The Portland Trail Blazers have made quite a habit of keeping games thrilling this season. While this may be exciting for those watching from home, it can be a source of frustration for dedicated fans who might wish for a more comfortable win.
On Tuesday night, the Blazers found themselves in a precarious position against the Orlando Magic, looking all but defeated until they mounted an exhilarating comeback in the second half, ultimately falling short. Just days earlier, in a pair of contests against the Sacramento Kings, the Blazers showcased their ability to get ahead but nearly squandered their leads in dramatic fashion. They did manage to hold on in those games, but a worrying trend is developing; whether they are clawing back from a deficit or hanging onto a lead, the team struggles to close out games effectively.
This pattern often reflects the challenges faced by a young, talented team—capable of reaching crucial moments yet lacking the experience to finish strong. Deni Avdija has emerged as a dependable option in critical situations, but with key players like Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant sidelined, it is clear who the Blazers lean on as the game clock winds down. Opponents are intensively focusing on shutting down Avdija, which raises the question: will another player emerge to help carry that load?
Without a timeline for Holiday’s return, the team will need someone else to step into the clutch role to avoid further late-game collapses. Caleb Love has shown promise and the confidence needed to be that player, but consistency in making late shots is essential for success. Similarly, Shaedon Sharpe could be pivotal, especially since he’s demonstrated effectiveness in fourth-quarter play, although his shot attempts in those crunch moments have been surprisingly low.
One silver lining in this scenario is the apparent commitment the Blazers have shown to make comebacks, highlighting a level of resilience that can be crucial for future growth. While coach Thiago Splitter’s decisions may not always resonate with fans, the high effort level from the players signals a positive direction for the team despite key injuries.
Ultimately, while the effort is commendable, the focus remains on converting those hard-fought games into victories, as wins are the true measure of success in the competitive landscape of the NBA.