Playoff Victory

That might be as close as the Blazers will get to a playoff-like victory this year in the West. What intensity! Boys started to fold at the end but held it together enough to spoil the Lakers' chances for best record in the league. In some ways, this was the most rewarding win of the year, particularly after recent struggles. I liked T-Law's fourth-quarter defense on Kobe, including a couple of steals and contested shots. Clinching moment was Roy taking Kobe off the drive in final minute, much like at end of first half. A couple more games like this and the Blazers are officially not only spoilers but winners on the year. That's a lot to ask for, but you never know.

I can now go home and enjoy my tater tots. Given this game though, I should have ordered Fryes. See you against Memphis.

Flurry: Thug

What a crazy last three minutes. Lakers clearly don't want to lose this game. But Blazers match energy and extend back up to 16 at end of quarter. Lamar Odom body blocks Roy to floor on drive, receives flagrant foul, almost starts fight. This could get dangerous.

Extend

Lakers start quarter strong but Blazers respond. Frye might just have earned his stripes for next year...hitting outside, inside, and throw in a steal. 77-62 Blazers with 3:20 left in third.

Roy Schools Kobe to End Half

Confident Blazers extend lead to 11 at half-time. Roy ends quarter with his patented double-crossover, stutter-step move that gets him by Hall of Famer Bryant and to the basket for a tear-drop bucket.

Let's see how the team psyche holds up against a team atop the western conference and league.

Coach followed my advice and put T-Law on Kobe; he held his own.

Rose Garden is bustin loose...this team needs a win, bad.

This is a Team Game

With everyone contributing, Blazers take 28-24 lead at end of first quarter. It's just a little reminder that Portland wins as a unit, not standing around and waiting for Roy or Aldridge to carry the day. At least that's how it was earlier in the year. Raef is in, has he made a three all season? Go for it Raef.

Late-Season Heroics?

The once-again mighty (and dreaded) Lakers are in town, and how sweet would it be take down Kobe and his hired guns? About as sweet as Kansas corn last night. I'll be watching out for who is our new Kobe-stopper. Could it be T-Law? Just guessing, but I think we'll see a bit of that. The banged-up Blazers better come out to play tonight or it could be too much yellow and blue to swallow for four quarters. Pass me the tater tots.