Game 55: Portland Trail Blazers 108, Phoenix Suns 101

Well that game was certainly unexpected. Based on the way Portland played last night against Oklahoma City, there is no way they could hang with the Suns in Phoenix right? Wrong. Apparently the lethargic, lack of energy effort in Portland was somewhat of an aberration. The Blazers took a page out of the Suns playbook by hitting them hard early, making every shot they took, and finishing off a big time game in Phoenix, 108 to 101.

I don't think anyone would have faulted Portland had they lost this game. 9 losses in a row in Phoenix, injuries to key players, and mentally limping into the All-Star break. Honestly, after scoring 77 points against the Thunder, I thought there was absolutely no possible way the Blazers win. But as usual, when everyone thinks they can't win, the Blazers just seem to step up.

Tonight started unlike most games this season. Portland aggressively attacked the basket on offense and most importantly all of our guards were hitting their shots. As much as we talk about different aspects of how a game unfolds, every problem can be remedied with good shooting.

Portland got started early and often, even matching last night's 77 point output midway through the third quarter. The Blazers shot 58 percent from the floor and Jerryd Bayless was the only player with a noticeably bad shooting night.

The absolute biggest turnaround from a personnel standpoint, had to be the play of Steve Blake. From absolutely terrible last night to "best game ever" with 20 points and 12 assists. I can't really explain it, but for some reason Blake was just making everything in this game. He managed to outplay Steve Nash in almost every aspect, more points and assists, less turnovers. It was nothing short of tremendous and necessary.

Andre Miller and Juwan Howard were also big contributors in this win. Both guys seemed to show that veterain savvy and take some of the young guys to task. Juwan Howard's post up bucket over the other Lopez brother was beautiful. Dante Cunngingham has also proven to be quite the player and a versatile addition to the team. He blocked shots, hit jumpers, ran the floor, and even threw down a sick dunk on Amare Stoudemire.

One guy who won't get the credit he deserves for getting the Blazers the big lead early on, is LaMarcus Aldridge. He got the game going in the first half by hitting everything in sight. He caused Alvin Gentry plenty of frustrations and the Suns had no answer for Aldridge.

They tried to double team him, but then his teammates did the damage. He may not fill it up from start to finish, but there is something to be said for getting the game in control in the first half.

Excellent win and a great way to enter the All-Star break. I'm proud of the team for bouncing back and making it 10-3 in the second game of back-to-backs this year . Enjoy the days off, and let's get ready for a stretch run to make the playoffs!

On an awesome side note, Bust a Bucket's own Sophia Brugato was on Talkin' Ball tonight . She did a tremendous job; jarring with Jerome Kersey and Michael Holton, talking about the Blazers and even discussing some other topics relating to the representation of women in the media. I have a feeling she'll get asked back on the show sooner rather than later. Way to represent all Blazer fans from the blogosphere Sophia!

Box Score