let alone 1,000 -- for a game like this (and two teams playing like this) feels wrong in every non-rational, non-business way. If you were a kid and this was your first NBA game, you would be hooked for life and you wouldn't have any say in the matter! Sorry, a crippling life-long basketball addiction is now your lot. Hopefully the next generation has premium cable.</li>
<li>We did learn that there is, in fact, a limit to the corporate influence. This game was so intense that the jumbotron didn't even show the "Mick-ee-dees" graphic when Portland hit 98 points. Without any instructions, the crowd just kept cheering and completely ignored the "Cha-Lu-Pa" chant as well. </li>
<li>As you all know, I love the "Cha-Lu-Pa" chant way too much, but there's no question this was the ideal outcome. The jumbotron did show the McDonald's logo after Portland topped 100, which was the right and logical compromise. This should become the standard of conduct for close games. </li>
<li>I guess this means the "Cha-Lu-Pa" chant is technically no longer undefeated this season.</li>
<li><terry href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5167730/blazers-terry-stotts-named-western-conference-coach-of-the-month-for" target="_blank">Terry Stotts discussed his Coach of the Month award during his pre-game availability, via <b>Erik Gundersen</b> of <b>The Columbian</b>: "It feels good. More than anything else, awards like this, it's a team award. Player of the Month, those guys are making the baskets but when you win an award like this...The players did a great job this month, my staff did a great job. We stayed healthy because of our health and performance department. This is definitely a team award."</terry></li>
<li>The Blazers' pre-game graphics played up Portland's "Best in the West" record and Stotts' introduction included a Coach of the Month mention.</li>
<li>Olympian Galen Rupp was in attendance. They played NBC's Olympics theme song when they showed him on the jumbotron, which was nice. </li>
<li>The best jumbotron bit involved the Blazers discussing their favorite rivalries. Most of the team went for college basketball (UNC vs. Duke) or college football (Texas vs. Oklahoma) rivalries while Nicolas Batum (Real Madrid vs. Barcelona) and Joel Freeland (Tottenham vs. Arsenal) opted for soccer. Victor Claver went for two tennis players, which drew some laughs. The whole thing ended with Mo Williams talking up his Alabama team before they showed video of Auburn's 109-yard field goal run-back touchdown from Saturday. Williams watched on the jumbotron before receiving a conciliatory handshake from Damian Lillard.</li>
<li>Best sign: "Call us butter 'cause we're on a roll."</li>
<li> <b>Portlandia's Carrie Brownstein</b> has serious juice: she was in the locker room during the media's post-game session. Rarely (!) does that happen.</li>
<li>Pacers assistant (and former Blazers coach) Nate McMillan was shown on the jumbotron just after halftime and he was greeted with applause, including a partial standing ovation.</li>
<li>One fan's sign read: "Sorry to spoil your return, Nate."</li>
<li>Damian Lillard on the closing stretch: "We've just got to control what we can control. [George] is hitting threes with two hands in his face, fading away, that just shows how good of a player he is. That was out of our control at that point. Guys are defending to the best of their ability and he's still making shots. We've got to do a good job of what we can control, execute on offense, get good shots, everything he got he worked for it. We did our job."</li>
<li>Aldridge on the meaning of the win: "This was a big test for us. They play a slow, grind it out game. They don't do anything tricky. They are physical, they do the same thing every night. We knew they were going to be consistent and they played well. We stayed with our defense."</li>
<li>Nicolas Batum on the team's post-game reaction: "We were happy but not that excited."</li>
<li>The Blazers collectively have a lot of respect for the Pacers' No. 1 ranked defense. Batum: "We knew it was going to be a tough game against the best defensive team in the league. Their numbers are historic numbers on defense. We scored like 100-something points when this team allows 86."</li>
<li>As mentioned, the national praise was lining up after this win. <b>Bill Simmons</b> (<a href="https://twitter.com/BillSimmons/status/407742232901345280" target="_blank">here</a>): "Rip City just threw its hat in the ring."</li>
<li> <b>David Aldridge</b> (<a href="https://twitter.com/daldridgetnt/status/407742407803805697" target="_blank">here</a>): "Anybody fly nonstop between Indianapolis and Portland? #justaskin"</li>
<li> <b>Reggie Miller</b> (<a href="https://twitter.com/ReggieMillerTNT/status/407740713208516608" target="_blank">here</a>): "Way way way early, SOOOOOO many games left, but I wouldn't mind 7 games of Pacers-Blazers Finals.. World wouldn't, purist would...."</li>
<li> <b>Joe Swide</b> of <b>Portland Roundball Society</b> had an entertaining (and excited) <a target="_blank" href="http://www.portlandroundballsociety.com/trail-blazers-106-pacers-102-where-to-send-feeling-of-invincibility/">post-game write-up</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p><b><u>Terry Stotts' Post-Game Comments</u></b></p>
<p><b>Opening comments</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>That was a terrific basketball game. I thought both teams really played at a high level. They kind of mirrored each other as far as style of play, particularly defensively. Neither team really caved in. Paul George put on a performance that was extremely impressive, but I was very proud of our team, very proud of everybody that played. We did a lot of good things and beat a quality team.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Pacers are tough team, you matched that</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>You don't win in this league without being tough. I think toughness goes well past physical toughness, mental toughness to fight through. In the third quarter, we got down, got a slow start, didn't look like it was going much, but I think we've shown some mental toughness throughout the season so far. I think mental toughness in this league is as important or more important than physical toughness.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Best game</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Going through it, but yeah -- we played a very good game against San Antonio. A lot of times you look at the quality of the opponent, obviously San Antonio and Indiana are two of the best teams in the league, if not the best. You'd have to put those in that category.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Defensively too</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Playing this style of game, basically we played their style of game and we won the game. San Antonio was a high scoring game. I don't know about style points and all that, offense, defense, I think it's just important to figure out how to win a game.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Bench play to start the fourth</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The bench play, the beginning of the fourth, Joel [Freeland], [Thomas Robinson], Mo [Williams], Dorell [Wright], that group was playing in flow, getting stops. Really I thought it got the crowd into the game, I thought the crowd really showed their appreciation when each guy came out of the game. In a physical, draining game like this, to give our starters an extra breather on the bench was really valuable.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Played their style, did you think that would be a winning formula?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Basically I'm saying both teams played a good defensive game. If you had told me before the game that we were going to play a good defensive game, I would have said, 'Yeah, we have a chance.'</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Slow pace</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>We tried to push the pace but they lead the league in giving up the fewest fast break points. It's tough to push the pace. I thought we made our run when we were able to push the ball and play in flow. We didn't get easy baskets but we weren't playing against their set halfcourt defense either.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Mental toughness, keeping it together down the stretch</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>You know when you play good defense and a guy makes a great shot. When guys do that, you tip your hat. You did what you're supposed to do and great players in this league do those type of things. I thought that we -- and he did that at the outset when he made his first 10 or 12 points, I thought those were equally tough shots. When you're playing great scorers or great shooters like that, you just have to keep competing, knowing they are going to make some of those. You just have to get back up, next time they come down, do the same thing.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>LaMarcus Aldridge</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>LaMarcus was LaMarcus. I can say the thing I say most nights: he's the anchor on offense, he creates problems, he creates opportunities, I liked the way he took the ball to the basket and got to the free throw line. Defensively, I've said this for a long time, he's extremely underrated as a defender. He executes all of our screens, he talks, he's long, he protects the paint, I thought he did all of those things tonight.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Attacking the paint, going at Roy Hibbert</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The gameplan was to be aggressive, however that came. LaMarcus was aggressive on those couple drives, involving Hibbert in pick-and-rolls was part of the gameplan. Once you get there you have to make the right read. If you make the wrong read, he's going to make a good defensive play. That's where the talent and the decision-making comes in.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Trying to manufacture tempo, push pace</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>It's difficult to do after makes because you get a little deflated because a team scores. It's difficult to do after makes. We want to continue to do that. It's difficult to do against a team that grinds it out like Indiana. You really try to emphasize it and do as much as you can.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Closed gap to best record in the league</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>I'm pleased with our record, how's that?</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Validation from this win?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Beating a quality team is important. You don't win a championship with one game. The season isn't even a quarter through. What I'm pleased about is our growth as a team, the process we're going through, the consistency. I will say this -- I thought this was our most consistent game from beginning to end, with execution, effort, mental focus, all those things. I don't think you make statement games or anything like that in December. We beat a good team at home, it's something to be proud of but we've got another great team coming in on Wednesday. We just have to keep rolling along.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>-- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | <a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blazersedge">Twitter</a></p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/3/5168560/media-row-report-blazers-106-pacers-102Ben Golliver2013-12-02T23:40:43-08:002013-12-02T23:40:43-08:00Blazers Outpace Indiana For Big Win
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<figcaption>Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Portland Trail Blazers survived great defense and a last-minute flurry of Paul George triples to down the Indiana Pacers 106-102 on Monday night, pushing Portland's record to 15-3, atop the Western Conference standings and 2nd overall in the NBA.</p> <p>OK, before we say anything else...my God, what a game this was. If you have not seen it you must immediately go beg, borrow, or steal any copy you can get your hands on. I say that less as a Blazers partisan (though the Blazers did indeed win it) and more as somebody who has watched his share of mediocre basketball games. This is why following the NBA is worthwhile. You can get excitement and scoring in almost any league around the world, but seeing two really good professional teams play at a high level, making adjustment after adjustment to counter each other...that's a rare treat. If you're any kind of a basketball purist, this game is must-see.</p>
<p>Now, how did the Blazers come away with the 106-102 victory? Well...</p>
<p>Unlike many teams Portland has faced this season, the <a href="https://www.indycornrows.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Indiana Pacers</a> demonstrated that they had scouted the Blazers and intended to press the right buttons all night long. From the opening tip they forced action towards the center position on either end of the floor. They started out by dumping the ball to <span>Roy Hibbert</span>, first high and then low, making Robin Lopez alternate between good defense, fouling, and having to range outside his comfort zone. Indiana's plans were foiled somewhat by Hibbert missing his inside attempts, the start of an on-and-off night for him. But the theory was solid. On the other end, Indiana cut off three-point shooters and used extra men to force the ball out of the hands of anybody who penetrated with the dribble. The guy they chose to leave open? Lopez. Robin hit a couple shots but again the results were going to be potluck. Indiana didn't build a big lead early but the opening moves of the chess match were as solid as you could get. Portland was in for a contest.</p>
<div class="floated-video">
<iframe src="https://www.blazersedge.com/videos/iframe?id=36845" frameborder="0" seamless="true" marginwidth="0" mozallowfullscreen="true" webkitallowfullscreen="true" name="36845-chorus-video-iframe"></iframe> <em>B-Ball Breakdown</em>
</div>
<p>The Blazers rebuttal involved forcing turnovers on defense and running the ball through <span>LaMarcus Aldridge</span> on offense. Aldridge provided the only steady offense Portland would find in the first half. Both jumper and post moves were solid. Other than LMA, Portland's attack involved plenty of dribbling and one-on-one heroics to mixed results. Meanwhile Indiana countered Aldridge's offense by pulling their power forwards--first <span>David West</span> and later Luis Scola--outside to hit face-up jumpers. Every time Aldridge would hit a great shot on one end they'd strike back with the power forward "J" on the other. And back and forth it went for most of the first half. Indiana would inch ahead. Portland would reel them back. The Pacers pressed an advantage on the boards and rode the back of <span>Paul George</span> but then they'd give it back with their bench or by letting Portland's guards see a little daylight. The score was 46-45 for the Pacers at halftime. The chess match would continue.</p>
<p>Now before we get to the fun stuff for Blazers fans, let me say this. If you want to see a <i>clinic</i> on how to defend--in general, yes, but specifically against Portland--watch the first six minutes of the second half of this game. Indiana closed down the three-point arc, closed down the lane, rebounded the ball, forced the Blazers into turnovers, and kept Portland shooting the mid-range jumpers that the Blazers desperately want their opponents to shoot. We've seen other teams ground and pound Portland using low-post <i>offense</i>, but this was the Pacers slapping a submission hold on the Blazers with <i>defense</i>. Portland usually absorbs punches and gets back up, but when they went down 8 with 4:00 left in the third and Indiana in seeming control, things looked dire.</p>
<p>Yet the Blazers managed to wiggle out. <span>Wesley Matthews</span> took advantage of Indy's one weak spot tonight: guard play. He drove on <span>Lance Stephenson</span> and Orlando Johnson, making layups, drawing fouls, or both. That opened a crack of daylight. Then the Blazers shook it off and reversed the hold with a little more Aldridge action. All of a sudden 8 points looked like just 8 points instead of the first crack of a bone breaking. Portland closed the gap completely by the end of the quarter, tying the game at 72. Both combatants faced each other again, on their feet and ready for the deciding round.</p>
<p>Maybe "almost ready" would be a better description. In the closing minutes of the third and through the early fourth it became apparent that Indiana was running on fumes, especially their bigs. David West and Roy Hibbert both walked down the court as if they were carrying luggage through the airport. A moving sidewalk would have been faster. To their credit, they slowed down on offense. They hustled back defensively, but still they were playing halfway. The Pacers stopped going inside, shooting jumper after jumper. Their rebounding advantage faded. The Blazers smelled blood.</p>
<p>Figuring the goose-gander axiom was worth a shot, Portland started attacking Indiana's guard weakness in earnest. <span>Mo Williams</span> dribbled by defenders and tickled the twine with pull-ups. <span>Damian Lillard</span> chipped in, using screens to slingshot into position for open jumpers. Indiana's guards weren't getting around and their bigs were slow in getting over. When Lillard wasn't hitting the "J" he was driving and drawing foul shots. The two-headed guard attack put Portland into winning position and a return to Aldridge for the <i>coup de grace</i> nearly sealed the deal. Portland led by 8 with 6 minutes to go, by 7 with 3:15 left.</p>
<p>That's when Paul George made like the Black Knight and started yelling, "It's just a flesh wound!" The Blazers foiled Indiana's defense again and again, scoring or drawing fouls every trip down the court. But Indy would not die because George came back and hit a three-pointer after all but 2 of Portland's 7 scoring trips in the final 3:15 of the game. Five three-pointers by George in that span almost gave Indiana a comeback that would have been compared to Reggie Miller's bomb-fest versus the <a href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Knicks</a>. But the Blazers kept their heads, made their free throws, and held the Pacers 4 points short. In the end, even the last-minute flurry only added to the savor of Portland's 106-102 victory.</p>
<p>The Pacers' defense held the Blazers to 13 three-point attempts and only 5 makes, a 38.5% clip. That's still a good rate for normal teams, but for Portland it's practically a drought. The Pacers also held Portland to only 6 offensive rebounds, another source of scoring cut off. But Portland returned the favor by keeping Indy to 30 points in the paint...a masterpiece by Portland standards. The Blazers dominated the foul line battle, attempting 33 free throws to 17 for Indiana, ending up +14 from the stripe. Some of those were intentional foul shots late, but even so the stat was huge in a game where Portland had to fight for every point prior to the 4th period.</p>
<p>Add it all up and you come away with the most satisfying victory of Portland's season so far. Since there have been 15 to choose from, that's saying something.</p>
<p><b>Individual Notes</b></p>
<p>LaMarcus Aldridge is a master of his craft. There's no other way to put it. Those who have worried about him not being a team leader or a true #1 option, look at what he's doing so far this season. He may not have been before, but he is right now and he was doubly so tonight. He was the only Blazer playing his normal game when the Pacers put the screws to Portland's offense. He scored 28 on 11-19 shooting, hit 6-8 free throws, and taught Roy Hibbert not to try and stop him on the way to the hoop by leading with his knee on the jump and taking out Hibbert's gall bladder twice. More impressively, Aldridge finished the game with a team-high 10 rebounds after being drawn away from the hoop for most of the first half.</p>
<p>Damian Lillard scored 26 tonight. The most impressive part of his offensive game came at the foul line where he went a perfect 10-10. Not settling for jumpers, attacking both his individual defender and the slow-rotating Pacers bigs in the second half proved a smart move. Lillard hit 2 of Portland's 5 three-pointers, dished 6 assists, and grabbed 5 rebounds.</p>
<p>Wesley Matthews didn't have his greatest game of the season BUT he took Lance Stephenson out of the game, driving on him and making the Pacers pay from the foul line. Matthews hit 4-5 free throws and 5-11 shots overall for 15 points. He was the lifeline for a while there in the third period.</p>
<p><span>Nicolas Batum</span> got worn out trying to guard Paul George, got shaken out of the offense by defending running at him whenever he thought about shooting the three or passing the ball, and basically had to make do with clawing at the Pacers wherever he could. He recorded 5 rebounds, 5 personal fouls, and 8 points tonight.</p>
<p>Robin Lopez also had to take what he could get. The Pacers stamped a target on his back and he earned 4 personal fouls trying to get it off. He had 7 boards and 8 points plus he didn't let Roy Hibbert score easily even when Hibbert got good position. Roy ended up 6-13. That looks pretty good, but he could have easily been 9-13 given his floor position on those shots. Lopez bothered him <i>just</i> enough and Hibbert got in his own head after that.</p>
<p>Mo Williams played an ineffective first half but made up for it by sticking the dagger in during the ultimately-decisive fourth-quarter run. He saw an opening, he went for it, he scored enough to keep Indiana on their heels. Williams ended up 6-12 with 13 points in 23 minutes. He had only 2 assists but it wasn't the night for him to be passing.</p>
<p><span>Joel Freeland</span> inherited <span>Robin Lopez's</span> target when he checked in the game and appeared a little overwhelmed by it at first. The Pacers went at him pretty methodically. But when Freeland gained his sea legs he did OK, getting in 4 rebounds and at least one of his trademark shoves in 16 minutes.</p>
<p><span>Dorell Wright</span> got 12 minutes, ranging from mostly invisible to getting eaten up on a couple of individual possessions.</p>
<p><span>Thomas Robinson</span> didn't care who the opponent was. He was just going to rebound. Which he did. He grabbed 5 boards in 11 minutes. He also hit 2-3 shots for 4 points, one jumper and one opportunity lay-in. He collected 3 personal fouls in that span too.</p>
<p>The Blazers get a day to rest up and then Oklahoma City comes to town on Wednesday for another big night.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://scores.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=400489133">Boxscore</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168538/final-pacers-blazers">Timmay's Instant Recap and Gameday Thread Review</a>...happy happy time!</p>
<p>Hopefully <a href="http://www.indycornrows.com/">Indy Cornrows</a> thinks this was just as good of a game as we do.</p>
<p>For those asking about the Jersey Contest, we're still working out a couple unexpected bugs. Keep in mind we had to re-code the whole system on short notice. It'll be back.</p>
<p>--Dave (blazersub@gmail.com)</p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169538/portland-trail-blazers-vs-indiana-pacers-paul-george-lamarcus-aldridgeDave Deckard2013-12-02T21:25:32-08:002013-12-02T21:25:32-08:00Final: Blazers Burn the Pacers, 106-102
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Zf_vPXmB2eOPkdFwJIH-DvBhQPQ=/0x62:4000x2729/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/24389777/20131202_kkt_ad3_987.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In an instant classic, the Portland Trail Blazers absorbed every shot the Indiana Pacers could offer, responding with a few haymakers of their own to beat the best team in the NBA.</p> <p>The Blazers were led by LaMarcus Aldridge's 28 points and 10 rebounds, and Damian Lillard's 26 points. Wesley Matthews added 15 points, Mo Williams had a big night off the bench with 13 points when the Blazers needed them.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://scores.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=400489133">Box Score</a></p>
<p><b>First Quarter:</b> Paul George hot early, Indy playing hard at both ends, Portland missing a lot of shots. After a rough previous game, Mo Williams had a better start to this game, hitting for 5 early points. The Blazers held their own against Indy, and kept the game close after a quarter.</p>
<p><b>Indiana 23, Portland 20</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Pacers are pushing the Blazers outside their comfortable spots. Gotta hand it to them.<br>by <b>T Darkstar </b></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Second Quarter:</b> Thomas Robinson has a good stretch, as the Blazers bench kept the game close only one game after a brutal run. The Pacers just couldn't push the lead past 5 points, as the Blazers dug in on defense, and Indy missed shots. After the holding pattern by the bench, the starters returned to try to close the gap late, and Batum's three-pointer cut the deficit to one.</p>
<p><b>Indiana 46, Portland 45</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>I'm happy with that half. We arent getting blown out, it's still our game to win. If we made some of those open easy shots we'd be leading by a lot.<br>by <b>cavejunctionblazer</b></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Third Quarter: </b>The Pacers often try to make their move in the third quarter, and tonight was no exception, as they slowed down the Blazers while pulling ahead by 8 at the halfway point. But they couldn't pull away, as a hybrid of Blazers starters and bench turned up the heat on the Pacers, and a nice pass from Batum to Joel Freeland led to a dunk and a tie game as the clock wound down! The teams went to the final quarter with nothing settled.</p>
<p><b>Indiana 72, Portland 72</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Hey Nate! Scrappy enough for ya?<br>by <b>occassia </b></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Fourth Quarter:</b> The Pacers start with a steal, but couldn't take advantage, and Lillard swished a three to give the Blazers the lead! And as the defense held back Indiana, Mo Williams hit consecutive shots to give the Blazers a 7 point lead. The Pacers took a timeout, and the crowd went nuts. But Indiana doesn't have the best record in the league for no reason, as they scored inside to stay close, but Matthews responded by swishing his first three-pointer of the game! But fouls were being called by the bucketful on both teams, and the game slowed into a free throw shooting contest. With 5 minutes left and the Blazers leading by 6, Lillard returned to complete the starting 5 again. The Pacers immediately made their push, cutting the lead to 4 on a layup. But at the other end, an angry Lance Stephenson fouled out after fighting Lopez for a loose ball. Indiana scored on consecutive possessions to cut the lead to 3 with less than four minutes left, and both teams braced for a crazy finish.</p>
<p>After Aldridge swished two free throws, Lillard did the same. But the Pacers won a loose ball under their hoop, and a George Hill three-pointer cut the lead back down to 4 with 2:48 left. Roy Hibbert fouled Aldridge, who hit swished two more free throws, but Paul George got open from downtown, and swished it. Now up by three, Aldridge took a tough turnaround... swish! Up by 5 with two minutes left. At the other end, with the shot clock winding down, George took a contested three... and hit it anyway. At the other end, Lillard had the same contested three against the shot clock... AND SWISHED IT! The Blazers led by 5 with one minute left! With 38 seconds left, after almost turning the ball over, Indiana called a timeout.</p>
<p>Indiana got the ball to David West for a jumper that bounced off the back of the rim. Every single player crashed the boards... and the ball came to Lillard, who got the ball to Batum for a foul. After he hit two free throws with 24 seconds left, the Pacers reached desperation mode, down 7 points. George immediately took a tough three.. and hit it. They then stole the inbound pass! George took another three... and missed it! Lillard got the rebound and headed to the line. Swish. Swish. Indiana took a timeout, and George hit yet another three with 9 seconds left. Wow. Batum went to the line in response, and hit one. Indy was out of miracles. And now the entire league knows about the Blazers.</p>
<p><b>What's Next:</b></p>
<p>After nearly a full month of playing in a new city for each game, the Blazers finally have a home stand, but it won't be easy. It continues Wednesday, as OKC comes into town. In the meantime, stay tuned later for analysis from Dave, and Ben's Media Row Report. -- Tim</p>
<p><b>Comments of the night!</b></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph18">Thanks to everyone who participates in our nightly Gameday Threads! I always quote a few favorites in the recap, but for a little extra fun, these were the most popular comments of the night based on number of recs:</p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<thead><tr>
<th width="60"># Recs</th> <th>Commenter</th> <th>Comment Link</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Timmay!">Timmay!</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201284795">I loved titling this post "The Top Two teams play tonight".</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/thankyouforblaze">thankyouforblaze</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201294857">[no title]</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Mantre7179">Mantre7179</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201283523">Go Blazers!!!!!!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/tiedyesteve">tiedyesteve</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201292281">Go Trailblazers!!!!!!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/thankyouforblaze">thankyouforblaze</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201298947">[no title]</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Arby">Arby</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201305823">Go Portland Trail Blazers!!!!!!!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Idog1976">Idog1976</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201293659">The Pacers will need a pacemaker</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/stevedan">stevedan</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201285263">A Blazers-Pacers finals this year would be</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Mortimer">Mortimer</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201333623">Stay limber and always be ready is all you can do</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/occassia">occassia</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201320925">[no title]</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/bustabucket">bustabucket</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201284443">Go Blazers!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/williamswonder">williamswonder</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201294979">Go Portland Trail Blazers, leaders of the Western Conference!!!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jkimva703">jkimva703</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201284005">When we win..</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Y5k">Y5k</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201344971">Confused, Contorted, and constipated!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SlickRick1987">SlickRick1987</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201349147">What a fantastic contest</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/thankyouforblaze">thankyouforblaze</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201334815">aaaaaaand Utah beat the Rockets</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/mittsabishy">mittsabishy</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201333929">2 soon</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/colbymac">colbymac</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201285389">I'm so excited!!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ozqb3">ozqb3</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201338719">What's an Orlando Johnson and why did it just hit that?</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jkimva703">jkimva703</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201284975">Yup</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jkimva703">jkimva703</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201284549">Overdue</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Biph">Biph</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201294379">I had a Laker Fan last year tell me he wished LA went after Melo rather than CP3 or Dwight</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/annthefan">annthefan</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201293779">Go Trail Blazers!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Blazing%20Chargers">Blazing Chargers</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201294069">Go Portland Trail Blazers!!!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Mortimer">Mortimer</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-half/in/4932065#201334207">If we lose it's cuz you did that</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ParticleAccelerator">ParticleAccelerator</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201330541">"The Mason Jar"</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SlimSteve">SlimSteve</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers/in/4932065#201296025">Go Paul Allen Sports Teams!</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168538/final-pacers-blazersTimmay!2013-12-02T20:08:34-08:002013-12-02T20:08:34-08:00CHAT: Close Battle Between First Place Teams!
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jqMWWKzuMT-10VMhOWgfgZS-ufs=/0x67:4000x2734/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/24386941/20131201_gav_sv5_82.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Blazers are within one at halftime of this epic battle between first place teams!</p> <div class="m-entry__body">
<p>[<b>Heads up!</b> If you'd like to chat about tonight's ongoing game for Paul Allen's other top-seeded team, the Seattle Seahawks, please head to out sister site Field Gulls, who have an <a target="_blank" href="http://www.fieldgulls.com/2013/12/2/5168062/seahawks-vs-saints-open-game-threads">ongoing Gameday Thread</a>!]</p>
<p>Welcome to the Gameday Open Thread at Blazer’s Edge! This is a place to hang out and enjoy tonight’s festivities with your fellow fans. Treat it as if you’re watching a game at the local watering hole, but hopefully without the language. Expect some disagreements, and a fair amount of changing emotions. But we'll get through it together.</p>
<div class="read-more">Watch: <a href="http://www.nba.com/leaguepass/" target="_blank">NBA League Pass</a><b> CSN NW</b><br> Listen: <a href="http://www.nba.com/broadband/alp_schedule.html" target="_blank">NBA Audio League Pass</a> <b>620am</b><br> Links: <a target="new" href="http://www.nba.com/gamenotes/blazers.pdf">Media Notes</a> <a target="new" href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/10/29/5044302/the-2013-guide-to-watching-the-blazers-on-tv-and-online">Viewing Guide</a> <a target="new" href="https://twitter.com/blazersedge">Updates on Twitter</a>
</div>
<p>-----------------</p>
<div class="m-entry__body">Injury Updates will be added here if necessary!<br>
</div>
<div class="m-entry__body"><br></div>
<p>-----------------</p>
<p>The usual Gameday Thread rules apply:</p>
<p>1. No swearing<br>2. No pictures<br>3. No discussion of unlicensed Internet streaming<br>4. Be cool to each other!</p>
<p>Hang out and enjoy the game! -- Tim</p>
</div>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5169180/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazers-second-halfTimmay!2013-12-02T17:30:01-08:002013-12-02T17:30:01-08:00CHAT: The Top Two NBA Teams Battle in Portland!
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8XyIo_ZNysSy8Y3jDO9tgqoIi-g=/0x1423:2300x2956/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/24369967/20130123_pjc_ad3_234.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>USA TODAY Sports Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Pacers have to lose again sooner or later, right?</p> <div class="m-entry__body">
<p>[<b>Heads up!</b> If you'd like to chat about tonight's ongoing game for Paul Allen's other top-seeded team, the Seattle Seahawks, please head to out sister site Field Gulls, who have an <a target="_blank" href="http://www.fieldgulls.com/2013/12/2/5168062/seahawks-vs-saints-open-game-threads">ongoing Gameday Thread</a>!]</p>
<p>Welcome to the Gameday Open Thread at Blazer’s Edge! This is a place to hang out and enjoy tonight’s festivities with your fellow fans. Treat it as if you’re watching a game at the local watering hole, but hopefully without the language. Expect some disagreements, and a fair amount of changing emotions. But we'll get through it together.</p>
<div class="read-more">Tip-off: <b>7:10pm</b><br> Watch: <a href="http://www.nba.com/leaguepass/" target="_blank">NBA League Pass</a><b> CSN NW</b><br> Listen: <a href="http://www.nba.com/broadband/alp_schedule.html" target="_blank">NBA Audio League Pass</a> <b>620am</b><br> Links: <a target="new" href="http://www.nba.com/gamenotes/blazers.pdf">Media Notes</a> <a target="new" href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2013/10/29/5044302/the-2013-guide-to-watching-the-blazers-on-tv-and-online">Viewing Guide</a> <a target="new" href="https://twitter.com/blazersedge">Updates on Twitter</a>
</div>
<p>-----------------</p>
<div class="m-entry__body">Injury Updates will be added here if necessary!<br>
</div>
<div class="m-entry__body"><br></div>
<p>-----------------</p>
<p>The usual Gameday Thread rules apply:</p>
<p>1. No swearing<br>2. No pictures<br>3. No discussion of unlicensed Internet streaming<br>4. Be cool to each other!</p>
<p>Hang out and enjoy the game! -- Tim</p>
</div>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2013/12/2/5168010/gameday-thread-pacers-vs-blazersTimmay!