Portland Trail Blazers:
Other than the Bucks the Blazers were the only team who ranked top five in the big three categories. Although Portland registered statement wins versus elite squads they did have a home court advantage.
Dame Lillard continues to impress and although he doesn’t get the kudos he deserves Al-Farouq Aminu is a true x-factor.
At issue is how reliant the Blazers are on shooting (similar situation to the Bucks), but for the moment the game plan is working and with DeRozan moving to San Antonio the Blazers backcourt has a solid hold on number two in the NBA behind only Curry and Thompson.
Factors:
Offensive Rating: 5th
Defensive Rating: 5th
Net Differential: 4th
Offensive field goal efficiency: 46.4 percent
Opponent field goal efficiency: 42.5 percent (*one of the top ratings)
Win/Loss: Three consecutive victories at home over the Bucks, Clippers and Celtics. (Four if you count the Wolves from the week prior).
Record: 10-3
Injuries:Maurice Harkless knee has missed most of season. Mo adds scoring and floor spacing.