GAME 74: POR (34-39) @ DAL (43-31) | 131-134 loss

[omahen]

Mavs lost because defense in the first three quarters was just criminal. PnR defense and transition defense were non existing. Come on, one screen and Lillard is completely open. And we were lucky that Nurkic looks out of game shape. Center has to be higher and help on the screen, otherwise it is an automatic basket every single time. Defense on Melo was just pathetic - THROW A BIGGER BODY AT HIM!!! Fourth quarter was a combination of unreasonably quick foul calls and some Lillard brilliance. But the way refs were protecting him, it was impossible to stop him.

[dirkfansince1998]

Biggest takeway. All of Jacksons minutes should go to MKG. Melo abused DFS and Jackson. MKG is the best defender against big and strong forwards.

[MrGoat]

It's pretty clear that adding another defender is the top priority for us in the offseason. I was right that the 240 over under sounded low. Our defense looked like complete trash in the last game too until Quin Snyder started actively trying to throw that game away. Can't be mad about that one shot Lillard hit though, that was just nuts

Silver lining: Suck it Spurms. They are eliminated if two of Portland, Phoenix, or Memphis win on Thursday, and all of them are playing against teams with nothing left to play for

[chaparral]

Biggest takeaway. All of Jacksons minutes should go to MKG. Melo abused DFS and Jackson. MKG is the best defender against big and strong forwards.

I would agree with this statement.  Hopefully MKG gets all of Jackson's minutes in the playoffs.

[HoosierDaddyKid]

Portland didn't get nothing from CJ or Nurkic. All Dame with a sprinkle of Melo.

[SwisherPrice]

Can't beat a great FT shooting team like the Blazers. Sure, both teams had lots of free throws but if it's a FT shooting contest, you know Lillard is not going to miss so it's guaranteed points for them.