Trail Blazers' Schedule Lightens, Future Brightens

Gathered secretly in some dark, subterranean cave, the "schedule gnomes" conspired to test the mettle of one of the most promising franchises in the NBA.

Conjuring up a six-week gauntlet out of the gate for the Portland Trail Blazers, the little beasts seemed to be fretting, "If we don't stifle them now, in their youth, they could become dangerous when they grow up..."

Well, those youthful Blazers survived one of the most cruel opening stanzas in their history and remain standing with a surprising 15-10 record, despite losing their last three games. Those three losses, by the way, were to Orlando on a desperation three-point miracle; to Utah, in Utah; and to an inspired (and three-day rested) Clipper team in overtime.

That, after two grueling five-game road trips.

Now, with a three-day rest of their own, the Trail Blazers are looking at a relatively smooth path ahead.

They have two home games against the Kings and Suns, another three-day rest, and then 12 out of 19 at home through January.

Keep in mind that with every game, the young Blazers are developing chemistry and experience. And in spite of—or maybe because of—that challenging early schedule, the injury bug has been kind to Portland.

The depth and versatility of the Trail Blazers is a factor that will really come into play now, and especially later in the season. Minutes will be spread throughout the roster, giving them an advantage over thinner or star-dependant teams.

Against division rivals Utah and Denver, the schedule favors Portland in the last two months. Looking at home-away games in March and April, the Blazers are 13-11, Utah is 9-14 and Denver 12-11, not counting a horrendous eight-game road swing in February.

Though some Portland fans are second-guessing the players and coaches after three straight losses, there is ample reason for optimism. Having had three days to analyze those losses, especially the meltdown against Orlando and failure to put away the Clips, the players and coaches have had to do a real gut-check.

The usual outcome of those evaluations is not good news for future opponents.

Meanwhile, back in some dark and dingy cave, the fretting may have turned to panic...