3 Takeaways From Game 2 Portland Trail Blazers Vs Nuggets

The Portland Trail Blazers tied up the series 1-1 after defeating the Denver Nuggets in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semi-Finals.

In Game 1 of the series, the Portland Trail Blazers lacked offensive and defensive production from their role players. In game 2 this was a different story, the role players stepped up big time in the areas they lacked in the first game. The Nuggets wasn’t able to capitalize on their home court advantage and continue the success they had in the first game. They struggled to make key baskets and going on consistent runs as the Nuggets key players were inconsistent all night.

Now with the series all tied up, the Blazers will have home court advantage as they will play in the Moda Center for both Games 3 and 4. Here are some key takeaways from the Blazers 97-90 victory over the Nuggets in Game 2:

Lillard’s Rough Night

After Damian Lillard’s explosion in Game 1 scoring 39 points, he came into Game 2 shooting the basketball rather poorly. Lillard shot 29% from the field going 5-17, and 14% on three-pointers going 1-7. In result of that, he ended the night with 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Lillard has not shot the three-pointer well this series, which is surprising after he was bombing long three-pointers against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round. So far in this series, Lillard is shooting 26% going 5-19 on three-pointers.

Even though the Blazers were victorious in this game, they still need to apply as much pressure to close out the Nuggets. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray didn’t have amazing performances in this game, and that will more than likely change in Game 3. The Blazers are going to need Lillard shooting the basketball consistently at a higher rate to win this series.

Blazers’ Role Players Step Up

The Blazers role players stepped up in this game, something that was lacking in the first game of this series. The production from the role players on offense and defense helped limit the Nuggets and was a key reason to how the Blazers tied up the series.

Al-Farouq Aminu stepped up offensively and defensively in this game. Aminu had a double-double as he contributed to 11 points and was active on the boards for 10 rebounds. He led the Blazers in rebounds in this game and harassed Paul Millsap on defense limiting his production.

Enes Kanter continued to show his importance to the Blazers in this series as he battled with Jokic all night. He ended the night with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Zach Collins and Rodney Hood both combined for 25 points in the game. The Blazers are going to need consistent production from these players to close out this talented Nuggets team.

Maurice Harkless Ankle Injury

Midway through the 2nd quarter of the game, Blazers’ starting forward Maurice Harkless went down with a right ankle injury. He went to the locker room after being examined by the trainers on the bench. He did not return for the rest of the game.

During a play involving a Nikola Jokic missed layup in which Harkless and teammate Zach Collins contested the shot. Harkless landed on Collins and rolled his right ankle. Harkless played around 12 minutes and ended the night with 5 points and 4 rebounds. Harkless may be questionable to play in Game 3. If Harkless doesn’t play, it will be interesting to see where Coach Terry Stotts will look to lean on to replace Harkless.