Game Preview: Trail Blazers vs. Raptors
The Portland Trail Blazers (23-22, ninth in the Western Conference) are set to host the Toronto Raptors (27-19, fourth in the Eastern Conference) on Friday at 10 p.m. EST in Portland, Oregon. Sports betting platforms list the Raptors as favorites with a spread of -4.5, and the total points line is set at 223.5.
Current Form and Statistics
Currently riding a four-game winning streak, the Trail Blazers have been strong at home this season, posting a 13-10 record. Their success on the boards has been impressive, with an average of 45.3 rebounds per game, ranking them eighth in the NBA, led by Donovan Clingan‘s notable contribution of 10.8 rebounds per game.
In contrast, the Raptors hold a solid 14-9 record on the road. They outscore opponents by an average of 1.8 points per game, netting 114.3 points. However, when it comes to shooting efficiency, the Raptors’ opponents have managed to shoot at an efficiency rate of 46.4%, which is merely 1.3% higher than the Raptors’ allowed field goal percentage. The Trail Blazers, meanwhile, have demonstrated offensive prowess, shooting 45.1% from the field but allowing a higher average of 118.0 points from rivals.
Previous Encounter
This upcoming game marks the second meeting of the season between these teams. In their first encounter on December 3, the Raptors edged out the Trail Blazers with a narrow 121-118 victory, with Scottie Barnes leading Toronto with 28 points and Deni Avdija notching 25 points for Portland.
Player Performances
On the individual front, Avdija has been stellar for the Trail Blazers, averaging 26 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.9 assists, while teammate Shaedon Sharpe has been on fire, putting up 22.0 points during the last ten games. For the Raptors, Brandon Ingram is maintaining an average of 21.8 points, with Scottie Barnes contributing 20.2 points over the same ten-game stretch.
Recent Performances
When looking at recent performances, the Trail Blazers have excelled, finishing their last ten games with an 8-2 record—scoring an average of 117.0 points and maintaining 45.0 rebounds while shooting 46.9% from the field. Conversely, Toronto has a 6-4 record in their last ten games, netting 114.2 points and securing 41.7 rebounds while shooting at 46.5%.
Injury Report
In terms of injuries, the Trail Blazers will be without Scoot Henderson (hamstring), Matisse Thybulle (thumb), Blake Wesley (foot), Kris Murray (back), and Deni Avdija is listed as day-to-day due to back issues. Additionally, they will be missing Damian Lillard, who is out for the season due to an Achilles injury. The Raptors are also dealing with injury concerns, as Jakob Poeltl is out with a back issue, while Collin Murray-Boyles (thumb) and RJ Barrett (ankle) are both classified as day-to-day. Ja’Kobe Walter will also miss the game due to a hip injury.
