INDIANAPOLIS — The Portland Trail Blazers put on a dominant offensive display Wednesday evening, ultimately weathering a furious fourth-quarter comeback attempt from the Indiana Pacers to secure a 127-119 victory at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The win marked Portland's third triumph in their last four contests, further solidifying their position as the 10th seed in the Western Conference playoff picture during what promises to be an unusually competitive postseason race.
Deni Avdija served as the primary catalyst for the Blazers' success, particularly in the opening half when he erupted for 23 of his game-high 32 points. The versatile forward's shooting efficiency carried over into the boards, where he added 11 rebounds to his impressive line. However, it was the emergence of Donovan Clingan that proved equally pivotal. The young big man registered a career-best 28 points while simultaneously securing 13 boards, showcasing his expanding offensive repertoire by draining 3 of 5 attempts from three-point range and contributing two defensive blocks.
Portland's offensive firepower was on full display from tip-off, as the Blazers established early control and never surrendered the lead throughout the contest. The team's first-half output was particularly noteworthy—they matched their season-high scoring mark by putting up 79 points in the opening 24 minutes, creating a seemingly insurmountable 79-62 halftime cushion.
Indiana's injury-depleted roster battled valiantly but lacked the necessary offensive punch to compete evenly. Ivica Zubac led the Pacers' scoring efforts with 18 points, while Jalen Slawson contributed 17 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks in a losing effort. The absence of four-time All-Star Pascal Siakam—sidelined for his sixth consecutive game with a right knee sprain—remained a significant factor. During his pregame availability, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said he didn't have a timetable for Siakam's return but remained hopeful Siakam would be back this season despite Indiana have the league's worst record at 15-54.
Portland appeared destined for a comfortable victory when they extended their advantage to 115-98 with just 7:17 remaining in the fourth quarter. The Pacers, however, mounted an unexpected rally that brought the game within striking distance. Indiana clawed back to within three points at 120-117 with 1:52 on the clock, demonstrating the competitive character that has defined their organization historically, even during this historically difficult stretch.
The Pacers' momentum proved short-lived, however. Critical offensive breakdowns in the final 90 seconds—including a missed layup and an errant three-pointer—proved fatal to their comeback bid. Jrue Holiday's clutch three-pointer and two free throws from Avdija sealed the outcome and extended Indiana's franchise record-worst losing streak to 15 games, dating back to February 11.
The Trail Blazers will continue their road journey Friday night in Minnesota, while the Pacers will attempt to snap their historically long skid Saturday against San Antonio.