For the first time since the Portland Trail Blazers made the NBA Playoffs in 2021, back when Terry Stotts still roamed the Moda Center sidelines and Neil Olshey sat in the big chair, the franchise played a game with stakes on Wednesday night.

The Blazers faced the San Antonio Spurs with a chance to punch their ticket to the NBA Cup quarterfinals with a win. Forces seemed to be trending their direction. The Blazers were hamstrung by injuries — still without Jrue Holiday and others — but they got to play the Spurs without the supernatural Victor Wembanyama and starting guard Stephon Castle. They got the matchup at home, riding the momentum of a 2-1 road trip. And Portland star Deni Avdija erupted for 37 points on 63.2% shooting and eight assists.

Instead of seizing this golden opportunity,

See Full Page