It’s time for San Antonio Spurs at Portland Trail Blazers

Welcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here, but for all you newbies we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, don’t troll and don’t swear too much. Remember, it’s only a game, and unless you made a very unwise bet, the outcome shouldn’t affect your life either way. It’s OK to get mad, but don’t take it out on your fellow Spurs fans.

The win against the Kings wasn’t a masterpiece, as both teams had stretches of terrible play, but the Spurs had the last run and put the game away with Lonnie Walker IV taking over when the Kings decided to double team DeMar DeRozan at the end of the game. This was a refreshing change from the usual late-game pattern, which was to give the keys to DeMar and let him drive it into the garage, or over the cliff as the case may be. It was a change that was dictated by Sacramento’s double teams, and DeMar and Lonnie played it perfection.

Tonight, the Spurs face the Blazers, who are currently in 6th in the west, just out of the play-in tournament. They beat the Lakers last night to put LeBron and AD into the play-in, and Portland is motivated to keep winning stay out of the play-in to avoid the possibility of being knocked out of the playoffs in one or two games. The Spurs and Blazers have split their two games this year, but with Derrick White out, and the dynamic Portland backcourt of Damian LIllard and CJ McCollum, the Spurs are the underdog tonight. Jakob must dominate Jusef for the good guys to win, and if he can avoid foul trouble, it seems possible. The Spurs can hope that Lillard doesn’t go off tonight, and there’s a good chance that the Spurs can get another win and slam the door on the Kings and Pelicans. (Please keep your hands and fingers clear of the closing doors. Mind the gap.)

Dejounte must contain Lillard, as the Spurs forge onward. But don’t forget McCollum, he’s just as troublesome. To reduce the magic number, you must never slumber.

[Personal note: I’m glad the season is almost over, it’s been a real grind writing these. I mean, I like it, but I’m ready to take a break soon.]

One final word:

Go Spurs GOOOOOO!!

San Antonio Spurs at Portland Trail Blazers
May 8, 2021 | 9:00 PM CT
Streaming: NBA League Pass
TV: BSSW
RADIO: WOAI

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