Mavericks eliminate Blazers in Six games!

By Kshell

The Dallas Mavericks led by Dirk Nowitzki who scored 33 points were too much for the Portland Trail Blazers ending their season in the first round for the third consecutive year 103-96. The Blazers for the third straight year lose in the first round in six games and for the second straight season are eliminated at home despite the series at one point being 2-2. The Blazers in the playoffs have been beat up the last three years which is odd considering the last two years the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks have the "soft" label. Now the Blazers season is over the offseason begins and they are no longer that team on the rise. It appears that window has slammed shut and they must find a new way to be a title contender which will be tough. For the Mavericks they got the first round monkey off their back by rallying to win the last two games after the epic collapse in game four. The Mavericks who had at one point a 15 point lead let it get down to one point but unlike game four the Mavericks held on due to Nowitzki scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter. The Mavericks also overcame a hot start by the Blazers to clinch the series on the road.

In the first quarter the Blazers came out on fire playing like a team who wanted to keep their season alive. The Blazers sprinted out to a 27-19 lead in the first quarter behind Gerald Wallace who scored 13 points on five for seven shooting while grabbing six rebounds. The Blazers also got six points from Wesley Matthews and LaMarcus Aldrdige who had a poor game five. The Mavericks had six points from Nowitzki and Shawn Marion as well. The Blazers shot well making 11-20(55.0%) from the field and two of five from three point range. While the Mavericks shot poorly making just 8-23(34.8%) from the field and just one of four from three point range. The Blazers were hitting their shots and the Mavericks weren't. It had appeared that the Mavericks were mailing this game in and going back to Dallas for a game seven. Then something stranged happened as a seldom used player on the Blazers made a foul on the best player for the Mavericks which woke up Nowitzki.

The Blazers had extended their lead to 31-19 on the Mavericks. Then shortly later Chris Johnson committed a flagerent foul on Nowitzki. After leading 31-19 the Mavericks outscored the Blazers 33-12. The Mavericks for the quarter had outscored the Blazers 33-16 in second quarter as Nowitzki scored 13 points to give him a game high 19 points at halftime. The Mavericks who once trailed by 12 points took a 52-43 lead going into halftime. The Mavericks had shot much better that quarter making 11-22(50.0%) of their shots, made three three's while making all eight free throw attempts. The Blazers shot horrible making 8-22(36.4%) from the field while missing all five three point attempts. The Blazers let the Mavericks take over momentum as their season was down to just one half.

For the Mavericks they were led by Dirk Nowitzki who scored 19 points on 8-11 shooting including making all three free throws. Shawn Marion scored eight points on 3-10 shooting with five rebounds. Jason Terry added 10 points off the bench making three of eight shots including two three pointers. While Peja Stojakovic scored six points wihle making a three pointer to give the Mavericks the much needed bench scoring. Nowitzki was too much for the Blazers after that flagerent foul. For the Blazers they were led by Wallace scoring 13 points on five for seven shooting with six rebounds. Aldridge had 12 points on 6-13 shooting with five rebounds but had zero free throw attempts. Matthews had scored eight points on three for seven shooting including making a three pointer. Brandon Roy had also scored six points on three for five shooting. The Mavericks in the third quarter for the third straight game would go into the fourth quarter with a double digit lead on the Blazers.

In the third quarter the Mavericks did their best to end the Blazers hopes right there. The Mavericks had outscored the Blazers 23-19 to take a commanding 75-62 lead going into the fourth quarter. The Mavericks had a 75-60 lead but Wallace was fouled at the buzzer and sank both free throws. The quarter saw once again the Mavericks shooting well while the Blazers still not shooting well at all. The Mavericks made 11-19(57.9%)from the field and overall were shooting 30-64(46.9%) from the field. While the Blazers had made just 6-16(37.5%) from the field and overall were shooting 25-59(42.3%) from the field and just 3-13(23.1%) from three point range. To that point the Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who had 19 points and nine rebounds. Marion had 14 points and six rebounds wihle Terry added 18 points on 7-14 shooting and five assists. The Blazers were led by Wallace who had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Aldridge had 16 points on 8-19 shooting with seven rebounds with Roy scoring nine points on four for six shooting. The Blazers would have one last final push in them.

In the fourth quarter the Blazers made a huge rally led by Wallace scoring 12 and Aldridge scoring eight points. The Blazers had cut a 75-60 deficit down to one point as they trailed 86-85 with under five minutes to go. That is when veteran Jason Kidd hit a huge three pointer and the Mavericks never looked back. In the fourth the Blazers outscored the Mavericks 34-28 but fell short 103-96. Nowitzki was huge in the fourth quarter like he was in games one and two scoring 14 points on three for four shooting but made all eight free throw attempts. Nowitzki had closed the Blazers out in the fourth quarter. The win for the Mavericks snapped an eight game road losing streak in the playoffs. The Mavericks will move on to face the L.A. Lakers while the Blazers once again will be heading home.

For the Mavericks they were led by Nowitzki scoring 33 points on 11-17 shooting and made all 11 free throw attempts. He also grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out four assists. The Mavericks bench came up big again outscoring the Blazers bench 35-14 led by Terry who scored 22 points on 9-16 shooting with eight assists. Stojakovic added six points off the bench and J.J. Barea scored seven points with four assists on three for five shooting. Marion scored 16 points on 7-15 shooting with six rebounds and Tyson Chandler scored nine points with seven rebounds. Kidd who had a big series scored seven points with six assists. Now for the first time in Nowitzki's career he'll face off with Kobe Bryant in a playoff series which is crazy since both have been all-stars for a decade on good teams.

For the Blazers it's back to the drawing board this offseason. The team has changed quite a bit from the team who lost to the Houston Rockets two years ago. The Blazers got rid of Joel Pryzbilla, Steve Blake, Travis Outlaw and Martell Webster. The Blazers have brought in Marcus Camby, Andre Miller, Wesley Matthews and Gerald Wallace yet still first round exits. With all these changes the results have actually been worse far as wins go and the playoffs has been the same with another first round exit in six games. The Blazers were led today by Wallace who scored a playoff career high 32 points on 10-17 shooting and was 11-12 from the free throw line. Wallace also grabbed 12 rebounds as he finally had a breakthrough game for the Blazers. Aldridge broke out of his mini slump by scoring 24 points but shot just 11-25 from the field and attempted just four free throws. Matthews scored 19 points on 5-14 shooting and Roy scored nine of the teams 14 bench points. The Blazers will now have to make some tough decisions in the offseason.

Overall, the Blazers season ends in disappointment. This was supposed to be the year the Blazers finally break through. The Oklahoma City Zombies and Chicago Bulls have broken through while the Memphis Grizzlies are on the verge as well. The Blazers the last two years probably got the matchup they wanted the most and couldn't capitalize on it. For the Mavericks they move on to play the Lakers in what should be a fantastic series. Two superstars who have never played each other in the playoffs in Nowitzki and Kobe Bryant should be fun. The Blazers can only wonder what it would feel like to be in the second round something this franchise hasn't done since 2000. The Blazers once again will be talking about next year instead of the season at hand. The Mavericks are moving on this year while the Blazers can only sit and wonder what if for the third straight season.

Observations:

- Want to win a playoff series? I suggest getting a superstar because they win in the playoffs. Nowitzki was a superstar this playoff series for the Mavericks. For the series Nowitzki averaged 27.3 PPG on 52-115(45.2%) shooting from the field while making 56-63(88.9%) from the foul line. Nowitzki also averaged 7.8 rebounds a game. Nowitzki averaged 10.5 free throw attempts a game while making 9.3 a game. Nowitzki was agressive and was rewarded with trips to the foul line.

Speaking of which in the Mavericks four wins Nowitzki shot 52 free throws(13 per game) while in the two losses he only shot 11(5.5 per game) which is a huge difference. Nowitzki in the fourth quarter was dominant in three of the games he scored in double figures carrying the Mavericks. Nowitzki was a matchup nightmare for the Blazers just like Amare Stoudamire was last year and Yao Ming was the year before. Start to notice a theme? The Blazers are soft in the middle and need another big.

- Remember when Dennis Green went off how the Bears are who we thought they were? Well LaMarcus Aldridge is who I've said he is for years. Blazers fans refuse to listen to me but I've said he is a great jump shooting big man who is soft. This series hasn't changed my opinion one bit. Aldridge put up solid numbers averaging 20.8 points per game while shooting 53-115(46.1%) from the field. He averaged 7.5 rebounds a game which is pretty bad for a power forward. The stat that jumps out to me is that he attempted 115 field goals and just 24 free throws(4.0 attempts a game). That tells me Aldridge is just camping outside jacking up jumper after jumper. Nowitzki shot 39 more free throws than Aldridge in just six games and that wasn't because the refs were "screwing" him either.

It could be Aldridge got frustrated by the physical style of play of Chandler and Brenden Haywood as his production went down as the series wore on. Aldridge in games one through three averaged 23.7 points per game on 30-59(50.8%) from the field while grabbing just 6.7 rebounds a game. In games four through six he averaged only 18.0 points per game while shooting 23-56(41.1%) from the field which is horrible for a power forward. He did average 8.3 rebounds a game though. If the Blazers ever wish to win a playoff series with this group Aldridge has to get tougher or the Blazers need to acquire another guy to help make up for Aldridge being soft.

- Gerald Wallace had a huge game today scoring 32 points while grabbing 12 rebounds but for the most part he had a bad series. Before today Wallace was averaging just 11.8 points per game on 20-50(40.0%) shooting but did grab 8.6 rebounds a game. So his series stats are going to be a bit inflated due to this one huge game.

Wallace was supposed to bring a much needed toughness to this team. For the most part Wallace was the Blazers top rebounder but scoring other than game six he didn't do enough. He was supposed to be the missing piece to finally get this team over the hump and win a playoff series. Now the Blazers will search for that next piece. I do think Wallace is a good fit for the Blazers as they need his toughness at the small forward position. Due to Wallace being on the team that makes another Blazer pretty expendable.

- I think if the Blazers were to ever win a playoff series with this group the time is to trade Nicolas Batum. I know Batum will only be 23 this December but he has the most value to other teams. He is also proven now in three playoff series with the club that he pulls a Cliff Robinson like disappearing act. This year Batum averaged just eight points per game on 19-46(41.3%) shooting from the field and even worst 7-26(26.9%) from three point range. Batum scored 24 in the first two games and then just scored six points per game including today where he scored zero points. In the last four games Batum shot 9-25(36.0%) from the field and just 4-14(28.6%) from three pointers.

Last year Batum in the playoffs averaged just 8.2 points per game but again like this year scored 30 points first two games. The final four games of the series Batum averaged just 4.8 points per game including three points in the final game of the series. Batum in that four game stretch shot just 5-16(31.2%) from the field during that stretch. Then his rookie year he averaged just 2.0 points per game and was so unproductive he played a combined seven minutes after starting the bulk of the season. When are Blazer fans going to realize he is more likely to be the next Travis Outlaw than the next All-Star? Now is the time to deal Batum for a big while he still has that "Potential" word. Batum still has value to another team. Trade him now for a big time point guard or another big.

- Nate McMillan now falls to 6-12 in the playoffs as Blazers head coach and overall is 14-20 in his career in the playoffs. He has never had great teams but he has also been a coach in this league for 11 seasons now and has only advanced past the first round one time. At what point does McMillan be held accountable? Losing in the first round three years in a row wouldn't have been acceptable back in 2009 so why should it be now?

The Blazers have changed their roster from the team who lost two years ago. Only Roy, Aldridge and Batum are the only main players who are left from that team. I think the Blazers need to move on from Roy and Greg Oden. Treat both players as bonus players at this point and find suitable replacements so you aren't left scrambling when they do get hurt during the season. If the Blazers don't advance past the first round next season I think McMillan will be fired and there will be a major shakeup. This will be the final season that guys are allowed to keep their jobs after losing in the first round.

In conclusion, the team who once had the brightest future in the NBA back in 2008 appears headed for mediocrity. The NBA is all about getting that franchise top five player. You get those players in the NBA draft lottery well the Blazers like they did in the 1980's passed on that player(Kevin Durant) and will now make the playoffs every year meaning they won't get that chance for another 20 years. That is the problem for teams like Portland you have to hit a home run on your few chances in the draft lottery or you won't win a title. Makes me appreciate the San Antonio Spurs run more when I think about it. Unlike Miami, L.A., and New York free agents aren't taking their talents to Portland. Portland just like Seattle in other sports either drafts stars or trades for them. Stop and think about the last time Portland or a Seattle team signed a "mega" free agent? Okay now that you realized they aren't any you've realized just how hard it is. For the Blazers the team whose future was so bright just three years ago is facing the sad truth of the NBA world. They had their chance and they blew it by passing on Durant. Now the Blazers just like the 1980's will have to live with that mistake forever. At this point the Blazers will just settle for a playoff series victory which for the third year in a row will have to wait until "next year".

Mavs win 93-82 to take 3-2 series lead over Blazers

By Kshell

The Dallas Mavericks led by Tyson Chandler's offensive rebounding held home court advantage defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 93-82 to take a three games to two lead. Now the Mavericks are just one game away from winning the series. For the Blazers this is the third straight year they trail three games to two. The previous two years the Blazers lost game six which they are hoping to avoid this year. The Mavericks got over the game four collapse by rebounding the ball. The Mavericks had 20 offensive rebounds while attempting 35 free throws including 31 in the first three quarters. The Mavericks played physical with the Blazers who couldn't buy a bucket either to prevail in game five. Tyson Chandler scored 14 points and grabbed 20 rebounds including 13 offensive rebounds to keep several possessions alive for the Mavericks. For the Blazers nobody had a stand out game as they will travel back to Portland hoping this wasn't their last game in Dallas. For the Mavericks they hope to close out the series in Portland on Thursday night at the Rose Garden.

In the first quarter the Blazers knew they were facing a wounded soldier in the Mavericks. The Blazers took the crowd out of the game when trailing 15-12 closed the quarter on a 8-0 run to lead 20-15 end of the first quarter. The Mavericks had a ton of nervous energy in the arena from the game four collapse and previous playoff failures. The Mavericks made just 6-16(37.5%) shots from the field while making just two of six free throws. Only thing keeping the Mavericks in the game was Tyson Chandler who scored seven points and grabbed seven rebounds. Dirk Nowitzki scored just four points on two for five shooting. While the Blazers whot 10-21(47.6%) from the field but didn't attempt a free throw. The Blazers were led by Wesley Matthews who wcored six points on three for four shooting. Gerald Wallace came out aggressive scoring four points on two for four shooting. LaMarcus Aldridge came out slow scoring just two points on one for three shooting. The Blazers did want they wanted to do which was take an early lead and try and take the crowd out of the game. Then in the second half the Blazers let a big opportunity slip away.

The Blazers extended their run to an 11-0 run to take a 23-15 lead over the Mavericks. The tension in the building for the fans you could feel just by watching on t.v. The Blazers had a chance to put the Mavericks away with a good run instead the Mavericks made the run. The Mavericks went on a 14-4 run to take a 29-27 lead. Then with the Blazers leading 43-37 the Mavericks ended the half on a 7-0 run to take the lead 44-43 heading into halftime. In the quarter Nowitzki eight points as he made four of five free throw's. Jason Terry scored seven of his nine points in the second quarter as well. The Mavericks for the quarter shot 10-19(52.6%) from the field and was perfect on eight free throw attempts. The Blazers still shot well making 10-21(47.6%) from the field. The Blazers at halftime had just one free throw attempt while the Mavericks had 14.

For the Blazers despite outplaying the Mavericks found themselves trailing at halftime by a single point. The Blazers were led by Andre Miller with nine points on four for eight shooting including a three point. Miller also dished out five assists. Nicolas Batum came up big in the first half scoring nine points on four for seven shooting with a three pointer. Matthews had six points all from the first quarter. Aldridge had six points along with Wallace who also had six points. The Blazers had shot 20-42(47.6%) from the field while making three of eight from three point range. The Blazers had to be feeling good about their shooting but the Mavericks were more aggressive going to the free throw line 14 times to the Blazers one.

For the Mavericks they were led by Nowitzki who scored 12 points on four for eight shooting including four of five from free throws. Chandler scored seven points on two for two shooting with three of six free throws. Chandler had nine rebounds at halftime. Shawn Marion scored eight points on three for seven shooting. Terry scored nine points on four for seven shooting including a three pointer. The Mavericks shot 16-35(45.7%) from the field and two for five from three point range. The key was making 10 of 14 free throws. In the third quarter the Mavericks would go on a run that would stretch into the fourth quarter to put the Blazers away for good.

In the third quarter started off back and forth as both teams scored 12 points apiece for the Mavericks to hold a slim 56-55 lead. After that the Mavericks ended the quarter on a 19-8 run which for the second straight game destroyed the Blazers in the third quarter. Unlike the last game the Blazers didn't have the home crowd to help them back in the game. The Mavericks outscored the Blazers 31-20 in the third quarter. The Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who scored 11 points in the quarter on three for seven shooting while making five of six free throws. Nowitzki after three quarters had 23 points on 7-15 shooting and was 9-11 at the foul line. Chandler was big in the quarter scoring six points while grabbing four rebounds to give him 13 points and 13 rebounds. The Mavericks shot 13-14 from the free line that quarter and scored 31 points despite not making a single three pointer. The Mavericks would extend their run into the fourth.

The Mavericks put the game away in the fourth quarter by starting the fourth on a 14-6 run to lead 89-69. The Blazers would finally start scoring when the game no longer mattered. The Blazers technically won the quarter 19-18 but the Mavericks had already did the damage winning 93-82. The Mavericks as a team shot 32-78(41.0%) from the field while making just 3-17(17.6%) from three point range. The Mavericks won the game due to making 26-35(74.3%) from the free throw line. The Mavericks outrebounded the Blazers 49-37 with 20 offensive rebounds. The Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who scored 25 points on 8-18 shooting while making 9-11 from the foul line. Terry scored 20 points off the bench on 8-18 shooting while making a three pointer. The X-Factor was Chandler who scored 14 points on three for four shooting while making 8-12 free throws. Chandler also grabbed 20 rebounds including 13 offensive. Marion was big scoring 14 points on 6-14 shooting with four steals and two blocks. Then Jason Kidd who shot bad had a good all around game scoring four points but dished out 14 assists with seven rebounds. For the Mavericks they held homecourt and know at the very worst there will be a game seven at home.

For the Blazers they probably felt like they let one get away. The Blazers outplayed the Mavericks in the first half then got run off the court in the second half. The Blazers were led by Miller who scored 18 points on 8-14 shooting with seven assists. Then Wallace scored 16 points on 5-11 shooting with nine rebounds. Aldridge had just 12 points on 6-15 shooting. He has played poorly the last two games. Batum scored 12 points on 5-12 shooting. Game three hero Matthews had just eight points and two points after the first quarter. While game four hero Brandon Roy had just five points on two for seven shooting. Now the Blazers must return home hoping to win the first game six of Nate McMillan's career. The home crowd should help out with the free throw disparity.

Overall, the Mavericks rebounded nicely from the devastating loss in game four. The Mavericks just controlled the glass especially by Chandler who had 13 offensive rebounds considering the Blazers as a team had just nine offensive rebounds. Chandler is keeping possessions alive and the Mavericks needed that as they didn't shoot very well. The Blazers return home knowing just one more loss and their season will end for the third straight year in the first round in six games. The Blazers will have Rose Garden rocking and hope Brandon Roy can play well at home like he did last time. Typically at home you shoot more free throw's and your role players step up more. So far in this series that has been the case. For the Blazers they have to box out better or they'll be going on vacation sooner than they had liked.

Observations:

- Well I had praised the play of LaMarcus Aldridge this series but he has been downright terrible the last two games. Today Aldrdige had just 12 points and nine rebounds on 6-15(40.0%) shooting from the field. He didn't attempt a single free throw either.

His scoring has decreased each game this series. For the series now Aldridge is averaging 20.2 PPG while shooting 42-90(46.7%) from the field and just seven rebounds a game. In the last two games Aldridge is averaging just 15.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG while shooting 12-31(38.7%) from the field. For the series Aldridge has attempted just 20 free throws(4.0 attempts per game) which shows he isn't being aggressive at all. Aldridge started this postseason off hot but lately he is looking like the soft Aldridge of old.

- Where Brandon Roy goes this team goes it appears this series. In the Blazers two wins which were both at home Roy has averaged 20.0 PPG on 15-23(65.2%) shooting from the field. While making three three pointers. In the Blazers three losses which have all been on the road Roy is averaging just 2.3 PPG while shooting 3-15(20.0%) from the field.

Now Roy is a former all-star so he isn't one of those good at home while being bad on the road type of role player. I think Roy at this point in his career will show you flashes of 2009 Roy like he did in game four while also showing that is still not healthy like the three losses. The Blazers will need Roy and Aldridge to play their best game in game six to stay alive.

- Tyson Chandler was the big X-Factor today scoring 14 points while grabbing 20 rebounds. Heading into the game today he had scored just 16 points for the series. Chandler got to the line 12 times making eight of them with his 13 offensive rebounds. Going into today Chandler had averaged 3.8 offensive rebounds a game which is pretty high but not 13 high.

Chandler won't score that much again but when he rebounds the Mavericks win and when he is in foul trouble like he was in Portland the Mavericks lost both games. Chandler in the Mavericks three wins is averaging 7.3 PPG and 13.0 RPG. In the two losses Chandler averaged 4.0 PPG and 5.5 RPG with 5.5 fouls a game. So if the refs let Chandler play he will dominate this Blazers team. If the refs call a tight game on Chandler then the Blazers will have a chance to win.

- Nate McMillan's playoff record on the road falls to 3-14 which obviously has to improve if the Blazers wish to advance in this series. McMillan is also 0-3 all-time in game six which is a bad sign for the Blazers. Today nothing McMillan did was the "wrong" move as the Blazers were just getting dominated on the glass. Perhaps he should have played Marcus Camby more than 20 minutes or Chris Johnson more than six minutes. Ultimately the Blazers couldn't box out or hit any shots. McMillan is hoping to get out of the first round for only the second time in his 11 year coaching career.

All in all, the Blazers will return home where they are 4-0 on the year against the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavericks are hoping to close out a playoff series on the road for the first time since 2009 when they beat the Spurs in five games. The Blazers will need their stars like Roy and Aldridge to step up to have a chance. At home the Blazers crowd will be into it. Eventually going forward the Blazers know they have to defeat the Mavericks in Dallas which they are now 0-5 against. For now it's one game at a time as the Blazers season is now on the line. The Blazers are trying to avoid being eliminated in the first round for the third straight season. The Blazers have only advanced past the first round twice since 1993 so history is against them. All the Blazers have to do is win at home then play a game seven which anything can happen. No time to hold back it's do or die for the Blazers. Game six at the Rose Garden will be rocking hoping the Blazers will be joining the Mavericks on the flight back to Dallas.

Roy helps Blazers overcome 23 point deficit to win game four 84-82 over Mavs!

By Kshell

The Portland Trail Blazers were getting destroyed on their home floor 67-44 to the Dallas Mavericks then everything changed. That is when former three time all-star Brandon Roy put the Blazers on his back to even up the series at two games a piece. Roy led the Blazers on a 40-15 charge scoring 21 of his 24 points over the last 13 minutes of the game. Roy looked like the Roy of of 2009 hitting one clutch shot after another. This is why sports is so great you just never know what is going to happen. The Blazers looked about as helplessly out of a ballgame I had seen. The Blazers had one of the worst quarters in NBA playoff history in the third quarter followed by one of their best in franchise history. That mostly due to Brandon Roy hitting one tough shot after another in the fourth. Roy after tying the game up with a four point play would then hit the go ahead bucket to put the Blazers up 84-82 with 39.5 seconds left. Now the Blazers will fly to Dallas with the series tied. For the Mavericks this will be one of the longer plane flights home for a franchise who has choked many times before.

The first quarter reminded people of the 2011 college basketball national title game. Both teams were pretty horrible hitting shots especially the Blazers. The Mavericks led 16-11 after one quarter due to the Blazers shooting so poorly. The Blazers had just two guys score with Andre Miller scoring six points and Wesley Matthews scoring five points. LaMarcus Aldridge had missed all four field goal attempts. The Blazers shot just 4-16(25.0%) from the field in the first quarter. The Mavericks were led by DeShawn Stevenson who scored six points while making two three pointers. Dirk Nowitzki for the fourth straight game struggled in the first quarter scoring just three points on one for five shooting. The Mavericks made 6-19(32.0%) from the field but did make four of seven three pointers. In the second quarter would feature more scoring by both teams.

In the second quarter the Mavericks sprinted out to a 33-23 lead on the Blazers determine to put the Blazers away. The Blazers would respond by going on a 10-2 run to end half down just 37-35. For the Mavericks they shot 10-23(43.4%) for the quarter. They were led by Nowitzki who scored six points on three for four shooting. The Mavericks for the half were led by Nowitzki scoring nine points on four for nine shooting. Jason Kidd had scored six points on two for three shooting including two three pointers and two steals. For the half the Mavericks had shot 16-42(38.1%) from the field and 5-10(50.0%) from three point range. The Mavericks had a chance to put the Blazers away but let the Blazers pull within two points.

For the Blazers that 10-2 run gave them momentum going into the second half. In the second quarter the Blazers shot much better at 7-15(46.7%) from the field and were 10-10(100.0%) from free throws. The Blazers saw Gerald Wallace, Miller and Aldridge all score six points. For the half the Blazers were led by Miller who scored 12 points on four for six shooting and was perfect on four free throw attempts. Matthews scored seven points while making a three pointer on three for six shooting. Aldridge continued to struggle scoring six points on one for seven shooting but had three block shots. In fact the Blazers had seven block shots in the first half. Wallace scored six points on two for five shooting but grabbed seven rebounds. The Blazers defense and free throws were saving them as they were 12-12 from the foul line in the first half. The Blazers who had momentum would play their worst quarter of the season in the third quarter.

The third quarter was a disaster for the Blazers as the Mavericks looked to put them away this game and for the series. The Blazes missed their first 12 field goal attempts of the quarter. The Blazers didn't make their first field goal until 1:32 left in the third quarter. The Mavericks came out on a run leading 54-39 then their largest lead of the game 67-44. The Blazers would end the quarter on a 5-0 run including a Roy three pointer to close the lead to 67-49. At that point the game and the series for that matter appeared to be over. The Mavericks had outscored the Blazers 30-14 in the third quarter. The Mavericks shot 10-17(58.9%) from the field and made four of eight from three point range. The Mavericks were perfect on six free throw attempts. To that point Nowitzki had scored 16 points on 6-14 shooting. Shawn Marion had scored 10 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Peja Stojakovic had made two three pointers that quarter to give him six points. For the Blazers they had shot just 3-18(16.7%) from the field. They were led by Miller who had 12 points and Aldridge who had 12 points on just 3-12 shooting. The Blazers game four hopes looked done then Brandon Roy took over.

The fourth quarter was pretty magical to see Roy lead the comeback. I had text my friend throughout the whole game. He was optimistic and mentioned how this could be like Celtics-Nets game three of 2002 when the Blazers had pulled within 73-62 and Roy was going off. The Mavericks who to that point were shooting 26-59(44.1%) from the field couldn't buy a bucket. While the Blazers who to that point were shooting 14-49(28.6%) from the field couldn't miss. The Blazers who were trailing 80-72 with under three minutes to go continued the late charge. Then with under a 1:15 left in the game the Blazers trailed 82-78 Roy hits a three pointer and was fouled by Marion. Roy sank the free throw to tie the game up at 82-82. The Rose Garden crowd to that point was going crazy. Then after a defensive stop the Blazers put the ball in Roy's hands once again and he delivered. Roy hit the mid range jump shot just inside the free throw line with 39.5 seconds left to give the Blazers an 84-82 lead. After a Kidd missed three the Blazers had a chance to put the game away. Roy would miss the three pointer but would get back in time on defense to cover Jason Terry who missed the potential game winner as time expired. The Blazers had pulled off the comeback win 84-82. For the quarter the Mavericks shot just 5-17(29.4%) from the field and made just one out of eight three point attempts. For the Blazers they shot 15-20(75.0%) from the field as Roy scored 18 points in the final quarter. The Blazers had pulled off the miracle win to even the series now.

For the Mavericks this loss has to hurt and for the next 48 hours their previous playoff failures will be brought up. To this date the Mavericks have been mentally weak and now they return home knowing they blew a golden opportunity this series. The Mavericks had a 2-0 series lead and a 23 point lead in game four. Now the series is tied at 2-2 which has to be a shock. For the Mavericks they were led by Nowitzki who scored 20 points on 7-17 shooting but had just two rebounds. Then Marion had a good game for the Mavericks scoring 12 points on 6-11 shooting while grabbing 11 rebounds. The key was both Kidd and Terry had bad games. For Kidd he scored nine points while making three three's but didn't make a shot in the fourth quarter. For Terry he had 13 points on 5-16 shooting and had the worst +/- on the team with a negative 15 in his 32 minutes of playing time. For one team suffering that means another team is jumping for joy which the Blazers have to be doing right now.

For the Blazers to pull this comeback off in basically a must win was impressive. The Blazers have all the confidence in the world plus their former all-star is playing like an all-star the last two games. Roy after scoring just two points the first two games has scored 40 points the last two games. The Blazers were led by Roy who scored 24 points off the bench on 9-13 shooting while grabbing four rebounds and dishing out five assists. Aldridge had a nice fourth quarter finishing with 18 points on 6-16 shooting but was three for four in the fourth quarter. Miller continued his strong playoffs scoring 14 points on 5-10 shooting while Matthews scored 11 points on 4-10 shooting. Then Wallace who 10 points on three for nine shooting also grabbed 11 rebounds for the double-double. Now the Blazers will fly to Dallas knowing Roy is back and have all the confidence.

Overall, it will be interesting to see how both teams react to this comeback win by the Blazers. Will the Mavericks give up on the series and let this lose carry over to game five? Will the Blazers have a false sense of hope now? Should be interesting as game five is a very pivotal game especially for the Mavericks. If Roy is playing like this the Blazers might be the second or third best team in the Western Conference. That is the key for the playoffs they are a solid team without Roy now and if he is the Roy of 2009 they are tough to beat. The Mavericks have to be worried as the playoff choke jobs of 2006,2007, and 2010 will be brought up yet again. For one team this will be a great flight to Dallas while for another team they will be in shock as to what exactly happened. Should be a great game five to see how both teams react.

Observations:

- I felt Aldridge had a poor first three quarters but once again still managed to score 18 points. Aldridge started the game off missing six of his first seven shots and six of those shots were long jumpers. Then in the fourth Aldridge managed to score six points making three of four jumpers. Aldridge is having a nice playoff series as I've talked about before. The good news is when Roy is playing well Aldridge doesn't have to averaged 25+ points a game.

For the series now Aldridge is averaging 22.3 points per game while grabbing 6.5 rebounds a game. He is shooting 36-75(48.0%) from the field for the series. The key is unlike the first two games he isn't getting dominated by Nowitzki in fact he is actually outscoring Nowitzki in the fourth quarter unlike the games in Dallas.

- After the game one loss fans called in to 1080 the fan on the post game show and complained how Roy played too many minutes. Then after game two when Roy complained about a lack of playing time again fans complained how he was "selfish". Those same "fans" are probably praising him right now which is nothing new for Roy. While Greg Oden and other Blazers constantly get a free pass those same "supporting" fans seem to do the same for their only all-star in the last 10 years.

Roy put the team on his back scoring 24 points on 9-13 shooting. Roy scored 21 points during the Blazers 40-15 run in the final 13 minutes to win the game. Roy tied the game with his four point play then won the game on the next possession. Roy also made it so Terry had to shoot a tough shot on the final shot of the game. Roy after struggling down in Dallas the past two games in Portland both wins by the way has averaged 20.0 points per game on 15-23(65.2%) shooting from the field. If Roy continues to play like these two games in Portland the Blazers will win this series in six games.

- Nate McMillan improves his playoff record to 14-18 and is now 5-1 all-time in game four's. In game five's he is 2-3 all-time and 0-3 on the road. McMillan got on his guys about the effort at the end of the third quarter and once again trusted Roy. In the fourth when Roy was on fire he didn't even try to rest Roy he let Roy be Roy. Now McMillan can only hope that this Roy comes to play for him down in Dallas. This is the Blazers ace up their sleeve. McMillan pressed all the right buttons at home but now must find a way to win on the road which he is only 3-13 all-time on the road.

In conclusion, I think this game really will come back to win two games for the Blazers. I don't think the Mavericks are mentally tough enough to overcome a defeat like the one they experienced today. The Blazers know all the pressure is on the Mavericks in game five at home. The local media is going to be talking about the Mavericks previous playoff failures for tomorrow and game day. While the Blazers will be relaxed knowing they have nothing to lose this game. The Blazers also know if they win coming back home up three games to two the series is over. The Blazers just have to hope for Roy to keep playing like he is playing and they should be fine. While the Mavericks have to find a way to get Nowitzki involved in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki down in Dallas averaged 16.0 points per game in the fourth quarter while in Portland he scored 6.5 points per game. The series now goes back to Dallas and now becomes a best of three games. For the Blazers they'll gladly take that while the Mavericks have to wonder what happened. Game five should be interesting to see how the Mavericks react. Just remember if Roy is back to being 2009 version of Roy the Blazers will not only win this series but they'll push the Lakers the following series. Now the Blazers just hope Roy can deliver once again down in Dallas.

Blazers win game three 97-92 behind Matthews playoff career high 25 points

By Kshell

The Portland Trail Blazers just needed some home cooking as they defeated the Dallas Mavericks(lead series 2-1) 97-92 in game three to pull within two games to one. For the Blazers they had balanced scoring which prevailed over the Dallas Mavericks who had just two guys score in double figures. The Blazers were led by Wesley Matthews who scored a playoff career high 25 points including four three pointers. The Blazers also had a big lift off the bench from former all-star Brandon Roy who scored 16 points including nine points in the second quarter. The Mavericks kept the game close due to Jason Terry scoring 29 points off the bench but Dirk Nowitzki didn't have the fourth quarter magic like he has the last two games. For the Blazers they took care of business at home and must win game four at home to tie this series up. So far including the regular season these teams have played seven games which the home team has won every game. The Blazers were feeling great at home behind two players were who were pretty quiet in games one and two.

The Blazers behind the home crowd came out fired up starting the game off going up 10-2. Matthews was huge in the first quarter hitting two three pointers in that 10-2 run. The Mavericks then fought back with Terry scoring off the bench. The Blazers at the end of the first quarter led 28-23 behind Matthews who scored 16 points on six for seven shooting including four for five from three pointers. The Blazers also saw LaMarcus Aldridge score six points on three for seven shooting. The Blazers got a nice contribution from Marcus Camby who scored four points while grabbing four rebounds. The Blazers shot 12-21(57.1%) from the field while making four of six three pointers. For the Mavericks they were kept in the game by Jason Terry who scored 10 points on three for three shooting and was four of five from the foul line. Nowitzki once again had a slow start scoring just two points on one for three shooting. For the Mavericks they shot 9-16(56.3%) from the field but made just one three pointer. The Mavericks also made just four of seven from the free throw line. The Mavericks had weathered the Blazers storm and would storm back in the second quarter.

In the second quarter the Dallas Mavericks pushed back and even had the lead at points during the second quarter. The Mavericks were led in the second quarter by Jason Terry who kept his hot shooting scoring seven points and Nowitzki who scored 11 points on five for seven shooting including a three pointer. For the Blazers to keep pace a familiar face stepped up for them. Roy who played just nine minutes in game two and had scored just two points in two games scored nine points in the quarter. Roy was four for five shooting including a three pointer. Matthews kept up his pace scoring six points in the quarter. The Mavericks had outscored the Blazers in the quarter 29-26 to pull within 54-52 of the Blazers. For The Mavericks they shot 12-19(63.2%) from the field in the quarter and three for eight on three pointers. For the Blazers they shot 11-19(57.9%) from the field in the second quarter. It was a fast pace second quarter and a fast pace half for both teams.

For the Mavericks at halftime they were led by Jason Terry who had scored 17 points on six for seven shooting while making a three pointer. Terry also dished out five assists. Dirk Nowitzki scored 13 points on 6-10 shooting including a three pointer but missed his only free throw attempt. Game two hero Peja Stojakovic scored seven points on three for four shooting including a three pointer. The Mavericks shot 21-35(60.0%) from the field while making 4-11(36.4%) from three point range. The Mavericks had made just 6-10(60.0%) from the free throw line. The Mavericks after the start they had were very content to be down just two points at halftime.

For the Blazers at halftime they were led by Wesley Matthews who scored 22 points on 8-11 shooting including four for six from three point range. Aldridge scored 12 points on 6-12 shooting but had zero rebounds. Then Roy scored nine points on four for five shooting including a three pointer. Andre Miller also scored seven points on three for five shooting including a three pointer with six assists. The Blazers shot 23-40(57.5%) from the field and five of eight from three point range. The Blazers were playing the way they wanted. The problem for the Blazers is they have led at halftime before against this Mavericks team and lost the lead in the fourth quarter. The Blazers would prove in the second half at the Rose Garden is different than in Dallas.

In the third quarter it was a back and forth struggle for both teams. For the Blazers they once again were bailed out by Roy who scored seven points in the quarter to give him 16 points in the game. The Blazers also saw Miller score five points to give him 12 points in the game to that point. The Mavericks were carried by Terry who scored nine points to give him 26 points on 9-10 shooting to that point. For the Blazers they outscored the Mavericks 21-20 to give themselves a slim 75-72 lead heading into the fourth quarter. The Blazers had shot 6-17(35.2%) from the field but made eight of nine free throws. The Mavericks had shot 7-16(43.7%) from the field but did make four of seven three pointers. Heading into the fourth the Mavericks were led by Terry who had 26 points and Nowitzki who scored 16 points on 7-14 shooting but had made just one of three free throws. For the Blazers they were led by Matthews scoring 25 points on 8-11 shooting, Aldridge with 16 points on 8-17 shooting, Miller with 12 points and Roy with 16 points. The Blazers unlike the previous two games didn't let Nowitzki kill them in the fourth.

In the fourth quarter where Nowitzki has killed the Blazers in the first two games he was contained. The Blazers took a 75-72 game and stretched it to 87-74 with six minutes to go. The Mavericks would fight back but due to clutch free throws by the Blazers they would hang on to win 97-92. The Blazers won the fourth quarter 22-20 over the Mavericks. The Mavericks missed five of 10 free throws in the fourth quarter while the Blazers made six of seven which proved to be the difference. For the quarter the Blazers shot 7-18(38.8%) but made two of four three pointers. For the Mavericks they shot 7-17(41.1%) from the field but made just one three pointer. Nowitzki who had averaged 16.0 PPG in the fourth quarter scored nine points on three for seven shooting. For the Blazers they hung on in the fourth quarter even though the game got scary towards the end. This was a huge win for the Blazers to win and the way they won in the fourth quarter.

For the Dallas Mavericks they finished the game with just two guys in double figures. The Mavericks shot well making 35-68(51.5%) from the field but 9-22(40.9%) from three point range. The Mavericks also only made 13-23(56.5%) from the free throw line. The Mavericks were led by Jason Terry who scored 29 points off the bench on 10-13 shooting including five of seven from three point range. Terry also dished out seven assists while doing his best to keep the Mavericks in the game. Nowitzki shot better than the first two but didn't get to the free throw line like he did in Dallas. Nowitzki scored 25 points on 10-21 shooting with nine rebounds. Nowitzki made a three pointer but after shooting 28-30(93.3%) from free throws first two games he shot just 4-7(57.1%) from the foul line in game three. Jason Kidd who played out of his mind in the first two games scored just eight points on three for nine shooting including two for eight from three point range. For the Mavericks other than Terry they just seemed a little off.

For the Blazers they held off the Mavericks to win at home in a must win. The Blazers were led by balance today which saw Wesley Matthews score a playoff career high 25 points. Matthews finished the game shooting 8-12 from the field including four of six from three pointers. LaMarcus Aldridge scored 20 points on 9-21 shooting while grabbing just four rebounds. Then Andre Miller had a solid well rounded game scoring 16 points on 6-13 shooting including a three pointer. Miller also dished out seven assists and was perfect in all three free throw attempts. Brandon Roy was a huge spark off the bench scoring 16 points on 6-10 shooting including a three pointer while dishing out four assists. Gerald Wallace was quiet offensively scoring just seven points on two for six shooting but had a huge three in the fourth quarter. Wallace also grabbed a team high 11 rebounds with two steals and a block shot. Marcus Camby continued to do the dirty work scoring six points and grabbing 10 rebounds with a block shot. The Blazers shot 36-75(48.0%) from the field but shot 8-14(57.1%) from three point range. The Blazers also shot 17-21(81.0%) from the free throw line while turning the ball over just nine times. The Blazers fed off the home crowd and will look to do the same in game four on Saturday night.

Overall, the Blazers did what they had to do and work still is far from over. The Blazers must continue this well rounded play where seven guys score at least six points and four scored in double figures. The Blazers like I figured would happen received nice play from their role players and the Mavericks didn't live at the free throw line. Typically the home team the role players step up and the road team won't live on the free throw line. For the Blazers winning game three was nice it really was but winning game four is just as important. The Blazers won a playoff game and in the playoffs momentum is huge. The Blazers ace up their sleeve in Brandon Roy produced big. If Roy can play like today the Blazers can make a deep run in the playoffs. Game four should be a fun game as both teams will play with intensity as they both will want that game. The Mavericks don't want to come home tied at two games while the Blazers don't want to leave Portland down three games to one. If Roy continues this type of play along with Matthews the Blazers will be in good shape.

Observations:

- The Blazers signed Wesley Matthews for games just like today. Matthews set the tone early scoring 16 of his 25 points in the first quarter hitting four three pointers. Matthews who played poorly in game one only scoring two points has bounced back scoring 38 points the last two games. Matthews now for the series is averaging 13.3 points per game on 15-26(57.7%) from the field while making 5-9(55.6%) from three point range.

For the year Matthews averaged 15.9 points per game while shooting 44.9% from the field and 40.7% from three point range making an average of 1.9 three pointers a game. Matthews isn't as bad as game one or as good as game three. Look for him to continue to play well as he is a good player. Matthews put the team on his back in the first half scoring 22 of the Blazers 54 points. As long as Matthews is playing that well the Blazers will be a tough team.

- The signs that LaMarcus Aldridge is becoming a good scorer is games like today. Aldridge scored 20 points and appeared to be a quiet 20 points. Signs that Aldridge isn't quite there yet is only four rebounds and being shutout in the first half. Aldridge scored 20 points on 9-21 shooting against the Mavericks in game three while pulling down just four rebounds.

For the series Aldridge is having a breakout series so far. Aldridge is averaging 23.7 points per game while grabbing 6.7 rebounds per game. Aldridge is shooting 30-59(50.9%) from the field. He has made 11-14(78.6%) from the foul line. I think once you accept who Aldridge is which is a power forward who plays small which is okay when you have a Gerald Wallace at small you'll be content with his production. Aldridge scores his points on outside shots but he does score though is the key. Aldridge needs to continue this type of scoring while increasing his rebounds for the Blazers to advance.

- Brandon Roy who had by far his worst season as a Blazer had a great bounce back game in game three. Roy scored 16 points off the bench on 6-10 shooting. Prior to that Roy had scored just two points on one for eight shooting in a combined 34 minutes of play. Today Roy played 23 minutes while showing everyone he isn't ready to call it quits just yet.

Roy who is a three time all-star was huge in the playoffs two years ago against Houston. In that series Roy averaged 26.7 points per game on 56-122(45.9%) shooting from the field including 42 points in game two win over Houston. Roy has struggled this year in fact his 16 points is the most he has scored since coincidently scoring 21 points on March 15th in a win at home against the Dallas Mavericks. The Blazers are built where Roy doesn't need to be an all-star to beat the Mavericks. The Blazers do need something from Roy as he can be their best scorer off the bench. If Roy continues to play well the Blazers are tough to beat.

- Nate McMillan I think handled the Roy situation today perfectly which ultimately won them the game. Instead of getting into a battle with his player who was upset over lack of playing time McMillan trusted Roy. Roy rewarded his trust with the big game. McMillan also made some adjustsments on Stojakovic and Kidd who combined scored 15 points and made just three three's a far cry from what happened down in Dallas. McMillan has never won a playoff series when the other team has won at least two games so if the Blazers were to win that would end that streak. To McMillan's credit history shows the Blazers should take this game as he is 3-1 all-time in game four when his team is down two games to one. In fact McMillan is 4-1 all-time in game four's in general. Blazers fans hope that streak continues for McMillan in game four as they look to even the series up.

In conclusion, the Blazers showed everyone why people thought they could win this series. The Blazers showed great depth today while the Mavericks had just two guys who played well. When the Mavericks aren't shooting over 30 free throws a game they have problems scoring having scored just 40 points in the second half. The Blazers know that game four will be a war with both teams. The Blazers hope the play of Aldridge and Miller can continue like it has the rest of the series. The Blazers are hoping Roy and Matthews can play games like today instead of games like game one. The Mavericks will be hoping that Nowitzki can have a game where he shoots his season average of 52% and finally go off for over 40 points. This should be a fun series with the Blazers winning the game they had to win. The Blazers now set themselves up nicely to make this a series again in game four. While the Mavericks are hoping to get their split and really put the Blazers playoff hopes on life support. The Blazers responded nicely in game three now it's on to game four to see if they can even the series back up.

Nowitzki leads Mavs to 2-0 series lead with 101-89 win over Blazers

By Kshell

For the second straight game Dirk Nowitzki proved to be too much for the Portland Trail Blazers as they now trail the Dallas Mavericks(lead series 2-0) two games to none. The Blazers saw Nowitzki take over the fourth quarter once again as he scored 14 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter after scoring 18 points in game one in the fourth. The Mavericks once again had great games from role players as their bench outscored the Blazers bench 39-11 including 21 from Peja Stojakovic. The Mavericks were also led by Jason Kidd who scored 18 points including hitting three three pointers. The Blazers wasted another great performance from LaMarcus Aldridge who scored 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Now the Blazers must fly home knowing they have to win four of the next five games to keep their season alive. The Blazers who haven't won a playoff series in 11 years are off to a bad start to end that streak. For the Mavericks they know the series isn't over yet but they have to feel good about taking care of business at home.

The Blazers came out in the first quarter on the road determine to earn that split. The Blazers were led by Gerald Wallace and LaMarcus Aldridge in the first quarter. The Blazers had a 24-22 lead over the Mavericks led by Wallace who scored 11 points on three for five shooting including a three pointer with three assists. While Aldridge scored eight points on four for six shooting with four rebounds and a block. The Blazers shot 9-18(50.0%) from the field and made two of three three pointers. The Mavericks were led by Peja Stojakovic who scored six points hitting two three pointers. Nowitzki like last game struggled early scoring just four points on one for six shooting. Game one hero Jason Kidd struggled early scoring just three points on one for three shooting. The Mavericks shot 8-19(42.1%) from the field and made three for five from three point range. This quarter summed up the game in a nutshell. The Blazers were led by their starters while the Mavericks were led by balance.

The second quarter featured tons of scoring for both teams as they each scored 28 points to go into halftime with the Blazers leading 52-50. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who once again scored eight points in the quarter to give him 16 points on 7-11 shooting. The Mavericks were led by Nowtizki who scored 10 points to give him 14 points on 3-10 shooting but was a perfect eight for eight at the foul line. The Blazers in the quarter shot 11-21(52.3%) from the field and two for four from the three point line. The Blazers were just four for seven on free throws. For the half the Blazers shot 20-39(51.2%) from the field and 4-7(57.1%) from three point range. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who scored 16 points, Wallace who scored 11 points on three for seven shooting. Nicolas Batum scored seven points in the second to give him 10 points on four for five shooting including two three pointers. Wesley Matthews came up big for the Blazers scoring nine points on four for five shooting including a three pointer. The Blazers were doing a good job keeping pace with the Mavericks.

For the Mavericks they shot 10-21(47.6%) from the field but just one for six from three point range. The Mavericks did shoot seven for nine on free throws. For the half the Mavericks shot 18-40(45.0%) from the field and 4-11(36.4%) from three point range. The Mavericks were 10-13(76.9%) from the free throw line. The Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who scored 14 points, then Stojakovic who scored 10 points on four for six shooting including two three pointers. The Mavericks also saw Kidd score nine points on three for six shooting with two three pointers and Jason Terry score eight points on four for nine shooting. The Mavericks matched the Blazers point for point in the second quarter and were once again in for a battle.

The third quarter continued to be a battle but the Mavericks finally took the lead outscoring the Blazers barely 23-20 to take a 73-72 lead heading into the fourth quarter. For the Blazers they were led by Wallace who scored six points to give him 17 on the game and Aldridge who scored five points to give him 21 points on the game. The Blazers who 8-17(47.1%) from the field and hit one of three three pointers. While the Mavericks shot 10-19(52.6%) from the field and hit two of five three pointers. The Mavericks were led by Kidd in the quarter who scored nine points to give him 18 points on 7-11 shooting including three three pointers and had six assists. Stojakovic scored five points in the quarter including a three pointer to give him 15 points. The Mavericks were heading into the fourth quarter with a slim one point lead. Then in the fourth Nowitzki like last game would take over.

In the fourth quarter the Mavericks depth prevailed over the Blazers. The Mavericks appeared to have fresher legs. It also helps to have a future hall of famer in Nowitzki. The Mavericks got a nice spark from J.J.Barea who scored all six of his points in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki in the fourth quarter scored 14 points on four for seven shooting including six of eight from free throw range. Stojakovic added six points including two three pointers. The Blazers offense struggled scoring just 17 points including just three points from Aldridge who took just two shots the whole fourth quarter. The Mavericks had outscored the Blazers 28-17 in the fourth while shooting 9-17(52.9%) from the field and 8-10(80.0%) from the foul line. While the Blazers shot just 4-10(40.0%) from the field and 7-10(70.0%) from the foul line. When it was all said and done the Mavericks had defeated the Blazers 101-89 to take a two games to zero lead heading back to Portland.

For the Blazers this has to be a disappointment to come to Dallas and come home with no wins. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who scored 24 points on 9-18(50.0%) shooting from the field with 10 rebounds and three block shots. The Blazers had a nice bounce back game from Wallace who scored 18 points on 6-11 shooting with seven rebounds and six assists. Once again Andre Miller had a nice game scoring 18 points on 5-10 shooting with a perfect two for two from three point range. Miller was also six for seven from the foul line while dishing out eight assists and grabbing six rebounds. Matthews also had a nice bounce back game scoring 13 points on 6-11 shooting including a three pointer. Then off the bench Batum scored 10 points on four for seven shooting including two three pointers. The Blazers didn't play bad shooting 32-66(48.5%) from the field, 7-14(50.0%) from three point range but were just 18-27(66.7%) from the foul line. The Blazers turned the ball over 12 times as well. The Blazers have to come home now and sweep at home.

For the Mavericks they were once again led by Nowitzki. Nowitzki put the team on his back in the fourth quarter and finished with a game high 33 points on 9-22 shooting but was 15-17 from the foul line. The Mavericks once again had a great game from Kidd who scored 18 points on 7-11 shooting and knocked down three of six from three point range. Kidd has now made 9-16 from three point range this series while averaging 21.0 points per game. Kidd also dished out eight assists while grabbing four rebounds. Then the Mavericks bench came through with Stojakovic scoring 21 points on 8-13 shooting including 5-10 from three point range. Terry added 10 points on 5-12 shooting with two steals. The Mavericks for the game shot 37-76(48.7%) from the field, 8-19(42.1%) from three point range and 19-26(73.1%) from the foul line. The Mavericks with Nowitzki and good play from key veterans find themselves up 2-0 in the series. For the Mavericks who have been eliminated in the first round three of the last four years they are hoping to put the pressure on the Blazers by winning a game in Portland.

Overall, the Blazers are in a tough spot. After game one there was so much hope as the Blazers looked like the better team with that performance by Kidd looking like a fluke. Instead the Mavericks appear to be the stronger team with the best player on the court(Nowitzki) and a deeper roster than the Blazers. The Blazers need their bench to produce because right now it appears they have just six guys who can play which isn't going to work when you don't have a top 10 player in the NBA on your roster. The Mavericks have a closer in Nowitzki who is a top 10 player in the NBA while the Blazers are hoping Aldridge can be that guy. The Mavericks will enjoy a 2-0 series lead but know this series if far from over. The Blazers better stop that three point shot soon or they'll be going on vacation pretty soon. For all the hope of this finally being the year the Blazers get out of the first round they find themselves two games away from another long offseason.

Observations:

- LaMarcus Aldridge is the closest player to being a star on the Blazers roster. Which is why I was puzzled to see him have just two field goal attempts in the fourth quarter. Aldridge needs to be more agressive and his teammates need to do a better job of giving him the ball. Look no further than their opponent the Dallas Mavericks who feature Nowitzki in the fourth quarter.

Aldridge is having a nice breakout playoffs so far scoring 24 points with 10 rebounds in game two. Aldridge for the series is averaging 25.5 points per game, eight rebounds, two blocks per game while shooting 21-38(55.3%) from the field. Aldridge has came to play this series yet needs to do more. He has only 12 free throw attempts which is pretty low for a big man. Aldridge needs his teammates to help him out or his great playoffs will end shortly.

- Dirk Nowitzki so far has carried the Mavericks in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki hasn't shot well the first three quarters of either game but in the fourth has been huge. Nowitzki while some Blazers fans will whine and cry has been good at getting to the foul line. He has exploited the mismatches every time a smaller guy is guarding him. For the series Nowitzki is averaging 30.5 PPG and 8.5 RPG. He is shooting just 16-42(38.1%) from the field but has made a remarkable 28-30(93.3%) from the free throw line.

In the fourth quarters Nowitzki is averaing 16.0 PPG on 6-11(55.5%) shooting from the field and an amazing 19-21(90.4%) from the free throw line in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki has been a monster for the Mavericks in the fourth quarter and has done a great job getting to the free throw line. Now when the series shifts to Portland I doubt Nowitzki shoots 21 free throws in the fourth quarter in both games. The scary thing is Nowitzki is averaging 30.5 PPG while making just one three pointer and shooting under 40.0%. What happens when Nowitzki finally shoots his normal 51.7% from the field while making a three pointer a game? If that happens this series could be ending pretty quickly.

- The resurgence of Jason Kidd has been pretty fascinating to see so far. Kidd who had a horrible regular season and scored just 48 points in last years playoffs in six games has gone off. So far Kidd has scored 42 points this series. Kidd is averaging 21.0 PPG, 6.0 APG, 4.5 RPG while shooting 16-25(64.0%) from the field and 9-16(56.3%) from three point range. If Kidd keeps playing at this level safe to say the series is over.

Kidd has scored 42 points in two games which is his best scoring two game stretch since January 22nd when he scored 18 points and then January 24th when he scored 26 points. The year was 2007 and he still played for the New Jersey Nets. That is how rare this run for Kidd has been. Kidd is playing out of his mind right now which has been pretty crazy to watch. I'm sure Blazers fans have to be thinking this is 2011 right not 2004? Either way if Kidd keeps hitting three's they'll be a tough team.

- For the Blazers head coach Nate McMillan his postseason record falls to 12-18(.400) in the playoffs. McMillan like his Blazers roster hasn't tasted much postseason success. In fact since 1993 the Blazers have advanced past the first round just twice. Only Marcus Camby has won a playoff series on this roster. The Blazers showing why they can't win these games because they are freezing up in the fourth quarters having been outscored 56-41 in the last two games in the fourth quarter.

Now some will place that blame squarely on McMillan's shoulders. First game he played Brandon Roy too many minutes while this game he played basically just six guys. Hard to win with just six guys when you don't have a superstar. For McMillan he has to figure out this rotation quickly or the Blazers will lose yet again in the playoffs. For McMillan he is 1-4 in playoff series heading into this series.

In conclusion, the Blazers need to step up at home. The Blazers need their role players to hit some big shots at home. The Blazers haven't won their first home playoff game in a series since 2000 against the Utah Jazz. Hopefully that streak comes to an end or they'll be down 3-0 which no NBA team has ever came back from. The Blazers are in danger of being that team whose window has closed. A loss this series would make that three years in a row losing in the first round and dating back to 1993 9 out of 11. The Blazers played well in the first seven quarters of this series but in the last quarter of game two the Mavericks pulled ahead. Now the series shifts to Portland. Hopefully when the Mavericks fly back to Dallas after game four the Blazers will be joining that flight. The Blazers also hope the series will be tied by then. The Blazers must figure something out quickly or their season will be ending in sudden disappointment like the past two seasons.

Kidd hits career high six three pointers as Mavs win game one over Blazers 89-81

By Kshell

The Dallas Mavericks(57-25) defeated the Portland Trail Blazers(48-34) in game one of the 2011 NBA playoffs first round behind a career high six three pointers by Jason Kidd. The Mavericks also saw perrenial all-star Dirk Nowitzki score 18 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter as the Mavericks rallied from six points down to take game one. The Blazers overcame a halftime deficit of 10 points due to LaMarcus Aldridge scoring 27 points along with Andre Miller scoring 18 points. For the Blazers looking to win their first playoff series since 2000 they let a game slip away against a team who at times they looked better than. The Mavericks who have had 11 straight seasons over 50 wins or more haven't played well in the playoffs. Lately the Mavericks since blowing a 2-0 lead in the 2006 finals have had a tough time getting past the first round losing three of the last four years in the first round. The Mavericks survived game one at home but like last year are hoping to avoid losing game two at home.

In the first quarter it was the LaMarcus Aldridge show for the Blazers. Aldridge in the first quarter led all scorers with 11 points on five for six shooting giving the Blazers a 22-21 lead after one. Marcus Camby was big for the Blazers scoring two points but pulling down six rebounds while dishing out three assists and blocking a shot. The Blazers shot well 9-16(56.2%) from the field in the first quarter as well. For the Mavericks to keep in it they were led by veteran point guard Jason Kidd who scored eight points on three for five shooting including two three's. Nowitzki scored six points on three for seven shooting. The Mavericks in the first quarter shot 9-20(45.0%) while making three for seven(42.9%) from three point range. The Mavericks also outrebounded the Blazers 11-8 in the first quarter. The Blazers had the early lead but the Mavericks would make the first big run of the game in the second quarter.

In the second quarter the Mavericks defense tighten up on the Blazers. The Mavericks outscored the Blazers 26-15 as the Mavericks shot 9-17(52.9%) from the field and were perfect on all three three point attempts. The Mavericks also made five of six free throws. The defense held the Blazers to 6-16(37.5%) shooting from the field. The Blazers for the half were just one for six from three point range while the Mavericks were a ridiculous 6-10(60.0%). The Blazers found themselves trailing 47-37 at halftime which wasn't the fault of Aldridge who led all scorers with 13 points on 6-10 shooting but had just one rebound. The Blazers also were led by Andre Miller scoring 12 points on four for six shooting while knocking down four of five free throws. The Blazers had a great boost from Marcus Camby scoring four points but grabbed nine rebounds with two blocks. The Mavericks were led by Kidd who scored 11 points on four for six shooting and hit three three's while dishing out three assists and grabbing three rebounds. Nowitzki scored eight points on 4-11 shooting with five rebounds. Peja Stojakovic drilled two three pointers in the second to score six points as it appeared the Mavericks were going to turn this game into a blowout. The Blazers had different plans in the third quarter.

In the third quarter Aldridge put the Blazers on his back with the scoring and Camby dominated defensively. The Blazers outscored the Mavericks 20-14 in the third quarter to pull within 61-57. The Blazers got a nice boost from Gerald Wallace who was held scoreless in the first half scored six points in the quarter. Aldridge scored eight points in the quarter giving him 21 points on 9-16 shooting to that point in the game. Camby also grabbed eight rebounds that quarter. The Blazers shot 9-21(42.9%) from the field while outrebounding the Mavericks 16-8. The Mavericks shot just 5-19(26.3%)from the field and had just eight rebounds. The Mavericks only made two of six three pointers as well. The Blazers had stopped Nowitzki who scored just two points on one for five shooting in the fourth quarter. It had appeared the Blazers were going to win this game as Nowitzki was struggling scoring just 10 points on 5-16 shooting with six turnovers after three quarters. Nowitzki showed why he is a perrenial all-star as he rose to the occasion.

In the fourth quarter you saw Nowitzki put the team on his back and take it to the foul line the whole quarter. The Mavericks found themselves trailing 72-66 with over six minutes to go in the game. That is when Nowitzki took over including hitting a three pointer to give the Mavericks the lead at 75-74. Nowitzki in the fourt quarter scored 18 points and was perfect 13-13 at the foul line. Then with Mavericks up 82-78 Kidd hit the dagger of a three pointer to put the Mavericks up seven and most importantly wrapped up game one. When it was all said and done the Mavericks outscored the Blazers 23-9 to finish the game. The Mavericks made 18-19(94.7%) from the foul line in the fourth quarter while the Blazers attempted just two free throw's despite outscoring the Mavericks 46-18 in the paint. This was a big win for the Mavericks and a good building experience game for the Blazers who saw several key players including Brandon Roy struggle today.

The Blazers didn't play a bad game at all shooting 35-76(46.1%) from the field but struggled to knock down that outside shot hitting just 2-16(12.5%) from three point range. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who threw down several alley-oops on the game scoring 27 points on 12-20(60.0%) from the field while grabbing six rebounds. Miller scored 18 points on 7-13 shooting while dishing out six assists and grabbing four rebounds. Nicolas Batum scored 14 points on 6-14 shooting but made just one of seven three point attempts. Camby finished with four points while pulling down 18 rebounds with five assists and two blocks. The Blazers also had three key players struggle for them including former All-Star Brandon Roy who scored just two points on one for seven shooting. Another Blazer who struggled was Wesley Matthews who scored just two points with three turnovers. Then Gerald Wallace who was shutout in the first half scored just eight points on 4-13(30.7%) shooting from the field while grabbing just five rebounds. The Blazers played pretty well considering none of their role players who are all capable of having big nights played so poorly.

For the Mavericks they can breathe a little better knowing they won game one at home. For a team who has struggled so much in the playoffs to find themselves trailing in game one by six points in the fourth quarter at home had to feel uneasy. The Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who didn't shoot well but still found a way to score 28 points while pulling down 10 rebounds. Kidd scored 24 points on 9-14(64.2%) from the field and made 6-10(60.0%) from three point range. Kidd also had five rebounds and four assists. The only other Maverick to do anything was Jason Terry who scored 10 points on two for five shooting. The Mavericks won the game with the three point shot making 10-19(52.6%) and at the foul line making 25-29(86.2%). For the Mavericks this win was big but it was more of a sigh of relief if anything. Now the Mavericks look to go up 2-0 in the series on tuesday.

Overall, the Blazers won't be discouraged by this performance. If anything this game proves to the Blazers they can play with the Mavericks. The Blazers went toe to toe with the Mavericks watching them shoot 19-2 in free throws in the fourth quarter. The Blazers saw Jason Kidd hit a career high six three pointers while their former all-star Brandon Roy struggled to put the ball in the hoop. At the end of the day the Mavericks won game one and have a one game to none lead. For the Blazers they are just looking for a split then come home to Rose Garden with the series 1-1. The Blazers have some work to do but there was some positives today mainly the play of Aldridge who is really becoming a star in this league. Now the Blazers don't have time for moral victories they must get that game two in Dallas to have a realistic chance in this series. Should be fun to see how game two turns out. Either way one team will feel great about themselves while the losing team will feel like it's the end of the world for them.

Observations:

- Aldridge is starting to show why he is such a great offensive player. Aldridge still is inconsistent as a rebounder having just two rebounds in the game after three quarters. On offense he was pretty incredible with those dunks making 12-20(60.0%) from the field. Aldridge is a go to guy in this league and in the past has had solid playoffs. Now Aldridge needs to get a few calls as he shot just four free throws despite his 20 field goal attempts.

I felt like Aldridge was letting the lack of calls and the Mavericks frustrate him in the second quarter. Aldridge scored just two points that quarter had one rebound and shot one for four. I also felt Aldridge showed maturity to quickly bounce back in the third quarter and score eight points. The Blazers have had to completely change their franchise with Roy and Greg Oden going down to injuries. Aldridge has helped with that transition some. People forget Aldridge was the number two pick in the same draft that Roy was the seventh pick in the draft. The Aldridge-Nowitzki matchup this playoffs has to be one of the better matchups in the first round.

- Now the worst topic I didn't want to talk about but I feel I have to. Brandon Roy looks injured and obviously isn't anywhere close to his old self. I question why Nate McMillan went with him down the stretch when Roy was playing so ineffective. Roy in 26 minutes scored just two points on one for seven shooting. Even worst Roy had the worst +/- on the team at negative 10 points. It is sad to see Roy be so injured especially when you look at this Blazers roster. If they just had the Roy of two years ago the Blazers could be the second or third best team in the Western Conference and very much a championship contender. Then when you throw in Oden this will be one of those what if's Blazers fans will always think about.

- Dirk Nowitzki showed why he lives on the All-NBA teams today. In a game where he didn't shoot well 7-20(35.0%) he still found a way to score 28 points. Nowitzki scored 18 points in the fourth quarter when he nailed all 13 free throws he attempted in the fourth. Now some may say he got superstar calls while others say he was attacking the hoop. There is a reason why superstars get calls because they are good at what they do. They know how to get to the foul line which sadly is a skill.

Nowitzki also grabbed 10 rebounds and had the best +/- out of anyone as he was a plus 17. For those who don't know that means the Mavericks outscored the Blazers by 17 points when he was on the court for 39 minutes. Nowitzki who is playing in his 11th straight playoffs is hoping this year is different that the Mavericks can finally win a championship.

- Remember when Gary Payton once said you should call Jason Kidd "Ason Kidd" because he has no "J". Well those days are long over now. Believe it or not Kidd is third all-time in NBA history in three pointers made. Kidd who is a career 34.8% three point shooter made a career high six three pointers today making 60.0% of his three pointers.

Kidd carried the Mavericks when Nowitzki was slow to get going. Then Kidd nailed the dagger to put the game away. Kidd who had his worst season of his career averaging just 7.9 PPG while 36.1% from the field and 34.0% from three point range stepped up today. Kidd scored 24 points which is the most he has scored since he scored points last season on April 3rd against hijack city(Oklahoma City). To say Kidd played huge today would be a huge understatement. Kidd showed at least for today that he still has some game left.

- This loss drops Nate McMillan's playoff record to 12-17(.413) for his career. In fact McMillan has won just one playoff series in his coaching career now. McMillan had some puzzling moves in the fourth quarter which included not playing Camby who was dominating on defense especially when Nowitzki was getting so many free throw attempts. Another questionable move was playing Roy so many minutes especially playing him so many at point guard.

McMillan I think is a good coach but I also think he can't take a team very far. He is great at getting teams to overachieve but I'm not sure if he can take a team deep into the playoffs which ultimately is the goal. I like Mr. Sonic and hope he can produce a playoff series win this year. The Blazers right now have the longest active playoff losing streak losing six series in a row dating back to my eighth grade year in 2000. Is McMillan the guy to break that streak? Well that is yet to be seen to date.

In conclusion, the Blazers were playing with house money in game one. Nobody expects a road team to get a sweep and all you can hope for is a split. Now game two will be different the Blazers don't want to come home down 2-0 to an experience Dallas Mavericks team. The Mavericks showed their veteran leadership in today's playoff win. Despite not winning a championship Nowitzki and Kidd have played in NBA finals and know how to win in the playoffs. The Blazers are hoping to get to that level where they know how to win in the playoffs. With some better play from their role players the Blazers can get the split. One would think Kidd won't shoot 60.0% from three point range the rest of the series. Now it comes down to game two to see where this series goes from here. If Aldridge has anything to say about it the Blazers will be coming home with the split. Just don't forget the Mavericks may have had plenty of failures in the postseason but they have had some success as well. The Mavericks take game one now we'll find out what this resilient Blazers team is made of once again. Knowing the Blazers they'll fight back and make game two a great war. Should be interesting to see game two I can't wait.