October 24, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) moves the ball against Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Clippers
If the regular season ended right this second, the Trail Blazers would face the Clippers in the first round. However; there is a more than reasonable chance that the Clippers advance past the fifth seed by season’s end. After their previously addressed home game against the Grizzlies (in which they are favorites) their schedule is arguably soft.
APR 11 vs. MEM (53-25)
APR 13 vs. DEN (29-49)
APR 14 @ PHX (39-40)
More from Blazers News
- Blazers News: Portland signs FIBA WC standout center
- Blazers News: Portland re-signing failed lottery pick
- Portland Trail Blazers NBA 2K24 team, player ratings
- Woj: Blazers, Lillard ‘fully prepared’ for star to be with team in training camp
- 3 Underrated Blazers who could make a massive impact this season
Though the Clippers have struggled with depth issues for most of the season, they are presently one of two teams in the league that are entirely injury free (the other being the Boston Celtics, for those curious). A healthy roster and a light schedule should give them a chance to finish as the second or third seed in the west, but staying at fifth seed is certainly still possible.
The Clippers are a bad matchup for the Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, they are also a better matchup than most of those that are possible, so if the Clippers end up in the five spot, it’s not the worst thing in the world. Trail Blazers Head Coach Terry Stotts would just need to start game planning for high screens and Chris Paul midrange pull-ups as soon as possible.
Next: Potential first round opponent #4