Opinion
3 min read

Trail Blazers Set to Spark Victory at Moda Center Against Nuggets

As the Portland Trail Blazers gear up for their next encounter, the team's recent performances have been a mixed bag, but there are positive signs that could point towards an upset against the Denver Nuggets. The upcoming game scheduled for March 23rd at the Moda Center is expected to be a thrilling contest.


PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 23: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets reacts during the third quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on February 23, 2024 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.? (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)

In their last meeting with the Boston Celtics on March 12th, POR faced a tough defeat with a final score of 99-121. Despite this loss, there were noteworthy efforts from the bench contributing 31 points and maintaining a perfect free throw percentage. However, turnovers proved costly as they gave away possession 11 times and only managed to convert these into four points off turnovers.


On March 10th against the Toronto Raptors in an overtime thriller, POR showed resilience and offensive firepower by securing a win with an impressive scoreline of 128-118. The team demonstrated better ball control with fewer turnovers (15) and capitalized on these by scoring 22 points off turnovers. Their ability to dominate in overtime was commendable as they outscored their opponents by ten points in those crucial minutes.


PORTLAND, OR - FEBRUARY 23: Referee Zach Zarba #15 looks on during the game between the Denver Nuggets and the Portland Trail Blazers on February 23, 2024 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images)

Against Houston Rockets on March 9th, POR displayed some defensive shortcomings allowing Rockets to score heavily in paint and fast breaks totaling up to 91 points from these areas alone. Although they lost this game with a score of 107-123, it's worth noting that POR led for almost half of the game time (26:56), indicating potential when it comes to controlling game tempo.


Looking ahead at their matchup against DEN, it’s clear that POR will need to tighten up defensively especially around paint where Nuggets' strong offense can be particularly damaging. On offense, maintaining high free throw percentages while minimizing turnovers will be key factors if Trail Blazers wish to ignite Moda Center with another victory.


PORTLAND, OR - FEBRUARY 23: Anfernee Simons #1 of the Portland Trail Blazers dribbles the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets on February 23, 2024 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Denver Nuggets are not an opponent that can be taken lightly; they come into this game well-prepared and looking for success on enemy territory. However, if recent games have shown us anything about Portland Trail Blazers is that despite adversities faced throughout this season - there's still spark left in them waiting to catch fire.


Fans eager for action can catch this anticipated clash live on ROOT Sports NW or ROOT Sports NW+ as well as ALT network at exactly seven o'clock post meridian local time (Pacific Daylight Time).

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