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Portland Trail Blazers Look to Bounce Back Against LA Clippers Led by Anfernee Simons

The Portland Trail Blazers are gearing up for a highly anticipated matchup against the LA Clippers at the Moda Center. After a tough loss in their previous game, the Trail Blazers are determined to bounce back and secure a victory on their home court. Leading the charge for Portland is shooting guard Anfernee Simons, who has been in exceptional form recently.


LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 11:  Shaedon Sharpe #17 of the Portland Trail Blazers at Crypto.com Arena on December 11, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.  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 Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Simons has been a standout performer for the Trail Blazers in their last three games. In their most recent game against the Chicago Bulls, Simons showcased his scoring prowess by dropping an impressive 30 points. He also contributed 9 assists and displayed his versatility on both ends of the court. With a field goals percentage of 42% and a three-point percentage of 29%, Simons has proven to be a reliable offensive weapon for Portland.


However, Simons is not the only player to watch out for in this upcoming clash. Deandre Ayton has been a force to be reckoned with in the paint, averaging an impressive 25 points and 15 rebounds per game over the last three games. His dominant presence under the basket has made him a key player for the Trail Blazers.


LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 11: Terance Mann #14 of the LA Clippers drives to the basket during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 11, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

On the other side of the court, the LA Clippers will be led by their star player Paul George. George has been on fire recently, averaging 26 points per game while shooting at an efficient field goals percentage of 45%. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates makes him a formidable opponent for any defense.


In addition to George, James Harden has also been instrumental in leading the Clippers' offense. Harden's playmaking skills have resulted in an average of 9 assists per game over the last three games. His ability to distribute the ball effectively and find open teammates will pose a challenge for Portland's defense.


LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 11:  Shaedon Sharpe #17 of the Portland Trail Blazers at Crypto.com Arena on December 11, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.  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 Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

When it comes to rebounding, Kris Murray has been a standout performer for the Trail Blazers. With an average of 10 rebounds per game, Murray has been relentless on the boards, providing his team with second-chance opportunities and extra possessions.


Looking at the overall performance of both teams over the last three games, the Trail Blazers have shown great resilience despite their recent loss. Their average offensive rating stands at 121, while their defensive rating is at 110. On the other hand, the Clippers have displayed impressive offensive efficiency with an average offensive rating of 118 and a defensive rating of 114.


With both teams boasting talented players and strong performances in recent games, this matchup promises to be an exciting battle. The Trail Blazers will look to utilize their home-court advantage and rely on the exceptional performances of Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton to secure a victory. However, they must be prepared to face a formidable LA Clippers team led by Paul George and James Harden.


Fans can catch all the action on TV networks such as ROOT Sports NW and BSSC. The game is scheduled for March 20th at 7:00 PM local time at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon.

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