Blazer's Edge - 2015 NBA Playoffs Round One: (5) Memphis Grizzlies vs (4) Portland Trail BlazersThe ultimate coverage and analysis of the Portland Trail Blazershttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47543/blazersedge-fave.png2015-05-03T09:30:21-07:00http://www.blazersedge.com/rss/stream/82109202015-05-03T09:30:21-07:002015-05-03T09:30:21-07:00Experiencing Blazer Playoff Desperation
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<p>A personal essay about Portland fans, the city, and the Moda Center</p> <p>Jamie Cooper of <a target="_blank" href="http://uproxx.com/dimemag/">Dime</a> takes an entertaining look at his experience covering the <a href="https://www.blazersedge.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Trail Blazers</a> in the post season. He calls it <a target="_blank" href="http://uproxx.com/dimemag/2015/05/inside-the-playoff-experience-at-portlands-moda-center/">The Sight of the Gallows</a>. It's a long essay with an introduction and three chapters.</p>
<p>In the Introduction he writes about the tenacity of the Portland fans from his viewpoint of having covered Portland the last two years each time they won a desperation game four:</p>
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<p>On both occasions, the Blazers played with a sense of urgency that had been inexplicably absent in each of the previous three games. Although, I suppose, as Samuel Johnson once alluded to, nothing focuses the mind quite like the sight of the gallows.</p>
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<p>Chapter 1 is about some of the pluses and minuses of the Moda Center and the city.</p>
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<p>In most NBA cities, it's a logistical nightmare getting in and out of an arena. Not here. Most folks leave their hybrid cars at home and hop the train, or just walk, and riding the Max to the game with hundreds of other delirious fans all decked out in the team's signature gear is a great way to get amped up.</p>
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<p>Mass marketing and consumerism is the subject of Chapter 2 and he reviews the Moda Center's efforts in this area.</p>
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<p>Some of it is actually kind of interesting, like the "Get to Know" spots that sometimes flash across the Jumbotron with fascinating and peculiar little tidbits of information about your favorite players. Such as the fact that Nicolas Batum's favorite food is Oreo cheesecake and that he's apparently under the impression that his nickname is Batman (?), or that Damian Lillard's favorite television show is Monk, all of which would indicate that the segment should be renamed "Things You Can't Unknow About Your Favorite Player."</p>
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<p>Chapter 3 covers the perks of having media access (no comment) including sitting in media row which evidently expands during the playoffs. This year Cooper got to sit next to a guy from the Memphis area and asked him how the FedEx Forum compared to the Moda Center.</p>
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<p>"[The FedEx Forum] gets just as loud," he said, "But there isn't the synergy that there is here."</p>
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<p>Since Cooper alluded to a Samuel Johnson quote (English Writer, 1709-1784) I was compelled to look at Bartlett's Familiar Quotations (because BE readers are literate) and this is the quote from September 19, 1777:</p>
<p>"Depend upon it, sir, when a man knows he is to be hanged in a fortnight, it concentrates his mind wonderfully."</p>
<p>This is an entertaining read, and many Blazer fans will likely identify with this quirky look at ourselves, our arena, and our city. Let us know in the comments what you think of Cooper's Portland experience!</p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/5/3/8536005/portland-trail-blazers-nba-playoffs-dimeRipCityAshland2015-05-02T13:04:48-07:002015-05-02T13:04:48-07:00Mailbag Podcast: Was This Season A Success?
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<p>The Blazer's Edge Weekend Podcast answers a few mailbag questions, and includes discussion of the Blazers' strategies against Memphis, the success of this season and a deeper look at Tim Frazier.</p> <p>The Blazer's Edge Weekend Podcast answers a few mailbag questions for Episode 34, and includes discussion of the Blazers' strategies against Memphis, the success of this season and a deeper look at Tim Frazier.</p>
<p>The direct .mp3 link is <a target="_blank" href="http://media.blubrry.com/blazersedge/ia601508.us.archive.org/16/items/BlazersEdgePodcast34/BlazersEdgePodcast34.mp3">here</a>.</p>
<p>You can subscribe to us on <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/blazersedgepodcast" target="_blank">Feedburner</a>, find us on <a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/phil-naessens/the-blazers-edge-podcast?refid=stpr" target="_blank">Stitcher</a>, or follow via <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/blazers-edge-podcast/id949238542?mt=2" target="_blank">iTunes</a>.</p>
<p>We're also on <a href="http://www.maxsportschannels.com/" target="_blank">Max Sports Channels</a> in the evenings.</p>
<p>Or just press play right here:</p>
<p><audio controls="controls"> <source src="http://media.blubrry.com/blazersedge/ia601508.us.archive.org/16/items/BlazersEdgePodcast34/BlazersEdgePodcast34.mp3"></source> </audio></p>
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<p>-- Chris Lucia | blazersedgepodcast@gmail.com | <a data-ref-index="11" target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/ChrisLucia_BE" style="background-color: #ffffff;">Twitter</a></p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/5/2/8536735/podcast-portland-trail-blazers-memphis-grizzlies-2015-nba-playoffsChris Lucia2015-04-30T00:45:36-07:002015-04-30T00:45:36-07:00Tantalizing, Frustrating Game Ends Season
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<p>The Blazers mix shockingly brilliant performances with shockingly bad in a narrow loss to the Grizzlies.</p> <p>The 2014-15 season ended for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blazersedge.com/">Portland Trail Blazers</a> tonight as they fell to the Memphis <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzlies</a> 99-93. To say their effort was brilliant and heroic would not do it justice. On the other hand "shockingly bad" describes it just as well. The Blazers couldn't decide whether they were spunky history-beaters trying to force a Game 6 against all odds or an injured, exhausted team just looking to go home. They ended up mixing both in a solution that never gelled. Slap Pauly Shore's face on the Mona Lisa and you'll get the idea. Brilliance kept the game close but flaws spoke louder, ending the series in 5.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>Game Flow</b></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The Blazers could not have diagrammed a worse start to this game if they had taken out a slide rule, a compass, and jammed one in each eye. Despite the proven success of fast, free-flowing offense against the Grizzlies in this series, Portland opened up with a matchup-based attack, forcing the ball to <span>LaMarcus Aldridge</span> and <span>Arron Afflalo</span>. The result: 3 turnovers and 1 point in the first 4:30 of the game. The Grizzlies feasted on mid-range jumpers and rushed to a 13-1 lead.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Thankfully the Blazers called a halt to the insanity. <span>Damian Lillard</span> and <span>CJ McCollum</span> drove the lane, converting on quick layups or drawing fouls. As the quarter progressed Memphis' bench players couldn't keep up the run their starters had begun. Lillard and McCollum scored 14 straight points while Memphis stalled. Despite Portland's comically bad start the game was tied at 20 after the first.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The Blazers have not played a single game in this series without blowing at least one quarter. Tonight was no exception. McCollum and Lillard hit 3 of the 4 shots they took during the second period. <span>Meyers Leonard</span> canned 1 of 2 three-pointers. Nobody else could hit to save their lives. When the Blazers weren't turning over the ball they were clanking it off the side of the rim (jump shooters) or missing the rim entirely (LaMarcus Aldridge). It was ghastly. Portland was lucky to escape with 19 points. That was 10 more than they deserved.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Fortunately Portland's defense was not as bad as the offense. Memphis' big players--<span>Marc Gasol</span>, <span>Zach Randolph</span>, Kosta Koufos--got bottled up by swarming Trail Blazers. But Portland could not secure a rebound to save their lives. Second chance after second chance allowed a struggling Grizzlies offense to produce points despite their miscues.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The Blazers were also the unfortunate recipients of Vince Carter's "Turn Back the Clock Quarter". When everybody else was covered, Carter made free at the rim with devastating layups and dunks. The last time I saw VC do that much damage I was watching "Platoon". Carter's 7 points in 6 minutes led the Grizzlies to 26 in the quarter and a 46-39 halftime lead.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">At this point the Blazers weren't just suffering from missed shots, but from missed opportunities. Turnovers and lack of rebounding kept them from getting up shot attempts, choking off their supply of points and rendering their defensive efforts moot. Something had to change or a good effort would be wasted.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Then came the third period and the advent of the one foretold, the young lad sent to lift the Blazers out of their misery. During halftime a star hovered over FedEx Arena and lo, at the 10:11 mark of the third period Trail Blazers Coach <span>Terry Stotts</span> did see it as Its rays touched the head of CJ McCollum. Then angels appeared unto the coaching staff, proclaiming, "Fear not, for we bring you heavenly tidings! The Lord Most High says unto you this day, 'What the hell are you doing leaving CJ on the bench??? Are you <i>trying</i> to lose? Get a clue!'"</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Then did the coaching staff fall on their knees in awe and wonder. But before they did Coach Stotts pointed McCollum towards the scorer's table.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Seriously, you can just play "O Holy Night" over CJ's third-period highlight clip. It fits perfectly. And you'll need the whole song just to cover his three-pointers.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As soon as he hit the floor McCollum sank 4 triples on his way to 16 points in the period. (Keep in mind the Blazers had only scored 19 total in the second.) Coupled with a three from Meyers Leonard and faint signs of life from Aldridge, McCollum's barrage sent Portland to a comparatively massive 27-point total.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Once again, Portland's defense flourished. They finally decided to guard the Memphis Grizzlies like they were the Memphis Grizzlies, peeling a defender off the perimeter to bother Gasol every time he headed into the paint. With a man in front of him and a man behind, Gasol did nothing but turn over the ball. Nor could Randolph score against the sagging defense. Memphis was left shooting long shots...not their specialty. They missed. And missed. The Blazers were on their way to taking control of this game.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Except... Except... Except...</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">They couldn't grab a rebound. <i>Again.</i></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Part of this was systemic. Collapsing the defense to the ball brings outside defenders in, but also brings inside defenders out. After shots went up, nobody seemed to know who was minding the shop under the rim. <i>Sans</i> security guards, the Grizzlies scooped up the ball and converted freebies while Blazers fans yelled, "Get out of our store!"</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Still, Memphis managed only 22 in the third and Portland trailed 68-66 going into the decisive frame.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Portland's defense held up through the early part of the fourth. They did a decent job of forcing the Grizzlies outside, or at least making their inside looks tough. But rebounding issues remained. The Blazers stayed alive by scoring at the rim with Aldridge, Lillard, and <span>Robin Lopez</span> contributing, but never made headway.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The score read 78-75 Memphis when Portland called a timeout with 5:35 remaining. Tension was thick. Everybody knew the game would be decided in the next couple minutes. Whoever made the first run would have the advantage.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Sadly for the Blazers, that team was the Grizzlies. The heretofore-silent <span>Jeff Green</span>--a Blazer-killer in the regular season but a non-entity in this series--scored 5 points in a minute, followed quickly by a jumper from Randolph. The Blazers countered this mini-explosion with a McCollum turnover, Aldridge getting his shot blocked, and a pair of missed threes.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">When the Blazers called timeout again, 2 minutes and 10 seconds after their last one, they were down 10.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Three-pointers from McCollum and Leonard kept the door open for a while but the Grizzlies guards picked that exact moment to begin hitting mid-range jumpers again. When they finally missed, the Blazers gave up yet another offensive rebound. The McCollum-Leonard threes ended up shaving nothing off the margin. Portland trailed by 9 with a minute remaining.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">From then on it was a game of desperation fouls and desperation shots. The Grizzlies ended up obliging Portland with missed free throws, shooting 10-14 from the line in the last 1:04. But Portland couldn't hit enough shots. Lillard and <span>Steve Blake</span> each hit threes in the last 30 seconds to pull the Blazers within 4 but <span>Courtney Lee</span> hit the ensuing foul shots and Gasol blocked <span>Nicolas Batum's</span> leaning attempt with 6 seconds remaining to seal the game. Memphis took the fourth quarter 31-27, the game 99-93, and the series crown 4-1.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>Analysis</b></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Portland held Memphis to 42% from the field tonight, a miserable 7% (1-14) from the three-point arc. It was clearly their smartest defensive effort of the series. Had the Blazers been able to secure a rebound it would have been enough to provide a win. But the Grizzlies ended up with 15 offensive boards. That single, massive flaw proved fatal.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Not that this was a classic Trail Blazers effort on the offensive end. It was downright weird, in fact. Damian Lillard scored 22 but the rest of the starters combined for only 24. The bench actually outscored the starters 47-46. The last time that happened was...never. Portland's reserves shot 17-30 (57%) while the starters managed only 16-52 (31%).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The Grizzlies limited the Blazers to 5 offensive boards and 30 points in the paint. They paid for it by allowing Portland to shoot 40% (13-33) from the three-point arc. It was a near thing but the trade-off ended up being worth it.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Though the Blazers had a chance in this tantalizing, frustrating game, their fans can't be too upset about the way the series turned out. The Grizzlies played more consistently, played harder for longer, and executed better. They were the superior team. The Blazers appeared to be learning how to defend, and even score on, their opponents. But that knowledge didn't come quickly enough and frankly the team looked too tired and discombobulated to put it into action.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">One team tonight played imperfectly but with their famous grit. One team played imperfectly and looked like they were just hanging on, desperately riding a surge from their bench players and praying it was enough. It wasn't. Desperate teams seldom emerge victorious from 7-game series anyway. There's plenty to rue about this series, but little to complain about.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b>Individual Notes</b></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">LaMarcus Aldridge played his worst game of the series, shooting 5-18 for 14 points with 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. His defense was masterful once again in spurts, but he wasn't the force we're used to seeing. Part of that was Memphis' amazing defense. They bottled up Aldridge like nobody else has, forcing him to dribble into traffic repeatedly...not his strength. But even when his shots came clean his release wasn't normal. It looked like his thumbs had finally given out. He couldn't control the ball and he often missed wildly. It was not a pretty end to his season.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">In hindsight Aldridge might have served his team better by getting surgery back in January and coming full-strength into the post-season. But it's impossible to do anything but applaud him for his effort and irreplaceable production this year. The Blazers tried to win without him all series long. That they couldn't manage it tells you what kind of player Aldridge is and how much he means to this team.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Damian Lillard was the definition of "mixed blessing" in this game. He scored 22...the only starter to produce points. He was impressive in the lane. But he missed 7 of 8 three-pointers, a chronic problem in this series. Plus he was a turnover waiting to happen, committing 6 and never looking completely secure with the ball, his handle, or his footing. The Blazers tried to hide Damian on defense, switching him to Courtney Lee for parts of the game. It didn't work.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It's hard to fault Nicolas Batum when the boxscore reads 10 rebounds and 7 assists but we're going to anyway. He missed wide...open...shots all night, putting undue pressure on his teammates. Aldridge missing was bad enough, but Batum's bricks added on top were near intolerable. He scored 6 points on 2-12 shooting, 1-7 from the arc.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As was true every game of the series but one, when the Blazers needed a shot in the arm Batum wasn't there. His play ranged from occasionally-inspired to occasionally-awful, landing mostly on "didn't matter". It was a fitting ending to a season that was mostly slump. Both Batum and the Blazers will need to do some serious thinking about his future this summer. He's only 26 but he just completed his 7th season, one of his worst. Ironically this in one of the best set-ups he's ever had. Something needs to change.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Robin Lopez played 18 minutes, once again doing his best but once again finding his contributions blunted by the opponent's playing style. The Blazers have had a hard look at Lopez's gifts and limitations now. He's the kind of guy you want on your team forever but he's probably not the only center you want to be depending on to get you through the playoffs. Too many good teams have a counter for him.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Arron Afflalo played 14 minutes, missed both his shots, and didn't look like he was that healthy. This was a disappointing end to the season for him.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">On the very, very bright side CJ McCollum scored 33 points on 12-20 shooting, 7-11 from distance. It was one of the most memorable playoff performances in Blazers history, probably among the top 3-4 from a bench player. CJ has come alive. The caveat here comes in the exuberance with which people say, "CJ can be a starting shooting guard (or star) now." This was one game. It came on the tail end of a good run at the end of the season, but it was one game nonetheless. People are going to dog Damian Lillard for his performance in this series, questioning his fitness. Keep in mind that Lillard has accomplished far more than McCollum has in this league. If Damian's not a guarantee after all we've seen, CJ shouldn't be labeled one yet either. But there's far more hope surrounding McCollum now than at any time in his career.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Ditto Meyers Leonard. He shot 3-6, 3-5 from distance for 9 points in 32 minutes. His contributions go beyond the numbers, though. Memphis had to respect him after he hit his first couple shots, opening the floor for McCollum and company. Meyers' fresh legs and "go for it" attitude were a boon in this series. 6 fouls and only 4 rebounds toinght provide counterpoint. Leonard isn't all the way baked yet. But he's solidifying. Flipping on the light and peeking inside the oven, it looks like the end product could be tasty. It's certainly better than the lumpy, gooey mess we were talking about at this time last year.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Steve Blake played 6 minutes and hit his first 2 shots of the season. His defense wasn't bad either.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span>Chris Kaman</span> played 5 minutes with 2 rebounds. He looked awkward, he looked like he wasn't feeling 100%, and either way Meyers took his jerb.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And that's the season, folks. Beginning tomorrow we're going to begin discussing the hottest issues of the off-season, including the one on everybody's mind. You're not going to want to miss that. Plus we'll have a season recap, player reviews, and a heck of a lot more in store for you.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">A shout-out to Timmay, Ryan, Sagar, Dylan, Eric, and everybody who's kept our Game Night experience running this year, plus Peter, Bryan, Arthur, and everyone who's provided In-Arena Reports. They get to rest until October, but for the rest of us the work is just beginning. It's going to be one heck of a summer. We're glad you're along for the ride.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Huge thanks to everyone who stopped by those GameDay threads to leave a comment as well, and special props to akicks who leaves us with this <a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/29/8519573/portland-trail-blazers-2015-nba-playoffs-last-jumper" target="_blank">wonderful commemoration of the season</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=400790960" target="_blank">Boxscore</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/29/8519025/blazers-vs-grizzlies-2015-nba-playoffs-score-portland-eliminated" target="_blank">Instant Recap</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">If you go to <a href="http://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzly Bear Blues</a>, offer them congratulations and best wishes. Their team played really well. Plus thanks to the folks from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.goldenstateofmind.com/">Golden State of Mind</a> who joined our GameDay thread this evening. We'll return the favor sometime next season.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">You'll be able to catch me on Oregon Public Broadcasting radio tomorrow morning at 7:45. Or drop by at noon for the first of a couple important and definitive LaMarcus Aldridge articles.</p>
<p>--Dave blazersub@gmail.com / <a href="https://twitter.com/davedeckard" target="_blank">@DaveDeckard</a> / <a href="https://twitter.com/blazersedge" target="_blank">@Blazersedge</a></p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/30/8519623/portland-trail-blazers-vs-memphis-grizzlies-lamarcus-aldridgeDave Deckard2015-04-29T21:52:18-07:002015-04-29T21:52:18-07:00End of Season Portrait: "The Last Jumper"
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<p>Blazer's Edge reader ackicks saves his best portrait for last as the Trail Blazers exit the 2014-15 NBA season.</p> <p>Blazer's Edge reader ackicks has graced our site with his fine work all season long. He's become a legend with his Photoshop portraits of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blazersedge.com/">Trail Blazers</a> Head Coach Terry Stotts, which can be found in their entirety at <a target="_blank" href="http://akicks.tumblr.com/">his Tumblr site</a>.</p>
<p>Our dear friend and morale-raiser has saved his best work for last, commemorating the close of the 2014-15 season with "The Last Jumper"</p>
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<p>If that doesn't bring a tear to your eye, nothing will. We thank akicks for his contributions and creativity. You'll see more of his work here over the summer!</p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/29/8519573/portland-trail-blazers-2015-nba-playoffs-last-jumperDave DeckardPaul Navarre2015-04-29T21:27:00-07:002015-04-29T21:27:00-07:00Grizzlies Eliminate Blazers From The 2015 Playoffs
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<p>Behind CJ McCollum, the Portland Trail Blazers made a valiant effort, but came up short down the stretch against the Memphis Grizzlies.</p> <p>The Blazers were led by CJ McCollum's 33 points on 7-11 from three. Unfortunately, that's the whole list of leaders; the rest of the Blazers scored minimal points or had poor shooting nights. McCollum personally kept the Blazers close all night, but it wasn't enough without a supporting cast.</p>
<p>LaMarcus Aldridge finished with 14 points on 5-18 shooting, and Damian Lillard added 22 points on 8-19 shooting; it was 6-16 before being padded by some late layups uncontested by the Grizz. No other Blazers scored in double figures.</p>
<p><b>First Quarter:</b> Yet another terrible Blazers start to open the game. They had turnovers on the first two possessions, while the Grizzlies quickly opened shooting 4-5. Portland needed an early timeout, down 8-0 already. The timeout didn't help, as Aldridge fell down and turned the ball over on the next possession, and soon Portland was down 13-1 and the rout looked imminent. But as CJ McCollum and Meyers Leonard arrived, Portland pushed back, closing the deficit to 18-15 late in the first. They made another push late in the first, as the the lane opened up and the Blazers took advantage. McCollum's jumper tied the game at 20 as the quarter came to a close. Lillard, McCollum and Batum scored all the Blazers' points.</p>
<p><b>Second Quarter: </b>The Blazers came alive, taking a 4 point lead while spreading around the scoring. But it didn't last long, as Memphis regained control after a timeout. The teams battled back and forth, exchanging the lead for most of the quarter. But every Portland shot rimmed out loud, and Vince Carter came alive, leading the Grizzlies to a 7 point halftime lead.</p>
<p><b>Third Quarter: </b>The Blazers came out with their normal starting lineup. The result was the same: Within minutes, Memphis pushed their lead to 13. Lopez, called for multiple fouls within minutes, was forced out of the game. But, with help from a flagrant foul by Zach Randolph, the Blazers scored 8 quick points to cut the Memphis lead to 5. That was as close as things got, as the Grizzlies stormed out of the timeout to restore their lead. But they didn't count on McCollum, who carried the team on his back, scoring nearly at will to pull the Blazers into a tie, then a three-point lead, forcing a Memphis timeout. They took back the lead out of the timeout (a familiar refrain), and held on for a 2 point advantage heading to the fourth.</p>
<p><b>Fourth Quarter: </b>More struggles for the Blazers, as Memphis continued to hold a slim lead. Portland couldn't get defensive rebounds, and turned it over when they grabbed the board. At the halfway point, Memphis held a slim 1 point lead, and both teams were struggling to score. But while Portland missed shot after shot, Memphis found their stroke, and started hitting like crazy. With 3:30 left, Memphis took a 10 point lead, and Portland was stuck playing out the clock as a promising season came to an end.</p>
<p>Thanks to all who read Blazer's Edge Gameday Coverage this season. Stay tuned, as there will be plenty of coverage to come this summer for free agency, draft, and Summer League before the players report in September.</p>
<p><b>Port-Game Reaction</b></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RipCity?src=hash">#RipCity</a>... <a href="https://t.co/D8Rt6p7rTL">https://t.co/D8Rt6p7rTL</a></p>
— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dame_Lillard/status/593673817827975168">April 30, 2015</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nic Batum knows he will be bashed for poor season: "I understand that ... I understand why people will get mad. I'm the first to get mad.''</p>
— Jason Quick (@jwquick) <a href="https://twitter.com/jwquick/status/593646229042515969">April 30, 2015</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Aldridge said he'll have his left hand checked soon. Said there's a 20% chance it healed on its own, if not he'll have surgery.</p>
— Mike Richman (@mikegrich) <a href="https://twitter.com/mikegrich/status/593647152489869312">April 30, 2015</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hardest thing for LaMarcus Aldridge to digest after series: "That we never played our best basketball. I didn't play my best basketball''</p>
— Jason Quick (@jwquick) <a href="https://twitter.com/jwquick/status/593647252024860673">April 30, 2015</a>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dame and Meyers hit the road. <a href="http://t.co/LEKfS5URhP">pic.twitter.com/LEKfS5URhP</a></p>
— Bruce Ely (@bruceely) <a href="https://twitter.com/bruceely/status/593649124639113216">April 30, 2015</a>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"We just wanted to leave it all on the court." -<a href="https://twitter.com/CJMcCollum">@CJMcCollum</a> Watch " <a href="http://t.co/dzHDtApDUD">http://t.co/dzHDtApDUD</a> <a href="http://t.co/fZcR2MhMqD">pic.twitter.com/fZcR2MhMqD</a></p>
— Rip City (@RipCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/RipCity/status/593648622484369408">April 30, 2015</a>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"This season was a very special season." -Coach Stotts Watch " <a href="http://t.co/UfQhVdqCMx">http://t.co/UfQhVdqCMx</a> <a href="http://t.co/QrytWn2MCq">pic.twitter.com/QrytWn2MCq</a></p>
— Rip City (@RipCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/RipCity/status/593647371268988928">April 30, 2015</a>
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https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/29/8519025/blazers-vs-grizzlies-2015-nba-playoffs-score-portland-eliminatedTimmay!2015-04-29T19:54:45-07:002015-04-29T19:54:45-07:00Chat: Blazers Need To Come From Behind To Survive
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<figcaption>Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p class="pgh-paragraph has-dropcap" id="paragraph0"><b>UPDATE: </b>The Grizzlies lead the Blazers by 7 at the half. Hang out here and discuss what may be the last half of the Blazers' season.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph has-dropcap">------</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph has-dropcap">The <a data-ref-index="5" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blazersedge.com/">Portland Trail Blazers</a> beat the <a data-ref-index="6" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Memphis Grizzlies</a> in Game 4 Monday night to stave off elimination, cutting the Grizzlies series lead to 3-1. But the series shifts back to Memphis.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph1">Portland hopes to use their formula for Game 4 success to continue shifting momentum, and hope to push to a Game 6 back in Portland. No NBA team has come back from a 3-0 deficit, and the last team to push an opponent to a seventh game was the 2003 Portland Trail Blazers, against the <a data-ref-index="7" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.mavsmoneyball.com/">Dallas Mavericks</a>.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph2"><span>Arron Afflalo</span> and <span>Chris Kaman</span> are expected to play for the Blazers tonight. <span>Mike Conley</span> will not play after getting surgery due to a facial fracture suffered in Game 3. <span>Beno Udrih</span> is likely to play for Memphis.</p>
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<h4>How To Watch Portland Trail Blazers vs. Memphis Grizzlies:</h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph3"><b>Location: </b>FedEx Forum, Memphis TN</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph4"><b>Time:</b> 6:30 pm, PDT</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph5"><b>TV: </b>TNT | KGW (in Portland)</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph6"><b>Online Streaming:</b> <a data-ref-index="12" target="_blank" href="http://www.tntdrama.com/watchtnt/">WatchTNT</a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph7"><b>Radio:</b> Rip City Radio, 620 am</p>
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https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/29/8519273/2015-nba-playoffs-game-5-thread-portland-trail-blazers-vs-memphisTimmay!2015-04-29T09:08:57-07:002015-04-29T09:08:57-07:00Meyers + Transition + Middle = Points
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<figcaption>Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Even with Meyers on the floor, Portland hasn't figured out how to score on Memphis' set defense. However, they used the Meyers' effect in transition and when attacking the middle of the floor to create easy looks at the basket. </p> <p>Through game three, the Blazers offense was an anemic disaster. Blown layups, embarrassing turnovers, and missed shots from the outside. It was all there. They had an offensive rating of 97.4, right around the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com/">Knicks</a>' level of performance. In other words, they were really bad.</p>
<p>On Monday, the offense broke through in a big way, actually scoring at a higher rate than their season average. 107.3 points per 100 possessions is nothing to sneeze at. Perhaps more miraculous is that the statistical profile of the game didn't look all that different. The Blazers took a couple more shots but nothing drastic (87 in game four compared to 84 in games one through three). They shot a little bit better but not all that much (eFG% of 46% compared to 44.4%). They took care of the ball a little better but only cut out three giveaways (9 compared to 12). How in the world did all of that make such a huge difference?</p>
<p>In truth, doing a lot of things a little bit better can pay big dividends. That's part of what makes basketball so interesting. Little changes have such a large impact that teams can play drastically different basketball from night to night. But even if we accept that narrative as true it isn't very satisfying. If the Blazers are going to repeat those same results then we need to identify what little things improved and how they improved them.</p>
<p>Looking at the statistics one level deeper, two things stand out. First, the Blazers took more shots early in the shot clock. Through the first three games, a little under 25% of their shots came during the first eight seconds of a possession. Even more frustrating, they only shot an effective field goal percentage of 37%. In game four, those numbers improved to 32% and 55% respectively, much more in line with the team's season averages.</p>
<p>Second, they did a much better job finishing in the paint. Inside of five feet, the Blazers increased their field goal percentage from 52% to about 60% as a team. Leading the finishing charge were <span>C.J. McCollum</span> and Damian Lillard. Their combined shooting percentage near the rim improved from 51% to 69% and they were probably the two biggest reasons Portland snatched a "W".</p>
<p>No doubt, these two things are related and both were buoyed by the presence of <span>Meyers Leonard</span>. Pace and space has taken off to the point it's almost gospel these days. It's amazing to see how something goes from innovative to common knowledge. A few years ago, it was considered good analysis to discuss how a shooter influenced the space of the court. Only a few writers did it in a meaningful way. Now, every person at the bar follows comments about a big man's outside shooting percentages with "And don't forget, he opens up the floor for the rest of his teammates as well".</p>
<p>This is a laudable step forward in our understanding of the game but we need to continue to push the envelope. A lot has been made of Meyers' shooting pulling <span>Marc Gasol</span> away from the hoop. What has been missing is how that impact varies significantly depending on the situation. Even with Meyers Leonard on the floor, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzlies</a> did just fine once their defense got set. In game four, the Blazers had an effective field goal percentage of 41.7% after the shot clock reached 15. Where Meyers' influence was really felt was in the first few moments of an offensive possession.</p>
<p>At the NBA level, if you give players enough space they can get to the rim. Guys are just too good to be defended one-on-one in space. The only way defenses function is to have the first defender take away straight line drives and then rely on help defenders to do the rest. In transition, the help hasn't arrived yet. To compensate, big men will often run back and plant themselves in the middle of the key providing backup for their perimeter defenders. By doing this, they're able to hold down the fort for a few seconds as the rest of the defense gets set.</p>
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<p>CJ McCollum is gearing up for a drive against <span>Courtney Lee</span> on the right side of the floor. Marc Gasol is guarding <span>LaMarcus Aldridge</span> but his focus is entirely on deterring the drive. He'll worry about Aldridge later. Gasol plants himself in the very heart of the paint and his presence is enough to make CJ reconsider his attack.</p>
<p>Move Gasol outside the paint and it's a completely different story.</p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_2Q1dJbWHcWqVS34Qs2FiryJFyk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3653370/wu4hmc.0.jpg">
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<p>These two pictures are very similar except for the position of Marc Gasol. Leonard has spotted up in the corner and Marc Gasol can't ignore him for one second. If he does, it's an easy kick out for a triple. Everyone else is concerned about the perimeter as well so the lane is wide open. CJ McCollum blows by Lee for an easy layup. Gasol taking a few steps out was the difference between a quick two and being forced to run the offense.</p>
<p>This effect is pronounced because the rest of the defense isn't in position yet. Once the Grizzlies get set, they defend well enough as a team to protect the paint even if Gasol is pulled away from the rim. There are enough bodies to clog the lane in other ways. Sure, Meyers' shooting has some marginal effect but it hasn't been enough to beat Memphis' half court defense consistently. However, by combining Leonard's presence and attacking quickly, they're able to create some meaningful space. It's the combination that's the key. One without the other hasn't worked so far in the series.</p>
<p>In order to create these transition opportunities, the Blazers need to control the defensive glass. They did a great job in game four only giving up 7 offensive rebounds. They also got more stops allowing them to attack off the rebound instead of taking the ball out from under the hoop. Since the offense needs to get out early to be effective, the defense finishing plays will be especially important over the rest of the series.</p>
<p>The other factor that combined with Leonard's shooting was the absence of Mike Conley. Conley did a great job of funneling the ball into certain places. He worked expertly in concert with Gasol trapping the ball far away from the rim. <span>Nick Calathes</span> and <span>Beno Udrih</span> were much less consistent in game four and it meant Gasol was out of position occasionally.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8-WBI8LX15Y" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p>Notice how Gasol shimmies over to the left sideline and prepares to defend the Meyers' screen. As Lillard starts his attack, Gasol is still moving left. He was expecting Udrih to do his job and keep Lillard out of the middle. If Udrih had succeeded, here's how this play likely unfolds: Gasol cuts off Lillard's drive along the sideline allowing Udrih to recover. Lillard swings the ball to an open Leonard at the three point line. However, since Gasol stopped the ball so high (notice his feet are almost touching the three point line), he's close enough to Meyers to recover and prevent the three. Meyers has to swing the ball and the defense resets. If Udrih keeps Lillard on the sideline, Memphis has a good chance to deny penetration and neutralize Leonard's shooting threat at the same time.</p>
<p>However, once Lillard explodes towards the middle, Gasol is essentially out of the play. Gasol has to choose between chasing the ball or staying close enough to Leonard to prevent the three. He can no longer do both. This is an important relationship to understand because it helps explain why Meyers wasn't having the same transformative effect in the first few games. If Memphis' guards can't control the ball, Meyers' shooting becomes a much bigger problem.</p>
<p>Dame misses this layup but he really shouldn't have. This happened a lot in games one through three but rarely in game four. Meyers deserves a boatload of credit for his effect on the game but CJ and Damian were also just better. They will need to continue to play well for Portland to have a chance.</p>
<p>For the first time in this series, the Blazers have really punched back. Playing Meyers and CJ extended minutes and pushing the ball more consistently are things the Grizzlies will have to adjust to. The first and most obvious possibility is that Memphis doesn't overreact but just emphasizes certain principles. It's not like the Blazers walked away with the last game. Perhaps a better focus on transition defense and funneling the ball would do the trick.</p>
<p>If they do decide to do something more drastic, playing Gasol on Aldridge could be one option. He's done a phenomenal job checking LaMarcus in the post and Aldridge has struggled from three. I can't believe I'm saying this, but Gasol might have more freedom to help in transition if he's checking Aldridge rather than Leonard. Giving up early long two's is probably something Memphis could live with. Just go back and look at where Gasol positioned himself in the first picture when he was checking LaMarcus. If this happens, Aldridge will need to start hitting his jumper, and fast.</p>
<p>They could also go small more, knowing that Leonard can't hurt Green on the block. The Grizzlies have rarely done this for extended stretches as it gets them away from their identify. However, the bench units with Green and Koufos at the four and the five have absolutely torched Portland during the series. They could just try and outscore the Blazers in a shoot out. However, you got to figure that Memphis has had so much success playing their game that they wouldn't want to start playing Portland's.</p>
<p>I expect Memphis to keep the same game plan heading into game five but with more emphasis on controlling the ball and getting multiple defenders back on defense. It will be interesting to see if they are able to execute more effectively and if the new focus leads to mistakes elsewhere. The Grizzlies can handle Meyers Leonard if he's the only wrinkle. But combine his shooting with transition opportunities and drives down the middle and things could get interesting.</p>
<p>Finally, Memphis has something to worry about.</p>
https://www.blazersedge.com/2015/4/29/8512865/portland-trail-blazers-memphis-grizzlies-meyers-leonard-transition-2015-nba-playoffsWilly Raedy