The case can be made for any games to be must wins but it seems like for the Blazers in the battle of HCA these next 3 games are games that not only we should win but that really have to win. Knowing that we are about to go on two different 5 games road trips this month really makes home games that we should win even more important especially considering that these are next three games are mostly winnable for ALL of the teams on this list. Current Standings OKC 43-15 - SAS 41-16 1.5 POR 40-18 3.0 LAC 40-20 4.0 HOU 39-19 4.0 Next 3 games OKC 2-28 vs MEM 3-2 vs CHA 3-4 vs PHI SAS 2-28 vs CHA 3-2 vs DAL 3-4 @ CLE POR 3-1 vs DEN 3-3 vs LAL 3-5 vs ATL LAC 3-1 vs NOH 3-4 @ PHX 3-6 @ LAL HOU 3-1 vs DET 3-4 vs MIA 3-5 @ ORL
Interestingly, I think they are all games they can win WITHOUT LA. So do you think for the overall good of the season, do you rest him a lil longer?
Looking at those schedules, I wouldn't be surprised if those 5 teams went a collective 15-0 during that time period. Houston has a toughie against the Heat, but since it's at home, I like their chances.
With the way the last few games have gone for them, OKC better pick up their level of play. Allowing 40 points in the fourth to the who the Bucks? At home no less. Won't cut it
In the big sense of things or in the general sense of things, yes. But there is something to be said about confidence and momentum going into big games or a stretch of big games.
I agree these next three are crucial. The two upcoming road trips are brutal. The next few home games are essential to stay in the hunt for HCA. I was thinking the same thing yesterday when looking over the schedule.