Blazers Aim for Playoff Push Against Jokic-Less Nuggets

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Trail Blazers will host the Denver Nuggets on Friday at 10 p.m. ET, aiming to rally further in their quest for a playoff spot. The Blazers secured a crucial 115-99 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, boosting their hopes as they sit two games behind the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference.

“It’s a big moment for us,” said Blazers coach Chauncey Billups. “Every game counts, especially against high-quality teams like Denver. We need to keep the momentum going.” The Blazers’ recent success has put them back in the conversation for postseason play, but they must continue winning to capitalize on their opportunity.

The Nuggets, currently 44-26, are facing their own challenges, including a prominent absence: star center Nikola Jokic will not play due to an ankle injury. Jamal Murray is listed as questionable, casting more uncertainty on Denver’s lineup.

Despite these setbacks, the Nuggets still pose a formidable challenge. Denver is in a tight race for playoff seeding, with the potential to secure as high as the second seed or drop to fifth place depending on their performance in upcoming games. Coach Mike Malone commented on the situation, emphasizing the importance of adaptation following injuries.

“If we don’t have Nikola, then it’s a different game,” Malone said. “But we have to focus on what we can control and step up as a team.” The Nuggets are coming off a disappointing 120-108 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, a game marked by poor performance and early mistakes.

The Trail Blazers, who hold a 31-39 record, are also struggling with their injury troubles. Jerami Grant is doubtful with knee tendinitis, and several key players, including Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III, are out. The team’s depth will be tested as they look to maintain their winning trajectory against a depleted Nuggets roster.

Statistically, the Blazers have struggled this season, ranked 29th in turnovers per possession. This weakness could open opportunities for the Nuggets to exploit, especially if Russell Westbrook can capitalize on defensive lapses. Westbrook is averaging 1.4 steals per game this season, emphasizing the need for the Blazers to protect the ball effectively.

Predictive analytics from Dimers project a close matchup, giving the Nuggets a 57% chance of victory while the Blazers stand at 43%. The forecast shows a predicted final score of Nuggets 114, Blazers 112, underscoring the competitive nature of Friday’s encounter.

“There’s a lot at stake for both teams, and each possession will matter,” said Blazers guard Anfernee Simons. “We have to come out aggressive and take advantage of every opportunity.”

Fans can catch the action on Rip City Radio and various local cable networks, while streaming options are available for wider audiences. The result of this game could significantly impact both teams’ playoff aspirations as they approach the final weeks of the regular season.