With the NBA season winding down and postseason plans off the table, the Portland Trail Blazers are limping into their final showdown like it’s the NBA Hunger Games — and it’s not looking pretty.
No playoff push. No full roster. Just vibes, bruises, and a whole lot of next-man-up energy. As the Los Angeles Lakers roll into Moda Center for the regular-season finale, Portland is looking more like a makeshift squad than a playoff spoiler. Not exactly an ideal spot going in against the steamrolling Lakers.
Portland Trail Blazers: The Walking Wounded of Rip City
Portland’s injury report right now is complete chaos. A total of eight players are listed, and it reads more like an ER waiting room than a basketball team. Here’s the full breakdown ahead of the clash with Los Angeles.
- Deandre Ayton – Out (Calf)
- Robert Williams III – Out (Knee)
- Bryce McGowens – Out for season (Rib)
- Shaedon Sharpe – Day-to-day (Knee)
- Scoot Henderson – Out (Concussion)
- Deni Avdija – Doubtful (Thumb)
- Jerami Grant – Out (Knee)
- Anfernee Simons – Out (Forearm)
That’s literally your core rotation. It’s a full-blown unit off the rails, and with Los Angeles sitting at 50–31, the Trail Blazers’ options are thinner than their 3-point percentage.
While most of Portland’s core is out, a few names have helped keep the ship from fully sinking.
For the season, Deni Avdija has averaged 16.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.7 3-pointers made per game. Meanwhile, Shaedon Sharpe was averaging 20.5 points over his last 20 games before his knee got in the way.
Donovan Clingan and Toumani Camara have also impressed as the season winds down. The latter’s active defense and hustle have fans asking if he’s a long-term piece, while Clingan is blocking just about everything in the paint.
And don’t forget Anfernee Simons, who still leads the team in scoring at 19.3 points per game and ranks 17th in the NBA in made 3s. But again, big question mark on when he’ll play. To make a difference, you’ve gotta be able to suit up, right?
Portland’s averaging 110.9 points per game and giving up 114.3. Not ideal math when facing playoff-bound teams. With one game left and so much talent wrapped in bubble wrap, the Trail Blazers might be playing more for pride than position.
Whatever happens, the season finale will be a test of grit and maybe a glimpse into Rip City’s future. Let’s hope the bench mob brings the fire because most of the starters are watching from the sideline.