NBA: The Gambler @ Phoenix

Opponent: Phoenix
Line: +9.0

Gambler's Record: 19-19-1

"You don't have the magic in you, and you never did."
-GOB, Arrested Development

Since I compared the Trailblazers to a doomed swordfishing boat eight games ago, they have gone 3-5. In that stretch, we saw glimmers of hope in the road win at Dallas, the home rout of the Bobcats, and the gutty victory over the Spurs. However, there have also been embarrassing, soul-crushing losses to the Rockets, Jazz, Lakers, and Thunder. All of those teams are better than Portland's current, injury depleted, roster, and it showed in each of those losses.

Which brings me to GOB and the current state of the Blazers.

Yes, there are some great pieces on this Blazers roster. When we're healthy, we are deep and talented and have a chemistry that bonds it all together.

But, without Brandon Roy, the magic just isn't there.

While there may be flashes of stability and success when role-players step up, there is only one man that can unite this team and push them over the top and onto the same level as the league's elite. Unfortunately, that man has been wearing a suit for the last few games and his return date is uncertain.

We knew when the injuries started to mount that the Blazers were in trouble but, as fans, we deluded ourselves into thinking that the team would hold on, that they would weather the storm.

Over the last eight games, reality has come crashing in and, with it, those dreams have been crushed, as we collectively realize that the burden is just too great.

This is not their year.

The Blazers will get blown out tonight—a horrible loss that will lead us into the All-Star break with a spate of questions and a dearth of answers.

Despite the injuries, Portland has managed to keep us entertained; but when it comes time to pull a rabbit out of the hat, they're going to come up empty.

Take the Suns.