Game 46: Hornets 98, Blazers 97

No Brandon, no problem right? Wrong.

Last night was a shining example of why we need Brandon Roy, especially down the stretch. The Blazers fought hard the whole game, guys were stepping their games up until the last few minutes when no one could make a field goal. Tired legs and too many minutes for veterans, led to a disappointing finish in the Rose Garden as New Orleans won 98 to 97.

Besides the first few minutes and the last few minutes, this was a pretty entertaining game. Marcus Thornton showed us what all the fuss was about, Chris Paul was his usual amazing self, and the Blazers fought their way back into a position to win. Then they let it slip away, again.

The game got pretty physical at times, Rudy was getting hit in the face repeatedly and a lot of calls both ways were making people upset, particularly David West. We should have capitalized on the Thornton flagrant foul on Rudy, but instead Chris Paul got mad and made sure New Orleans won this game.

Regarding the fouls on Rudy, why is Hornet fan so quick to call it a flop? I'm pretty sure if someone threw an elbow at me, I might be inclined to try to soften the blow by bouncing off it. The Thornton foul was so obviously intentional, but it seemed to incite a stereotypical "all Euro's flop" rant.

I don't see it, and I hate flopping more than anything. Plus, even if Rudy is selling it a little, it's not his fault the league is now built this way. So much of the game has become about acting in the NBA, so if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

Anyway, the Blazers will need to bounce back tomorrow night against division rival Utah. It is imperative Portland take care of business at home, especially with a Texas road trip looming. It is very possible the Blazers could go 0-4 this week and lose their position in the West. Now is the time to step up and take care of business. I think they can, just a matter of execution.

Box Score

Horrible start, no defense, Hornets had most of their points in the paint. LaMarcus was non-existent at times offensively. He needs to create more opportunities for himself. Allowing NO to go on a 10-1 run to win the game. Losing a home game, again. FAN VOTE: The Blazers are willing to give it to Bayless with five seconds left but no PT with five minutes left? What's up with that?	Juwan Howard was huge throughout, ties a season high with 16 points. Rudy tied a season high 7 rebounds, also scored 12 points on 4 of 7 shooting. Spread the ball around well, 28 total assists to NO's 20. FAN VOTE: Batum's return and impressive play in limited minutes.