For one half, the shorthanded Portland Trail Blazers looked up to the task of topping the defending-champion Los Angeles Lakers. If only NBA games were 24 minutes! After a second half of adjustments and ultra-aggressive defense, the Lakers were able to pull away for a 102-93 victory. The loss sends Portland to 18-14, and back into the No. 6 spot in the Western Conference standings. The silver lining is that Portland only has three games left before getting an entire week off to rest and recover. Not to encourage mediocrity, but in seasons past, being No.
Lillard Shines, but Lakers Defense Outlasts Blazers
