Opinion
3 min read

Blazers and Spurs Set for Showdown at Moda Center

As the Portland Trail Blazers prepare to host the San Antonio Spurs at the Moda Center, fans are looking forward to what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Blazers, despite their struggles this season, have shown flashes of brilliance that suggest they could turn things around. Their recent performance against the Sacramento Kings on December 27th is a testament to their potential. In that game, Portland put up an impressive 130 points with a field goal percentage of 50 percent and a three-point shooting rate of 40 percent.


PORTLAND, OR - MARCH 24:  Keon Johnson #6 of the Portland Trail Blazers handles the ball during the game  on March 24, 2023 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images)

The bench contributed significantly with 65 points, indicating depth that could be pivotal in upcoming games. Moreover, their offensive rating soared to nearly 129 points per hundred possessions while maintaining a defensive rating just below 112. This balance between offense and defense was crucial in securing a victory over the Kings.


On the other hand, when facing off against San Antonio earlier on December 29th, Portland fell short by scoring only 105 points with a much lower field goal percentage of just 35 percent and three-point accuracy standing at only about one-third successful attempts. The rebounding battle was won by POR with an impressive total of 70 rebounds; however, it wasn't enough to overcome SAS's offensive onslaught led by their efficient shooting from both inside (63 percent from two-point range) and outside (93 percent from free-throw line).


The Spurs come into this game after having dominated Portland previously but carry an overall disappointing record for the season with only five wins compared to twenty-five losses as of their last encounter. Despite this record, they cannot be underestimated as they managed to score high against POR previously thanks mainly due to excellent ball distribution resulting in thirty-three assists which facilitated high-percentage shots.


For POR fans hoping for redemption in this rematch at home ground on December 29th at Moda Center – there is reason for optimism if they can replicate or improve upon their performance against Sacramento rather than falling back into patterns seen during their previous loss against SAS.


With tip-off scheduled for 7:00 PM local time (Pacific), fans can catch all the action live on ROOT Sports NW+ or BSSW depending on location allegiance. It's set up nicely for those who wish not just witness but also analyze how these teams adapt strategies from past encounters while trying secure much-needed wins before year ends!

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