Blazers beat Nuggets despite missing five key players

The Portland Trail Blazers overcame significant injuries to defeat the Denver Nuggets 128-109 on Friday night. Despite missing five players, including Anfernee Simons and Donovan Clingan due to illness, the Blazers showed strong team spirit. Deni Avdija led the way with a season-high 36 points, along with eight rebounds and seven assists. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying the players focused on being aggressive and supporting each other. The win helped the Blazers stay in contention for a playoff spot, just two games behind the 10th place in the Western Conference. Denver was also short-staffed, missing star center Nikola Jokic and two other regular starters. The Blazers’ defense was effective, limiting Denver's shots and forcing 21 turnovers. Coach Chauncey Billups noted the team's focus on their own performance rather than their opponent's lineup. Avdija's recent performances have boosted team confidence and chemistry. Teammate Dalano Banton also stepped up, scoring 19 points, a notable improvement from his recent games. The Blazers’ unselfish play is key to their strategy, with Billups stressing the importance of embracing roles and supporting one another. With only 11 games left, the Blazers are eager to push for a playoff position. Banton highlighted the motivation that being close to qualifying for the play-in games brings to the team. The young squad is determined to keep improving and succeed as a collective unit.