Last time we held them to 66 points in our house (3/28/09). Heres some results of that game. LaMarcus 39 min, 8-16 fgm-a, 18 points Roy 32 min, 7-13 fgma-a, 21 points Oden 22 min, 3-9 fgma-a, 12 points. I am thinking that it will be an attack again feeding Oden and LA for at least 10 field goal attempts with a minimum of 25 minutes playing. I believe this is Nate's game plan for those guys looking back at our other games so far this season. Nate will also focus on using Roy for 30+ minutes again. It will be the battle of Zebo and LA (30+ min). Battle of Gasol and Oden. It will be interesting to see if Rudy will be given the same amount of minutes Friday with his nice 4-5 shooting on 3pointers against NJN. I have a feeling that Rudy won't but its wishful thinking.
I just hope Brandon doesn't have to play more then 25 minutes. Utah is the worse possible place to have a back to back!
The Utah fans hate the Blazers. They will be up for it. I would be shocked if the Blazers are allowed to play physical. Bet on Greg getting an early seat. No one whines more than Sloan and the Utah fans. The only way we win there is if we are hot from the outside, because we will not get the calls underneath.
I'm not sure of his #'s, but since we played them, he has been killing it! Martell will have his hands full!
Hopefully Nate gave them a light workout in the morning friday. Even Nate said on KGW that he keeps turkey away from his diet on the day of game day. Heh. I am thinking that he is sticking with the same lineup from the last two games.
The wildcard is Zach Randolph. If he gets the better of Aldridge inside, it'll be a close game. If the Blazers are able to contain him, or keep the ball away from him, and the Grizzlies are forced to rely on guys like Gay and Conley hitting shots from the outside, the Blazers should win in a walk.
Accuscore has Portland winning with a 90% chance. I have never seen it that high against an opponent!