Lamrock's Blazers - Retired

[hova-]

Sick season so far for you. Lillard is playing out of his mind, best scoring PG in the league I guess. 43 against NOH aren't too shabby either. Usual 2k problem with the rankings. Heat at 8-7 wtf and all the others like just around .500, I hate that.

Nice recap, looks like your team should be a playoff calibre if everybody stays healthy.

[Valor]

Great month to kick things off for you, your team is absolutely hammering the league right now

[Lamrock]

NLSC 2K14

Spots are still open for the 2014 draft class! Currently, only three NLSC players are signed up so far. Send me a PM using the template on this post and your guy will be in the virtual NBA. There will also be contests in the future for further scoring opportunities. Along with your player's performances in the league, your points in the leaderboard will count towards a better destiny, with your Potential rating always changing to reflect development and trade value.

NLSC Class of 2013

Fresh Smith
Martti Must
X Watson
Chris Hova
J.R. Young
Leo Lai
Julian Martin
Axel Gomez
Da'Vonte Hughes
Ryan Alexander

NLSC Class of 2014

Chris Frazier
Hans Antonio
Dyrone Williams
*to be announced*
*to be announced*
*to be announced*
*to be announced*
*to be announced*

NLSC Leaderboard

Durant35: 64
Martti: 52
Khanwarrior: 48
dare: 47
Sit: 27
Pitar: 22
hova-: 20
Valor: 15
badreligionau: 14
Justine: 10
Red Rocket: 10
Thierry: 10
Dmastawwe: 8
Mark.: 8

[Mark.]

Great start to the season! Lillard is playing superbly. As Vespasian92 mentioned, trading Batum freed up shots and probably made the team a bit more cohesive on the offensive end, you will miss his defence of course, but I am sure that can be covered by a team effort.

[Lamrock]

Damian Lillard scored a career and franchise record 59 points.

NSTANT CLASSIC: Blazers Defeat Heat
12/5/2013 - Heat 123 @ Trail Blazers 124 [OT]

Damian Lillard dropped a career and season high 59 points, scored 10 points in the final minute of overtime, and sank the game-winning buzzer-beater jumper to give the Blazers their biggest victory in years.

Facing the two-time defending champion Heat, who had been struggling early on despite the addition of J.R. Smith and surprising rookie big man Trevor Mbakwe, Portland came to play for this game. Coming off a pair of shocking losses, Damian LIllard came out attacking, scoring 18 first quarter points. The Heat locked down on D in the second to keep the game close.

The third and fourth quarters were shootouts as Lillard and LeBron in particular scored at will. Damian Lillard recorded a career high 47 points in regulation, but thanks to a drive by James, the game wasn't over. The Heat looked primed to win in OT, leading by 6 with under 40 seconds to go. Damian Lillard hit a pull-up three, then Mbakwe split a pair of free throws. Lillard sank another trey, then got a huge steal to make a layup and put the team up one.

With 7 seconds left, the Heat took a timeout, and LeBron wasted no time posterizing J.J. Hickson for the lead. With no timeouts and 5 seconds left, Lillard sprinted up the court and threw up a midrange jumper as time expired. Good.

MIA 22 22 32 33 14 | 123 [9-9] - James: 31/10/7; T. Mbakwe: 19/11/4, 7-11 FG'; Wade: 13/6/7
POR 27 18 35 29 15 | 124 [14-6] - Lillard: 59/10/8, 21-48 FG, 7-18 3pt; Aldridge: 23/12/2; Hickson: 8/8/2

----------

Batum Beats Blazers At Buzzer
12/1/2013 - Trail Blazers 113 @ Hornets 114

In a thrilling come-from-behind victory, the New Orleans Hornets defeated the Portland Trail Blazers by just a point. Former Blazer Nic Batum led the way with 24 points and a game-winning jumper as time expired. The Hornets are now at .500, while the Blazers now sit at 13-5.

POR 34 28 31 20 | 113 [13-5] - Lillard: 29/4/9; Aldridge: 18/6/0; Poythress: 15/6/3
NO 24 30 26 34 | 114 [8-8] - Batum: 24/6/5; A. Davis: 15/11/0; Vasquez: 13/5/7

Kings Rout Blazers Behind Balanced Attack
12/3/2013 - Kings 113 @ Trail Blazers 94

Last season, the Kings had the Blazers' number despite a seemingly inferior roster. This year, both teams look primed for playoff runs but Sacramento remains a tough match-up for Portland. With Tyreke Evans out and DeMarcus Cousins in foul trouble, Aaron Brooks and rookie Glenn Robinson III stepped up in a big way for a big win at the Rose Garden.

SAC 29 32 21 31 | 113 [11-6] - G. Robinson III: 18/7/4; A. Brooks: 20/3/2, 6-8 3pt; Patterson: 20/5/0
POR 23 30 22 19 | 95 [13-6] - Lillard: 19/4/13; Aldridge: 22/9/1; Hickson: 14/11/1

Blazers Eke Out Second Consecutive One Point Win
12/7/2013 - Raptors 97 @ Trail Blazers 98

Damian Lillard had a 27 point, 10 assists outing, but the Blazers just barely escaped with the win against the dismal Raptors. Big games from DeMar DeRozan and Jonas Valanciunas kept the Raptors in the game but a late comeback attempt fell just short as the Blazers improve to 15-6.

TOR 21 27 22 27 | 97 [8-12] - DeRozan: 23/4/1; Valanciunas: 16/4/4, 7-8 FG; Gay: 17/10/1
POR 21 30 23 24 | 98 [15-6] - Lillard: 27/6/10; Aldridge: 19/10/2; Sessions: 15/2/9

----------

Northwest Division Standings

Portland 15-6
Denver 13-7
Utah 12-7
Oklahoma City 9-9
Minnesota 8-12

NBA Headlines



Suns Acquire Jarrett Jack, Warriors Receive Jared Dudley, 2014 2nd round pick
Questionable trade for Warriors as they deal their sixth man for a guy who'll take minutes from Harrison Barnes. Phoenix meanwhile opens up minutes for Shabazz Muhammad.
Suns grade: B | Warriors grade: C-
Jerryd Bayless Breaks Jaw, Out 4-6 Weeks
Tough break for the already struggling Grizzlies
Bobcats Sign Ben Gordon to 4 year, $15M extension
Confusing decision as Ben Gordon is apparently disgruntled with the young team's lack of direction
Damian Lillard wins West Player of the Week
LIllard wins player of the week after a 59 point outburst in an overtime win against the Heat.
RUMOR: Blazers turn down Andre Miller, 2014 1st for Alex Poythress
Portland wasn't willing to give up their starting SF for their former point guard and what would likely be a late first rounder.

[Mark.]

Good call turning down the trade offer.

What a huge game from Lillard, although 48 shots? That's SWAC!

[Durant35]

Damn, that should be a triple-double. 59-10-8 smh.

[Valor]

What a huge game from Lillard, although 48 shots? That's SWAC!

Reminds me of how Chris Webber got his 51 points

[hova-]

Wow sick game, 21-48 is not really good but at least a clutch game by Lill'. Some really close games as you seem to drop at least a game here and there. Still, nice young squad rocking the league. A nickname for your squad is definitely needed.

[Axel The Great]

Damian Lillard keeps showing that he'll be a force to be reckoned with for many years to come. With such a young squad it's almost natural to drop some close games, but I'm glad to see you didn't lose against the Heat.

[Lamrock]

Vince Carter to Portland in Three Player Trade
Vince Carter to Blazers; Jason Smith & Victor Claver to Mavericks

The Blazers have traded second year forward Victor Claver and back-up center Jason Smith to the Dallas Mavericks for veteran swingman Vince Carter. Rookie Alex Poythress has shown signs of promise as the starting small forward but despite the team's 20-9 start, the team shores up a major short-term need. The assets given up were expendable, as Meyers Leonard and Kelly Olynyk are already coming off the bench, and Claver averaged just 9 minutes per game. Carter, 36, has averaged 14.6 points per game this season for Dallas, shooting three pointers at a 39% clip.

Dallas is in the basement of the league with a 7-18 record and are likely looking to start the rebuilding process. While Carter has been one of their key players this season, Jason Smith is a solid center who will give them depth up front, while Claver is a promising combo forward prospect. Carter is expect to make his debut for the Blazers on December 26th, versus the Lakers. Terry Stotts said he will start.

Portland Grade: A-
Dallas Grade: B

Nothing Goes Right For Blazers Against LAC
12/9/2013 - Trail Blazers 72 @ Clippers 98

In a game that was a blowout from start to finish, the Clippers routed the Blazers 98-72. The Blazer offense was tepid from the start as Damian Lillard's shots were not falling. Blake Griffin and Jamal Crawford were scoring at will, and Portland found themselves in a double digit halftime hole.

The Clippers always had answers for the Blazers' runs, and Portland couldn't get the game within single digits in the second half. Los Angeles cruises to a 98-72 victory, a huge win given their slow start to the season. Portland now sits at 15-7.

POR 16 18 16 22 | 72 [15-7] - Hickson: 16/5/1, 6-8 FG; Matthews: 11/4/3; Lillard: 13/5/9, 5-24 FG
LAC 26 25 30 17 | 98 [9-12] - Griffin: 23/7/3; Jamal Crawford: 20/2/5; Paul: 8/5/11

Matthews, Blazers Annihilate Randolph-less Grizzlies
12/12/2013 - Grizzlies 71 @ Trail Blazers 105

With Zach Randolph out, some suspected the Grizzlies offense might not quite be up to snuff. The combined 27 points in the 2nd and 3rd quarters proved that hypothesis correct as Portland bounced back from a tough loss in LA to beat the Grizzlies by 34 points. Wesley Matthews led the way with 25 points and 7 steals.

MEM 20 12 15 24 | 71 [8-15] - Conley: 13/4/7; E. Davis: 12/7/0; M. Gasol: 6/7/2
POR 24 30 27 24 | 105 [16-7] - Matthews: 25/3/7 stls, 5-9 3pt; Aldridge: 15/16/4; Poythress: 14/5/4

Blazers Drop 132 On Hapless Suns
12/14/2013 - Trail Blazers 132 @ Suns 100

After the Suns shocked Portland earlier in the season by handing them their first defeat of the season, the Blazers got their revenge in a big way, dominating the Suns in Phoenix. Aldridge, Lillard and Matthews all had 20+ point outings and after the game, Terry Stotts joked, "I like playing Phoenix". The Blazers improve to 17-7, while the Suns already look headed for the lottery, with a 7-17 record.

POR 27 41 26 38 | 132 [17-7] - Lillard: 24/3/12; Aldridge: 26/6/3; Matthews: 21/4/5, 9-12 FG
PHX 19 22 31 28 | 100 [7-17] - Dragic: 24/4/2; Scola: 22/6/1; J. Jack: 10/2/6

Dirk Puts Up Vintage Performance As Mavs Surprise Blazers
12/15/2013 - Mavericks 103 @ Trail Blazers 98

Putting up 31 points and 11 boards, Dirk Nowitzki carried his Mavs to a big win on the road to knock Portland down a spot in the standings. Dallas, just 6-15, has had a disasterous season and look like they are soon to blow the team up. However, this one was just like old times. The Blazers fall to 17-8, and are leapfrogged by the surprising Sacramento Kings, who have been led by emerging star DeMarcus Cousins.

DAL 19 27 28 29 | 103 [6-15] - Nowitzki: 31/11/1; Mayo: 14/5/4; D. Collison: 13/4/8
POR 22 26 24 26 | 98 [17-8] - Lillard: 24/1/8; Aldridge: 17/12/3, 5-21 FG; Matthews: 18/2/1

Blazers Bounce Back With Another Big Road Win
12/18/2013 - Trail Blazers 105 @ Nets 80

Homecourt advantage and a fully healthy roster wasn't enough for the Nets to lose by less than 25 points. Aldridge and Hickson posted huge double doubles, making up for Damian Lillard's dismal 8 point performance. After a home loss to a bad team, the Blazers came out fired up and used a third quarter run to blow this team out.

POR 18 29 20 28 | 105 [18-8] - Hickson: 17/15/0; Aldridge: 22/10/1; Poythress: 17/4/5 stls
BKN 17 22 15 25 | 80 [14-10] - B. Lopez: 21/12/0; D. Williams: 12/3/9; X. Watson: 4/1/0, 9 minutes

Lillard Scores 40 As Blazers Beat Cavs
12/19/2013 - Trail Blazers 103 @ Cavaliers 94

Despite a couple key offseason additions, the Cleveland Cavaliers are having another subpar season. However, the match-up of star point guards Damian Lillard and Kyrie Irving was a main attraction, and it did not disappoint - well, at least Lillard didn't.

Cleveland made it a game in the first half with their tenacity on the boards, but their offense was stagnant. The third quarter saw Portland make their run, leading by as many as 17 points. Cleveland made a run to get back in the game, sinking their first 3 three-pointers in succession to eventually get them within 3. Lillard came back into the game to close it out, drilling one mid-range jumper after another en route to a 40 point performance and a 103-94 win. Kyrie Irving had just 14 points for his side.

POR 29 17 32 25 | 103 [19-8] - Lillard: 40/5/7, 18-29 FG; Aldridge: 21/9/3; Matthews: 16/5/2
CLE 23 21 19 31 | 94 [10-16] - Varejao: 21/11/0; Irving: 14/6/6; David West: 14/7/0

Aldridge, Lillard Too Much For Magic
12/22/2013 - Trail Blazers 96 @ Magic 87

Orlando is a team on many people's radar following their re-acquisition of Center Dwight Howard. However, he was no match for LaMarcus Aldridge this time. After a first half in which Orlando dominated in the paint but couldn't pull away, the Blazers took control in the second half to pull out a convincing win. It wasn't easy, as it was a three point margin with 2:15 left in the game. Portland shut out Orlando the rest of the way to win it, 96-87.

Portland improves to 20-8 to hold on to the league's best record while the Magic sit at a fair 14-10. #1 pick Martti Must continues to get little playing time, as he had 4 points in 10 minutes of action. LaMarcus Aldridge received the game-ball, dominating on both ends of the floor.

POR 24 23 25 24 | 96 [20-8] - Aldridge: 28/14/2, 11-19 FG; Lillard: 28/0/6; Maynor: 13/2/1
ORL 29 19 19 20 | 87 [14-10] - D. Howard: 14/11/2; G. Davis: 21/6/4 stls; Must: 4/3/1; Hughes: 3/2/2

Mbakwe Has Second Career Game As Heat Rout Blazers
12/23/2013 - Trail Blazers 79 @ Heat 96

In the second game of their Florida back-to-back, Portland suggered a blowout loss at the hands of the Heat, who they had defeated a couple weeks back at the buzzer. Thanks to a vintage game from LeBron and another huge performance from 59th overall pick Trevor Mbakwe, the Heat got their revenge. Portland now falls to 20-9, while Miami sits at 17-10 now.

POR 26 19 17 17 | 79 [20-9] - Lillard: 23/4/10; Matthews: 15/2/3; Hickson: 8/13/1
MIA 19 30 28 19 | 90 [17-10] - L. James: 28/8/8; Mbakwe: 20/9/1, 9-10 FG; Wade: 16/8/4

NBA Headlines



Knicks trade Chris Kaman to Bucks for 2015 first, Michael Dixon
Bucks go all in for the 8 seed by dealing a future first rounder for an average center
Nuggets trade Andre Miller to Celtics for Brandon Bass, 2015 2nd
After bolstering their frontcourt, Boston sends now-expendable Brandon Bass for veteran PG Andre Miller
Magic trade Mo Harkless to Nets for Reggie Evans, Tornike Shengalia
Perhaps to open up minutes for Martti Must, the Magic trade forward Mo Harkless to Brooklyn for an unknown and infamous rebounder Reggie Evans
Sekou Smith: Lillard an MVP candidate?
Lillard, LeBron, Jrue Holiday top MVP candidates sez NBA.com pundit
Knicks Drop Fifth Straight, Woodson on hot seat
New York continues to struggle despite an all-star caliber season for Raymond Felton
Celtics sign Chris Andersen to 1 year, minimum deal
Birdman Birdman
Mbah a Moute Out 8 Weeks With Broken Back
Mbah a Moot

[Axel The Great]

At first glance, I wasn't a fan of the trade, but seeing how you need help on the wings and the players you gave up are easily replaceable, it's not a bad trade overall. Hopefully VC will be able to score well for your team so you can continue having a strong season.

[Fresh8]

Looking forward to Vince Carter's debut. I hope he gives you a lift with some steady shooting from outside and helps solidify your team's position as a top playoff team!

[Lamrock]

DECEMBER 2013 IN REVIEW



Record: 22-10 [9-6]
1st in conference
1st in division
2nd in power rankings

It was a solid month for the Trail Blazers as they maintained their position on top of the standings with a 7-5 mark. After Alex Poythress hit the so-called "rookie wall", the team acquired Vince Carter. In three games, Carter has struggled with his shooting, but Terry Stotts is confident that he will help the team considerably. Damian Lillard has continued to be the center of attention, especially after his 59 point outburst in Miami. One thing is for sure: if Portland keeps this up, we'll be hearing serious "Lillard for MVP" talk.



NBA Standings

Western Conference

1 Portland 22-10
2 Golden State 19-11
3 Denver 20-12
4 New Orleans 19-12
5 San Antonio 18-12
6 Utah 17-12
7 Sacramento 18-13
8 Oklahoma City 15-12
Houston 15-16
LA Clippers 14-16
Memphis 14-19
LA Lakers 12-19
Minnesota 10-20
Phoenix 10-22
Dallas 8-20

Eastern Conference

1 Philadelphia 21-10
2 Miami 19-12
3 Indiana 17-12
4 Detroit 17-13
5 Orlando 16-13
6 Brooklyn 16-15
7 Boston 15-15
8 Washington 14-14
Chicago 15-17
Toronto 14-17
Atlanta 14-17
Cleveland 14-18
New York 13-17
Milwaukee 13-20
Charlotte 8-21

Player Averages



Damian Lillard: 26.3 PPG, 8.1 APG, 4.2 RPG, 3.6 TOPG, 24.7 PER, .604% TS (.487% | .381% | .921%)
LaMarcus Aldridge: 18.7 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 18.2 PER (.481% | .000% | .851%)
Wesley Matthews: 15 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, .623% TS (.478% | .476% | .909%)
Vince Carter: 13.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, acquired by Dallas (.401% | .381% | .809%)
J.J. Hickson: 8.4 PPG, 9.2 RPG (.526% | .000% | .639%)
Alex Poythress: 8.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG(.471% | .300% | .481%)
Ramon Sessions: 8.4 PPG, 4.5 APG, 3.4 RPG (.366% | .214% | .802%)
Eric Maynor: 4.4 PPG, 1.8 APG, .652% TS, 25 games (.526% | .517% | .789%)
Meyers Leonard: 3.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG, .652% (.614% | .000% | .882%)
Kelly Olynyk: 2.9 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 26 games (.478% | .333% | .912%)
Allen Crabbe: 1.9 PPG, 15 games (.345% | .412% | .500%)

Blazers Among League Leaders:

Damian Lillard: 26.3 PPG (3rd) - Leader: LeBron James (MIA): 29.8 PPG
Damian Lillard: 8.1 APG (8th) - Leader: Jose Calderon (DET): 9.7 APG
Damian Lillard: 3.6 TOPG - League Leader
Damian Lillard: .921% FT (8th) - Leader: Chauncey Billups (MEM): .960% FT
Damian Lillard: 24.7 PER (5th) - Leader: Kevin Durant (OKC): 31.5 PER+

Wesley Matthews: .623% TS (7th) - Leader: Ryan Anderson (NO): .643% TS
Wesley Matthews: .476% 3pt (7th) - Leader: Austin Rivers (NO): .643% 3pt

NBA.com Headlines



Heat G Dwyane Wade Breaks Foot, Out 6-8 Weeks
Chris Bosh Out 4-6 Weeks With Broken Rib
Big trouble for the big 3, who had finally started to return to championship form. Even more pressure on LeBron now.
Pacers sign Danny Granger to 5 year, $47M extension
A bit of a surprise, given the improvement of Paul George and Lance Stephenson
Celtics sign Paul Pierce to 1 year, $5M extension
After Ainge opted not to buy him out, Pierce appears to be a Celtic for life.
Wizards sign Emeka Okafor to 3 year, $14.8M extension
Wizards secure a solid defensive center long-term for cheap.
Warriors sign C Andrew Bogut to 5 year, $45M extension
Injury prone as he is, Bogut is the closest they'll get to a championship center
Wizards sign F Trevor Ariza to 4 year, $12.4M extension
Washington locks up another role player.
Wizards sign G John Wall to 5 year, $78.65M extension
Impressed with the extensions of Okafor and Ariza, but more impressed by the money, Wall signs a long-term extension.

Durant, Irving Win Players of the Month
Durant dominated with Westbrook missing time, while Irving has single-handedly kept Cleveland afloat.
Carter-Williams, Smart Win Rookies of the Month
Michael Carter-Williams has been a good fit at point guard for Utah, while Marcus Smart and Kemba Walker is a solid young backcourt.
LeBron, Durant Lead All-Star Voting
No surprise as the league's top two players lead early all-star balloting.
LeBron, Lillard, Holiday Lead MVP Candidates
LeBron's been the best player, but LIllard and Holiday have the best teams...
Simmons: Bulls, Knicks Biggest Disappointments So Far
Neither team would make playoffs if they started today after starting season with ECF ambitions
Rookie Rankings: Marcus Smart; Cody Zeller; J.R. Young; Nerlens Noel; Alex Poythress
Marcus Smart, Cody Zeller and J.R. Young lead the rookie rankings, as the only three rookies to have double digit scoring averages.

Game Recaps

Spoils Carter's Debut With 52 Points
12/26/2013 - Lakers 127 @ Trail Blazers 109

Vince Carter had a quiet, but solid debut with 9 points, while Matthews and Lillard combined for 57 as the team scored 109, earning the fans Chalupas. That didn't matter though. Kobe scored a season high 52 points on 15-24 shooting as the Lakers earned a rare win in Portland. LA is having another tough season, following the departure of Dwight Howard, and sits at 12-17, but Bryant vows that this team will make the post-season. Games like this make it look like they just might.

LAL 31 30 31 35 | 127 [12-17] - Bryant: 52/4/4; J. Hill: 21/13/0; Meeks: 14/2/0
POR 23 23 29 34 | 109 [20-10] - Lillard: 30/4/2; Matthews: 27/3/0; Aldridge: 18/7/4

Hickson, Aldridge Power Blazers To Win Over Kings
12/28/2013 - Kings 89 @ Trail Blazers 111

In the first of a home-and-home versus the KIngs, Portland easily won, 111-89. The frontcourt duo Hickson and Aldridge was unstoppable, while the KIngs offense was stagnant all night. Portland improves to 21-10 with the win, but will have to face Sacramento again in two days at Sleep Train Arena.

SAC 28 23 16 22 | 89 [18-12] - Cousins: 16/18/3; Patterson: 15/10/1; I. Thomas: 23/3/3
POR 26 31 29 25 | 111 [21-10] - Hickson: 22/10/1; Aldridge: 19/10/1; Matthews: 14/7/6

Kings Come Out Flat As Blazers Win Again
12/30/2013 - Trail Blazers 91 @ Kings 75

On the road in their second straight game against the Kings, the Blazers managed a wire-to-wire victory courtesy of 35 points from Lillard and what Terry Stotts called "our best defensive performance all year". Portland came out of the gate strong, with Lillard and Matthews combining to outscore the Kings in the first period. Sacramento came battling back from 14 to make it a 43-40 margin at the half.

Portland played stifling defense to open the second half on a 20-6 run to solidify the lead. While Aldridge had a poor game, league rebounding leader DeMarcus Cousins managed just 3 boards this game. Portland will enter the new year with a 22-10 record, while the Kings come off two straight losses to the same team and after a promising start, are no longer a given to be a playoff team.

POR 28 15 24 24 | 91 [22-10] - Lillard: 35/10/4; Matthews: 12/2/2; Poythress: 11/3/2, 5-7 FG
SAC 18 22 12 23 | 75 [18-13] - I. Thomas: 18/4/7; Cousins: 16/3/1; G. Robinson III: 10/7/0

[Fresh8]

Kobe destroyed you, which is what I like to see.

You are doing awesome and I hope Lillard can win MVP.

I am gutted about the Wolves.

[hova-]

I like how Hickson and Matthews are playing good roles on your squad, which has somehow turned into a sure-fire Playoff team. Kobe torched you though. Miami struggling is always good to see - haterz gon hate.

I like how you get on so fast and may I ask you about your shooting sliders and CPU shooting tendencies? I am looking for improvement right now.

[Martti.]

Lillard close to 50-40-90, amazing stuff! Maybe next year...

[mp3]

Solid performances from Wesley Matthews to help out the big two, good week after the Laker loss.

[Mark.]

I like the trade a lot to be honest. Carter should provide an offensive option at SF.

[Lamrock]

Blazers Sitting Pretty As Halfway Mark



With a 27-14 record, the Blazers are on pace for a 54 win season, which would match the total won in the 2008-09 season, their best and most exciting campaign this decade. In a Western Conference with some big names struggling in the early going (*cough* Thunder, Clippers and Grizzlies *cough*), they have managed, against all odds, to maintain the top spot in the Western Conference thus far.

Damian Lillard had been the key, continuing to make his case for his first all-star bid. The frontcourt of Hickson and Aldridge continues to be among the league's best, crashing the boards and providing a huge offensive boost. Despite spotty shooting, Carter has had a good start to his Blazers career, fitting right in at the 3 slot and proving to be a positive locker room presence. There are still another 41 games to be played, but the Blazers have got to like the position they're in.

Blazers Mount Second Half Comeback To Beat Shorthanded Thunder
1/2/2014 - Thunder 87 @ Trail Blazers 96

In the first meeting of the rivalry season series between the Thunder and Blazers, Portland came out on top. The Thunder, 15-13, have struggled this season thanks to Durant missing a dozen games with injury, and now Ibaka being out. Led by Damian Lillard and J.J. Hickson, the Blazers came back from a 16 point halftime deficit to defeat the Thunder. Portland dominated the offensive glass in the second half as the Thunder offense went cold. The Blazers maintain their league best 23-10 record. but would have to play OKC in the first round were the post-season to start tomorrow.

OKC 23 30 14 20 | 87 [15-13] - Durant: 32/7/3; Westbrook: 19/4/6; Oladipo: 7/8/5
POR 30 27 17 22 | 96 [23-10] - Lillard: 20/1/7; Hickson: 17/13/0; Aldridge: 19/6/2

Blazers Edge Out Suns For Fourth Straight Win
1/4/2014 - Trail Blazers 106 @ Suns 104

Despite being a terrible team, the Suns have proven to be a nuisance for the Blazers this season, and this game was no exception. After taking an early double digit lead, the Blazers let the Suns hang around and then nearly lost the game with a 17 point fourth quarter. Once again, it was the team's guard play that overcame their poor defense thanks to their lucky three-point shooting. Portland wins their fourth straight while the Suns fall back into last place in the West.

POR 36 25 28 17 | 106 [24-10] - Lillard: 18/2/8; Hickson: 14/11/2; Matthews: 20/4/4 stls
PHX 22 30 29 23 | 104 [12-23] - Dragic: 16/2/9; S. Brown: 17/3/6; Beasley: 20/6/0

Nuggets End Blazers' Win Streak With Big Win
1/5/2014 - Trail Blazers 97 @ Nuggets 106

Led by Danilo Gallinari's 19, the Nuggets defeated Portland to end their four game winning streak and get an important win against a division for. Wesley Matthews had 23 with Lillard chipped in 16, but Aldridge's cold streak continued with a 3-10 performance.

POR 38 16 18 25 | 97 [24-11] - Matthews: 23/6/2; Lillard: 16/0/7; Carter: 12/5/5
DEN 32 26 27 21 | 106 [23-12] - Gallinari: 19/7/5; McGee: 16/14/0; Faried: 18/10/4 blks

Rockets Stun Rose Garden With Three Point Clinic
1/7/2014 - Rockets 126 @ Trail Blazers 102

J.J. Redick had 23 points while Parsons put in 32 as the Harden-less Rockets shot the Blazers out of the building with a 24 point win. Houston shot 56% from the field and sank 16 threes as they continue to hang in their without their star.

HOU 31 31 26 38 | 126 [18-17] - Redick: 23/4/8, 5-8 3pt; Parsons: 22/4/4; R. Alexander: 17/3/0, 7-7 FG
POR 27 32 21 22 | 102 [24-12] - Lillard: 20/2/5; Hickson: 17/9/0; Matthews: 18/2/2

Blazers Ground Hawks With 36 Point Drubbing
1/9/2014 - Trail Blazers 123 @ Hawks 87

With rookie sensation JR Young out of the lineup with an ankle sprain, the Blazers routed the Hawks in Atlanta. It was a dominating offensive performance from start to finish as they dominated from beyond the arc and under the basket.

POR 32 25 30 36 | 123 [25-12] - LIllard: 25/4/8; Matthews: 22/6/5/4 stls; Hickson: 21/10/0
ATL 28 19 20 20 | 87 [15-20] - J. Smith: 18/4/3; L. Williams: 17/1/3; N. Robinson: 11/3/4

Bobcats Hold Off Portland In Huge Upset
1/11/2013 - Trail Blazers 96 @ Bobcats 99

In what was likely the best game the Bobcats have played all season, they defeat 99-96. Despite solid nights from Lillard and Aldridge, Portland shouldn't pull ahead, and a tepid offensive stretch in the fourth cost them an easy win.

POR 29 32 17 18 | 96 [25-13] - Aldridge: 24/7/2; Lillard: 23/1/8; Hickson: 11/13/0
CHA 38 25 13 23 | 99 [11-24] - Noel: 16/7/4 blks; K. Walker: 12/4/12; B. Gordon: 15/2/3

Blazers Use Huge Fourth Quarter To Rout Bucks
1/12/2014 - Trail Blazers 117 @ Bucks 88

The Trail Blazers bounced back from the disappointing loss in Charlotte in a big way, defeating Milwaukee by 29. The second quarter saw Portland outscore the Bucks 42-10 (!) as Aldridge and Matthews totaled 25 apiece.

POR 17 42 24 34 | 117 [26-13] - Matthews: 25/7/2, 7-9 FG; Aldridge: 25/7/3; Hickson: 15/14/1
MIL 23 10 30 25 | 88 [15-23] - Jennings: 19/3/4; Kaman: 17/6/1; Ellis: 11/4/5

Carter, Hickson Lead Blazers Past Magic
1/14/2014 - Magic 83 @ Trail Blazers 91

Portland rallied back from a double digit deficit to beat the lowly Orlando Magic thanks to solid defense and Vince Carter's best game so far for the team. Dwight Howard had 17 rebounds but just managed just four points, hitting just 2 of his 8 free throw attempts.

ORL 29 21 16 17 | 83 [21-15] - Nelson: 17/5/11; T. Harris: 17/8/1; Afflalo: 15/2/5
POR 17 20 33 21 | 91 [27-13] - V. Carter: 20/4/3; HIckson: 17/15/0; Lillard: 13/2/7

Rose, Bulls Out-Duel Lillard, Blazers
1/19/2014 - Bulls 88 @ Trail Blazers 79

Damian Lillard may have outscored Derrick Rose 25-23, but the struggling Bulls managed to get back to .500 with a big road win in Portland. The first half was close, with Portland unable to stop Rose but the wheels came off when the Bulls opened the third quarter on a 17-6 run. "This is how we need to play if we're going to make the playoffs, but even so, we'll do jack s*** when we get there unless we can do this on a consistent basis", commented Tom Thibodeau.

CHI 28 21 22 17 | 88 [21-21] - Rose: 23/3/10; Noah: 13/15/2; J. Butler: 11/3/2
POR 26 17 13 23 | 79 [27-14] - Lillard: 25/1/6; Aldridge: 15/7/3; Hickson: 14/5/0

----------

Division Standings

Portland 27-14
Denver 27-16
Oklahoma City 21-17
Utah 22-18
Minnesota 13-27

League Headlines



Lakers sign Pau Gasol to 3 year, $19M extension
Lakers sign Kobe Bryant to 2 year, $29M extension
Smaller deals will give the Lakers a chance to make a run at Iguodala this Summer if Nash retires.
Grizzlies trade Darrell Arthur to 76ers for Dorell Wright
Grizzlies deal longtime backup power forward Arthur to Sixers to fill a need with three-point specialist Dorell Wright
Bobcats trade Tyrus Thomas to Grizzlies for Tayshaun Prince
Memphis makes a seriously questionable move in balancing the rotation from the first trade by swapping Prince for Tyrus Thomas, who has another year on his rich deal.
Mavericks trade Jared Cunningham to Pistons for Kyle Anderson, 2014 2nd rounder
Blockbuster!
Cavs G Brandon Roy Out Until March With Broken Ankle
Roy: "Probably good, because I somehow have stage 5 knee arthritis which previously didn't even exist"
Spurs trade Boris DIaw, 2014 2nd rounder to Pistons for Jonas Jerebko
"Win-now" move for Pistons, who didn't even like Jerebko anyway.
Kyrie Irving Out 8-10 Weeks With Torn Meniscus
Irving officially picks up the "injury prone" tag, will likely miss the all-star game despite leading East guards in voting.

[Valor]

Spurs trade Boris DIaw, 2014 2nd rounder to Pistons for Jonas Jerebko
"Win-now" move for Pistons

Great stuff continuing the strong season. Good to see my Bulls take you out though

[hova-]

Nice summary, some of those trades are just as dumb as IRL (joe D!). 54 wins would be great for your team and somehow it reminds me a lot of the best Blazers team of the decade who had Roy instead of Lillard and other great role players.

[Lamrock]

I like how you get on so fast and may I ask you about your shooting sliders and CPU shooting tendencies? I am looking for improvement right now.

I play on all-star with real shooting FG% and FT%. There are still a couple things I'm looking into (consistency and injury frequency), but I've had enjoyable results. I've gone back and forth, but at this point, it doesn't deviate much from the game's Simulation sliders.

All Simulation settings except:
3pt: 47/50
Block: 100/100
Def. Rebounding: 100/75
Charging Fouls: 75/75

[Lamrock]

Hey guys - last call to the enter the 2014 nba draft. Being a little further in the game than the story, time is running out!

January recap as well as a couple editorials. Any suggestions? This has been a lot of fun but it feels a little bland without the soap opera and Ms paint

[Durant35]

Am I already in your draft?