LA Clippers defeat the Portland Trailblazers on a game winning buzzer beater by JJ Redick- March 2016
The LA Clippers came in vs the pesky Portland Trailblazers trying to avoid their first 4 game losing streak of the year. Coming off a tough loss to Golden St on the road and two bad losses to Memphis and New Orleans, they came out with better energy. The game was back and forth and a struggle at many times. It looked bad early on when Chris Paul tweaked his knee but this guy is so tough and hung in to provide a great lift and not give up. After many lead changes late into the 4th quarter, the visiting Blazers took a 7 point lead late in the game. However, LA hung in and some clutch shots coupled with some turnovers by Portland got the home team back in there.
Damien Lillard hit a long 3 point shot with less than 30 seconds left but Jamal Crawford answered with an incredible 3 point tying shot with 11 seconds to go. Everyone knew the ball was going to Lillard or worst case, sharp shooter and the leagues most improved player CJ McCullom but the Clipper defense prevented that and Mo Harkless forced and missed a bad shot with a second and a half remaining. Lillard had an off game going 4-16 but his team still kept it close. They have over-achieved as they are in 6th place in the western conference as they were predicted to miss the playoffs after losing 4 of their starters and 5 key players from last year including LaMarcus Aldrdige. LA called timeout and Chris Paul took his time and improved a bounce pass through the legs of 7′ Mason Plumlee’s legs to JJ Redick, who hit a game winning shot at the buzzer. Thrilling and much needed as the playoffs approach.
Chris Paul and Jamal Crawford led the way but the team will need a better balance with Jeff Green, Paul Pierce and other key reserves if they want to do any damage in the playoffs this year. Paul is having is best season as a Clipper and will get some MVP votes. DeAndre Jordan should be awarded the defensive player of the year as he is dominant with his presence, shot blocking and rebounding.
Blake Griffin is getting closer but he will not have much court time after he is cleared and then has to serve his 4 game suspension. He should be back for the first round and most likey vs Memphis. However, they should have a huge edge this time if it happens as Memphis is banged up.
Coach Doc Rivers was very complimentary to his defense at the end of the game. He admitted it was a very tough game and the team didn’t really have it going throughout but you never know and he said Crawford kept the team confident in time outs. More at www.clippers.com