The Trail Blazers suffered their third defeat in four games following a 15-point loss to the Nuggets on Thursday. Buoyed by 46 points from their reservers, the Nuggets secured a 114-99 victory over their division rival. For Portland, Hassan Whiteside put together a stellar 33-point, 11-rebound double-double in the loss. In all-too-familiar fashion, the Blazers’ lack of defense and depth cost them as the action unfolded.
First Quarter
Whiteside’s presence was felt on both ends of the floor from the outset of Thursday’s action. The big fella provided the only defensive resistance, securing two blocks in the process.