Trail Blazers optimistic about playoff chase in Western Conference

The Portland Trail Blazers are feeling optimistic as they approach the end of the NBA season. Guard Anfernee Simons expressed his excitement after the team won 115-99 against the Memphis Grizzlies. This marks a significant moment for the Blazers, as they have a chance to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2021. With their recent win, the Blazers are now just two games behind the 10th place in the Western Conference. They have won three straight games, while teams like Dallas and Phoenix have been struggling. Simons noted that every game matters now, which makes the atmosphere more thrilling than in previous years. Despite their hopes, the team is not overly fixated on the play-in race. Simons mentioned that while he follows the standings, players do not frequently discuss it. Blazers coach Chauncey Billups has also chosen to focus the team on their immediate games rather than the playoff situation. Deni Avdija, another player on the team, shares this mindset. He believes the focus should be on winning the next game, not the standings. The Blazers have a challenging schedule ahead, with strong teams like Denver and Boston coming up on their home court. The players feel that worrying about the future can be unproductive. Avdija emphasized the importance of concentrating on each game as it comes. The Blazers are ready to show their character and stay competitive as the season wraps up.