Chasing The Playoffs v2 - 2019 Magic Numbers

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Maximum drama with the best case scenarios in play. Hope the guests don’t choke.

[davi78239]

Anyone else wanna tank tomorrow for the 8th seed? I want the highest pick we can get. I don’t care if we have two first rounds, I’m being greedy.

[YGWHI]

In all Spurs' good scenarios (Denver/Portland) they have to win tomorrow....If Pop doesn't rest half team after 1st q we'll fine

[FkLA]

Stupid Roxs is the only thing Imma say.

Fuck’em tbh.

Not so fast my friend. This has the potential to be a really good thing for us.

[Mugen]

Heard if the Lakers win tonight, Magic is going to announce that he's back on board...

[TD 21]

Obviously the priority is avoiding the Warriors and the Rockets, but between the Nuggets and Trail Blazers, people are sleeping on the latter because of what I said the other day.

They're obviously not in the same class as the '15 Clippers, but the same logic applies. Even without Nurkic and with McCollum possibly not 100%, it feels like they have too much riding on this season to lose to a team as flawed as the Spurs.

[timtonymanu]

Dirk, Wade, Gasoft, Enrique all being sent to retirement this season. The 2000s era of stars are all gone. I wonder if Vince plays another year to break the streak.

[GreekSpursfan]

We probably still end up 7th and face Denver, but we get HOU ends up in our bracket and we face them in the 2nd Rd if we beat Denver.

Thx
Its pretty obvious that the pos up in Denver have targeted us from the beggining.

[Mugen]

Dirk, Wade, Gasoft, Enrique all being sent to retirement this season. The 2000s era of stars are all gone. I wonder if Vince plays another year to break the streak.

I think Vince already said hes coming back next year.

[HarlemHeat37]

Thx
Its pretty obvious that the pos up in Denver have targeted us from the beggining.

I don't think so..they just wanted to avoid Houston..they've bodied Portland and OKC all season IIRC, probably prefer getting both those teams in round 1/2..

[DAF86]

Fucking most entertaining night of the season, and the Spurs didn't even play. :lol

[ducks]

Harden no field goal in 4 quarter
Have playoffs started lol

[HarlemHeat37]

How the fuck is Zach Collins in the rotation of a team that might get HCA?:lol he's one of the worst bigs in the league..

[timvp]

Things would have been so easy if the Rockets didn't choke. The Spurs would have just had to win and play the Nuggets.

Now they can conceivably still play the Warriors, Rockets, Blazers or Nuggets. It looks like the most likely is still the Nuggets but damn.

Another thing to add to the equation is if the Blazers lose tonight, the Jazz will go all out to beat the Clippers tomorrow because they could still catch the Blazers. Then there's a very possible scenario where the Spurs choke against the Mavs but get saved from playing the Warriors by the Jazz beating the Clippers :lol

[DAF86]

Not so fast my friend. This has the potential to be a really good thing for us.

An even if the Blazers lose tonight, the most likely scenario is for us to still avoid the Rockets. I don't know why we were pulling for them at the beginning of the night, tbh. :lol

[FkLA]

Thx
Its pretty obvious that the pos up in Denver have targeted us from the beggining.

Nah, Malone actually really mishandled things and they're lucky they kept the 2nd seed. I really doubt they'd give up HCA in the 2nd Rd just to draw the Spurs in the 1st Rd.

[TheDoctor]

Not so fast my friend. This has the potential to be a really good thing for us.
Hardly the Guests lose to the Fakers. But in that case..

https://listimg.pinclipart.com/picdir/s/47-477820_fingers-crossed-rubber-stamp-fingers-crossed-symbol-clipart.png

[FkLA]

Jesus christ the Guests are still down midway through the 4th.

[DAF86]

Things would have been so easy if the Rockets didn't choke. The Spurs would have just had to win and play the Nuggets.

Now they can conceivably still play the Warriors, Rockets, Blazers or Nuggets. It looks like the most likely is still the Nuggets but damn.

Another thing to add to the equation is if the Blazers lose tonight, the Jazz will go all out to beat the Clippers tomorrow because they could still catch the Blazers. Then there's a very possible scenario where the Spurs choke against the Mavs but get saved from playing the Warriors by the Jazz beating the Clippers :lol

Fuck, more great news. Spurs could even tank to avoid both the Warriors and Rockets. Shit would need to go the absolute worst way for the Spurs to not draw a targeted opponent (i.e: Nuggets or Blazers).

[Robz4000]

:lol Guests gonna find a way to choke away a shot at the 3 seed

[SpurPadre]

That's why it's the ideal scenario.

Your post said that OKC needed to lose.

[Arcadian]

How the fuck is Zach Collins in the rotation of a team that might get HCA?:lol he's one of the worst bigs in the league..

Nurkic injury.

[timvp]

Good news right this second is dream scenario is still alive:

1. Warriors
2. Nuggets/Blazers
3. Blazers/Nuggets
4. Rockets
5. Jazz
6. Spurs/Thunder
7. Thunder/Spurs
8. Clippers

[timvp]

:lmao @ Lakers are legitimately better without their overrated, inefficient young "up-and-comers"

Kuzma, Ingram, Hart, Ball ... :lol

[FkLA]

We're all getting hyped that we could avoid the GS-HOU bracket but watch us get slaughtered in the 1st Rd. :lol

[Mugen]

Easily the most entertaining night of the NBA regular season tbh...knowing the 2019 Spurs, they'll probably find a way to finish as the 9th seed :lol

[timvp]

We're all getting hyped that we could avoid the GS-HOU bracket but watch us get slaughtered in the 1st Rd. :lol

Literally nothing would surprise me in a bracket that has the Spurs, Thunder, Nuggets and Blazers.

[spurs1990]

Why are we fretting the Dallas game. If they can't beat a bottom lottery team playing on a B2B while you've had two days off, and a favorable seed is on the line.... Then they get what they deserve

[DAF86]

We're all getting hyped that we could avoid the GS-HOU bracket but watch us get slaughtered in the 1st Rd. :lol

Well, of course. But live in the moment, tbh. :lol

[DAF86]

Why are we fretting the Dallas game. If they can't beat a bottom lottery team playing on a B2B while you've had two days off, and a favorable seed is on the line.... Then they get what they deserve

Depending on what happens on the other games, we might still want to lose that game, tbh. :lol

[TheDoctor]

Why are we fretting the Dallas game. If they can't beat a bottom lottery team playing on a B2B while you've had two days off, and a favorable seed is on the line.... Then they get what they deserve
Why are we going to lie???

[HarlemHeat37]

One of the worst calls of the season:lol

[Russ]

Spurs get 6th if they win tomorrow(assuming OKC doesn't miraculously beat Houston in the 4th tonight)

You were saying . . .

[Robz4000]

Easily the most entertaining night of the NBA regular season tbh...knowing the 2019 Spurs, they'll probably find a way to finish as the 9th seed :lol

:hungry: det lottery pick :hungry:

[TheDoctor]

Daniel CaRusso the god

[DAF86]

Daniel CaRusso the god

Why are you pulling for the Lakers bruh? :lol

[timvp]

Caruso averaged 8 and 5 as a senior at Texas A&M and is suddenly a legit NBA player. Pretty amazing, tbh.

[Cloud786]

Portland is such trash.

[spurs1990]

I'm beginning to hate David Caruso

[Robz4000]

:lmao Guests gonna guest

[ace3g]

Every time I hear Alex Caruso, I think of Daniel LaRusso

[TheDoctor]

Why are you pulling for the Lakers bruh? :lol
Im not pulling for them. Just pointing out the Guests tendency :tu

[ace3g]

Blazers win!!!

[Mugen]

:lmao holy fuck

I love the Lakers....they are the only reason the Spurs have a chance to avoid the Dubs and they basically gift Portland a win at the end

[Mugen]

LAVengers baby!!!!!!!!

[timvp]

So heartless :smokin

Dream scenario still alive.

Seth Curry with his first positive defensive play of his life :lmao

[TheDoctor]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA FUCK YOU LEBRONNNN!!!

[weeks]

guests actually clutched it out, nice

[Robz4000]

The dream lives on, at least for a night.

[spurs1990]

Harkless , whoever the hell he is , is my new favorite player. Sending Houston to the 4 seed!

[FkLA]

https://media.giphy.com/media/rl0FOxdz7CcxO/giphy.gif

[HarlemHeat37]

Caruso averaged 8 and 5 as a senior at Texas A&M and is suddenly a legit NBA player. Pretty amazing, tbh.

He has some Jeremy Lin in him, where he looks like an NBA player on one possession, but a HS bench warmer on the next:lol

[Mugen]

:lmao If you told me the day after LeBron signs, that Magic quits by mid-April and their season ends in the regular season on a buzzer beater loss, I'd apologize immediately for covering you in gallons of jizz tbh.

[KDKSpurs24]

Took Blazers everything they had.. Kings gonna destroy them tomorrow

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1115839760583593984

[Mugen]

Im buying a Moe Harkless jersey tbh. @tlong get your bitch ass in here and let's celebrate my nigga.

[DAF86]

:lol I don't remember another regular season night like this, tbh.

Three meaningful games, all competitive, all finishing one right after the other, all going according to plan. :lol

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Who owns the tiebreaker between OKC and Clippers?

[Arcadian]

:lol lakers...faggots

[timtonymanu]

:lol Lakers

[Mugen]

:lol I don't remember another regular season night like this, tbh.

Three meaningful games, all competitives, all finishing one right after the other, all going according to plan. :lol

Best night of NBA that I can remember in a long time tbh. Cherry on top is Magic pulling an RKelly and losing his mind as he shits all over the Laker organization:lmao

[benefactor]

:lmao If you told me the day after LeBron signs, that Magic quits by mid-April and their season ends in the regular season on a buzzer beater loss, I'd apologize immediately for covering you in gallons of jizz tbh.
This franchise has absolutely nothing to look forward to. Glorious tbh

[timvp]

So now the hope is:

Nuggets beat Timberwolves in Denver (should happen, Minnesota is in full tank and KAT likely to sit)
Blazers beat Kings in Portland (it doesn't look like Kings are tanking so that's not a certainty -- probably 55/45 Blazers)
Spurs beat Mavs (better happen)

Then if you prefer the Nuggets, you want OKC to win in Milwaukee against the Bucks (Giannis out so OKC probably a favorite)
If you prefer the Blazers, you want OKC to lose to the Bucks

[DAF86]

Who owns the tiebreaker between OKC and Clippers?

I don't know. What I do know is that in case of a 3 way tie between the Spurs, Clippers and Thunder, OKC finishes 8th. That's why they don't have the luxury of tanking vs the Bucks.

[Mugen]

If the Spurs lose in a must win game tomorrow at home against a tanking Mavs team on the second night of a b2b.....

That might eclipse Manu dunking all over Bosh in 2014 for me tbh......I'd be a Joker victim at that point....

http://www.outerplaces.com/media/k2/items/cache/2f6e9dfbf26656703d071d309a22eb9f_S.jpg

[KimmyGib]

This loss could turn out to bite us in the ass. Jazz position is set now and have no need to beat the Clippers. So if Spurs lose to Mavs...

[TDomination]

Just win Spurs. Just win.

[DAF86]

This loss could turn out to bite us in the ass. Jazz position is set now and have no need to beat the Clippers. So if Spurs lose to Mavs...

If the Spurs lose tomorrow vs Mavs, Nuggets or Warriors would have been the same.

[Mugen]

I'm good with staying at 7th and playing the Nuggs tbh.

Spurs are gonna lose regardless of who they play in the 1st round but at least they get a higher pick and probably have a shot at taking Denver to 7....

[KimmyGib]

I'd still rather watch a bad loss to Denver than a bad loss to GS

[DAF86]

I'm good with staying at 7th and playing the Nuggs tbh.

Spurs are gonna lose regardless of who they play in the 1st round but at least they get a higher pick and probably have a shot at taking Denver to 7....

Against the Nuggets we probably still lose. Against the Blazers I feel somewhat confident, tbh.

[Keepin' it real]

Mentioned this in game thread ... seems more apropos here:

Emotional post game ceremony honoring Dirk after tonight's Mavs game in which he scored 30. Expect them to go all out to send Dirk into retirement with a W.

[DAF86]

So now the hope is:

Nuggets beat Timberwolves in Denver (should happen, Minnesota is in full tank and KAT likely to sit)
Blazers beat Kings in Portland (it doesn't look like Kings are tanking so that's not a certainty -- probably 55/45 Blazers)
Spurs beat Mavs (better happen)

Then if you prefer the Nuggets, you want OKC to win in Milwaukee against the Bucks (Giannis out so OKC probably a favorite)
If you prefer the Blazers, you want OKC to lose to the Bucks

If Spurs beat the Mavs and the Bucks beat the Thunder, we will be shitting bricks with that Blazers-Kings game, tbh. :lol

[Texas_Ranger]

if we somehow get the Blazers I'll give us a 60% shot at winning the series. Any other team, it's losing in a max 6 games.

[gambit1990]

the spurs own portland tbh.

[TheGreatYacht]

If any of you be@ners cheer for Dirk encouraging him to pop off...

[Russ]

Emotional post game ceremony honoring Dirk after tonight's Mavs game in which he scored 30. Expect them to go all out to send Dirk into retirement with a W.

I think it's just the opposite.

Dallas celebrates tonight and mails it in tomorrow.

Worse news would have been had Dallas lost tonight . . .

[spurs1990]

I don't know. What I do know is that in case of a 3 way tie between the Spurs, Clippers and Thunder, OKC finishes 8th. That's why they don't have the luxury of tanking vs the Bucks.

I'd love for a loss then by OKC

1) they fall to 8th and give GS a long nasty and entertaining 1-8 matchup
2) GS then plays Houston in round two which again will drain them (to a finals loss to Milw hopefully)
3) Spurs get Portland who just let Caruso and his band of rogues take them to the wire

[Eras]

What if Portland, Denver and Houston all have the same record 53-29? Who is 2nd, 3rd and 4th?

[DAF86]

I'd love for a loss then by OKC

1) they fall to 8th and give GS a long nasty and entertaining 1-8 matchup
2) GS then plays Houston in round two which again will drain them (to a finals loss to Milw hopefully)
3) Spurs get Portland who just let Caruso and his band of rogues take them to the wire

1-GS
8-Thunder

4-Rockets
5-Jazz

2-Nuggets
7-Clippers

3-Blazers
6-Spurs

Would be a dream come true. Arguably the 4 toughest teams in the West on the other side of the bracket. :lol

[DAF86]

What if Portland, Denver and Houston all have the same record 53-29? Who is 2nd, 3rd and 4th?

Houston 2nd for sure. Then I think it's Denver 3rd and Portland 4th.

[timvp]

What if Portland, Denver and Houston all have the same record 53-29? Who is 2nd, 3rd and 4th?

It would then be:

2. Houston
3. Denver
4. Portland


And that would mean Spurs play Rockets unless Bucks beat Thunder.




That's pretty unlikely though because Denver should be heavy favorites at home to beat the Timberwolves ... but it definitely could happen.

[KimmyGib]

If the Spurs lose tomorrow vs Mavs, Nuggets or Warriors would have been the same.

I don't know about that. I think it's become clear by now that this Spurs team is capable of both upsetting Denver in the first round, as well as losing a must-win to a bum team like the Mavs. It's also clear they are not capable of upsetting a healthy GS team.

[Chinook]

What if Portland, Denver and Houston all have the same record 53-29? Who is 2nd, 3rd and 4th?

Portland can't beat Houston or Denver. Both are division winners and thus have the zeroth tie-break.

[Uriel]

1-GS
8-Thunder

4-Rockets
5-Jazz

2-Nuggets
7-Clippers

3-Blazers
6-Spurs

Would be a dream come true. Arguably the 4 toughest teams in the West on the other side of the bracket. :lol
We could make the WCF. :lmao

[Uriel]

if we somehow get the Blazers I'll give us a 60% shot at winning the series. Any other team, it's losing in a max 6 games.
Yup.

Nuggets over Spurs in 7, but Spurs have a legit chance to pull off an upset.
Spurs over Blazers in 6.

[TheGreatYacht]

Thanks for the updates yall. Seemed i miss a great night

[gambit1990]

1-GS
8-Thunder

4-Rockets
5-Jazz

2-Nuggets
7-Clippers

3-Blazers
6-Spurs

Would be a dream come true. Arguably the 4 toughest teams in the West on the other side of the bracket. :lol
wow.

[Mugen]

I could easily the Blazers tanking against the Kings tomorrow if OKC wins to avoid the Thunder.

[DAF86]

I could easily the Blazers tanking against the Kings tomorrow if OKC wins to avoid the Thunder.

Jazz are tougher than the Thunder, imho. Not to mention GS in the second round is worst than the Nuggets.

[TimDunkem]

WCF is still a pipe dream. This team can't win on the road.

[Mugen]

Jazz are tougher than the Thunder, imho. Not to mention GS in the second round is worst than the Nuggets.

Pretty sure OKC has handled Portland all year even with a healthy Nurk.

Only thing Portland cares about is getting out of the 1st round and they might think they have a better shot of doing that against Utah (though I'm with you that the Jazz are a much better team, not sure if the Blazers agree tho)

[siraulo23]

Spurs win OKC Loses
Den wins POR wins

Spurs would get the Blazers and avoid Dubs Rockets in the 2nd round

[Chinook]

Spurs win OKC Loses
Den wins POR wins

Spurs would get the Blazers and avoid Dubs Rockets in the 2nd round

Nope. Portland is locked into the four-seed.

[DAF86]

Nope. Portland is locked into the four-seed.

No, they aren't. The fuck are you smoking?

[Chinook]

No, they aren't. The fuck are you smoking?

Yes they are. Houston has the tie-break for third, they've already lost the division to Denver, and they can't fall down to Utah. I'm smoking truth, Homes.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

No, they aren't. The fuck are you smoking?

Cause they aren’t division winners?

[Chinook]

Cause they aren’t division winners?

Yeah. I think a lot of people remember the League changing some rules in 2015 and thinking that division winners get no perks when it comes to playoff considerations. The rule change just made it to where division winners could be in the bottom half of the bracket if they didn't have a top-four record in the conference. The "zeroth tie-break" rule didn't get changed.

[DAF86]

Yes they are. Houston has the tie-break for third, they've already lost the division to Denver, and they can't fall down to Utah. I'm smoking truth, Homes.


Cause they aren’t division winners?

Then why is everybody, everywhere, talking about how the Rockets might fall to 4th if the Blazers beat the Kings? The fucking Nuggets even tanked the Blazers game to get the Rockets out of their bracket. :lol

[Trainwreck2100]

Yup.

Nuggets over Spurs in 7, but Spurs have a legit chance to pull off an upset.
Spurs over Blazers in 6.

nah, nuggets are always fucked when their opponent gets time to get used to the altitude.

[Chinook]

Then why is everybody, everywhere, talking about how the Rockets might fall to 4th if the Blazers beat the Kings? The fucking Nuggets even tanked the Blazers game to get the Rockets out of their bracket. :lol

Pretty sure they tanked the game because they had already won the division. The stuff about the Rockets was fan-talk. Once Houston beat Phoenix, the Blazers couldn't catch them.

[DAF86]

Yeah. I think a lot of people remember the League changing some rules in 2015 and thinking that division winners get no perks when it comes to playoff considerations. The rule change just made it to where division winners could be in the bottom half of the bracket if they didn't have a top-four record in the conference. The "zeroth tie-break" rule didn't get changed.

From Clutchfans: http://rockets.clutchfans.net/11520/houston-rockets-2019-playoff-possibilities/


If the Rockets lose to the Thunder and...

If Portland goes 2-0 ➡️➡️➡️ Rockets are the 4th seed

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

nba.com has the head to head record as first tiebreaker over division leader in two-way ties and division leader as first tiebreaker in multi-way ties.

[DAF86]

Pretty sure they tanked the game because they had already won the division. The stuff about the Rockets was fan-talk. Once Houston beat Phoenix, the Blazers couldn't catch them.

Dude, unless every NBA journalist on TV and the internet is wrong, you are pissing out of the bucket, tbh. :lol

[mystargtr34]

Portland aint locked into shit.. if Nuggets beat Minny tomorrow.. and Blazers win their game its;

2. Denver
3. Portland
4. Houston

If Denver loses and Portland wins its a three way tie and ends up;

2. Houston
3. Denver
4. Portland

If Denver wins and Portland loses;

2. Denver
3. Houston
4. Portland

I think.

Best case scenario for Spurs is obviously win tomorrow and hope Denver and Portland win, then there is a legit chance to get to the WCF as Houston ends up on the Warriors bracket opposite the Spurs.

[mystargtr34]

Most likely scenario is number 1 above imo Den and Por win out. If the Spurs take care of business and win;

If OKC beats Milwaukee which i think they will as i think the Bucks rest their main guys then Spurs get the Nuggets in the 2-7 matchup. 3-6 would be Portland-OKC.

If OKC loses to Milwaukee then Spurs own the tie breaker over OKC which means Spurs get the Blazers in the 3-6 matchup and its Denver-OKC in 2-7 regardless of what Clippers do as Thunder own the tiebreaker over the Clips.

I'm not sure who i prefer vs Portland or Denver.. probably Portland given the Nurkic injury.

[timvp]

Nope. Portland is locked into the four-seed.


Yes they are. Houston has the tie-break for third, they've already lost the division to Denver, and they can't fall down to Utah. I'm smoking truth, Homes.

If Portland and Denver win, the Rockets are 4th seed.

Division becomes the leading criteria if more than two teams are tied. If just two teams are tied, head-to-head record is compared first.

[DAF86]

Most likely scenario is number 1 above imo Den and Por win out. If the Spurs take care of business and win;

If OKC beats Milwaukee which i think they will as i think the Bucks rest their main guys then Spurs get the Nuggets in the 2-7 matchup. 3-6 would be Portland-OKC.

If OKC loses to Milwaukee then Spurs own the tie breaker over OKC which means Spurs get the Blazers in the 3-6 matchup and its Denver-OKC in 2-7 regardless of what Clippers do as Thunder own the tiebreaker over the Clips.

I'm not sure who i prefer vs Portland or Denver.. probably Portland given the Nurkic injury.

I don't think that's correct. I think that in case of a 3 way tie, it's Spurs 6th, Clippers 7th and Thunder 8th.

[mystargtr34]

I don't think that's correct. I think that in case of a 3 way tie, it's Spurs 6th, Clippers 7th and Thunder 8th.

Ah, i think you are correct, cheers.

[Chinook]

If Portland and Denver win, the Rockets are 4th seed.

Division becomes the leading criteria if more than two teams are tied. If just two teams are tied, head-to-head record is compared first.

Weird. NBA.com has that now. Last year, they had division winner at the top. H2H was the first tie-break for HCA, but not for positioning. That meant that (apparently under last year's rules), if Portland and Houston finished the season tied, Houston would get the three-seed based on being a division winner, but if the teams were to meet in the semis, then Portland would have HCA as the third seed.

I find it odd that the NBA tie-break page https://www.nba.com/standings is so condensed now. It doesn't mention the different criteria for Finals HCA, for example. I'm not sure if this is because there has been a rule change to simplify the system, or if this page arbitrarily truncated the sequence. It leaves me skeptical, but I don't think I have a good argument without finding more info.

[kobyz]

Rockets blow it bigtime, they just gift warriors the clippers instead of let them fight the thunder, they should feel very sorry

[spursistan]

A couple of expected results tonight and we are in dream bracket..This shit is about to play perfectly for the Spurs.:lol

[spursistan]

PS. Am I the only one who thinks Rockets would be better off playing the Warriors in the second round?

They are without home court either way, might as well take on the Dubs as early as possible with less wear and tear on Harden and Paul (and with Curry still nursing his ankle)..

[siraulo23]

Nope. Portland is locked into the four-seed.

Nah Spurs Blazers can still happen, Blazers can get the 3rd seed still

[GusT15]

A couple of expected results tonight and we are in dream bracket..This shit is about to play perfectly for the Spurs.:lol

The Nuggets committed the ultimate hubris by throwing away their last two games to shape their bracket as they wanted it.
If Portland and Denver win tonight (as they logically will),the Nuggets shaped their bracket to avoid Houston in the WCSF,and have to go through Spurs/Clips/Blazers/OKC to reach the WCF.

A team coached by a dude that never coached a single game in the Playoffs,led by a dude that has never played a game in the Playoffs,decided to lose games having the Conference Finals in mind.Not the first round in a "one step at a time" mentality.They had the 2nd round and WCF in mind.

This is arrogance,and for basketball reasons,if they fail it will taste oh so much sweeter.

[spursistan]

The Nuggets committed the ultimate hubris by throwing away their last two games to shape their bracket as they wanted it.
If Portland and Denver win tonight (as they logically will),the Nuggets shaped their bracket to avoid Houston in the WCSF,and have to go through Spurs/Clips/Blazers/OKC to reach the WCF.

A team coached by a dude that never coached a single game in the Playoffs,led by a dude that has never played a game in the Playoffs,decided to lose games having the Conference Finals in mind.Not the first round in a "one step at a time" mentality.They had the 2nd round and WCF in mind.

This is arrogance,and for basketball reasons,if they fail it will taste oh so much sweeter.

Yep, that's why I hope we get them and make the whole thing blow up in their face..

[GusT15]

https://twitter.com/royceyoung/status/1115833333907431424

https://twitter.com/mkebucksaus/status/1115779730765230080

[paperboy77]

If it would mean SA vs Portland I really hope the Bucks scrubs play their asses off tonight. It would be huge for their psyche if the bench unit beats a PO team without their stars. Could happen and I think it will. OKC probably exhausted from last nights game and coaching is at a minimum halfway considering effects of going all out tonight. Spurs better put down the Mavs.

[monty4329]

https://twitter.com/royceyoung/status/1115833333907431424

https://twitter.com/mkebucksaus/status/1115779730765230080

who's playing for MIL...?

[GusT15]

If it would mean SA vs Portland I really hope the Bucks scrubs play their asses off tonight. It would be huge for their psyche if the bench unit beats a PO team without their stars. Could happen and I think it will. OKC probably exhausted from last nights game and coaching is at a minimum halfway considering effects of going all out tonight. Spurs better put down the Mavs.

Budenholzer can still put together a competitive line up with Bledsoe/Middleton and an in-form Georgie Hill off the bench.

The question is how many minutes is he gonna play his 2 starters in the game and if he'll actually care enough to coach for the W.

Betting lines of the important-seeding wise-games tonight,as of right now

OKC@MKE Thunder -4.5 favorites
DAL@SA Spurs -13.5 favorites
UTA@LAC Clippers -6.5 favorites
MIN@DEN Nuggets -10.5 favorites
SAC@POR Blazers -8.5 favorites

Pretty obvious it's far from a foregone conclusion that OKC will win tonight.They'll actually have to play and earn the W.

[boutons_deux]

Pretty obvious it's far from a foregone conclusion that OKC will win tonight.They'll actually have to play and earn the W.

they did

[GusT15]

who's playing for MIL...?

Probable line up right now is

Bledsoe/Brown/Middleton/Ilyasova/DJ Wilson

G.Hill only main rotation guy off the bench though.

[monty4329]

Russ will shoot 65 shots...

[acoelho1]

I think Portland would be better match up for us but I'll definitely take Denver over Houston. I see OKC beating Portland for sure and if we bring our A game, we can take down the Nuggets. I think they are soft and still green in terms of the playoffs.

[John B]

Probable line up right now is

Bledsoe/Brown/Middleton/Ilyasova/DJ Wilson

G.Hill only main rotation guy off the bench though.
Damn Coach Bud better help his old boss. I think he’ll send them off strong in front of the home crowd

[GreekSpursfan]

Damn Coach Bud better help his old boss. I think he’ll send them off strong in front of the home crowd

Bud learned his lesson being with Pop that you don't go hard in the last game of the regular season or someone(Manu) might get hurt. Unfortunately i see no hard fight here.

[r0drig0lac]

I think Portland would be better match up for us but I'll definitely take Denver over Houston.

[monty4329]

Damn Coach Bud better help his old boss. I think he’ll send them off strong in front of the home crowd

Now we don't want Denver anymore?

[GusT15]

Now we don't want Denver anymore?

We do! On the second round! :lol

[monty4329]

We do! On the second round! :lol

In that case you want the Clips to beat Denver in the 1st round....

[GusT15]

In that case you want the Clips to beat Denver in the 1st round....

Nah,personally i'm good with a potentially 6 games second round exit to the #2 seed,we can blame it on altitude,talent,DDR etc

Another Doc vs Pop is bad for Spurstalk's and Spursfans mental health,i'll pass.:toast

[HarlemHeat37]

Milwaukee's scrubs could still challenge OKC tonight IMO..they're going to shoot a bunch of 3s, while OKC can't shoot, just have to hope it's one of those nights..

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

I hope Portland doesn't choke against Sacto. That's the game that worries me. Second worry is the Spurs ability to not roll over to let Dirk go out with a win. LMA sounded pretty focused, though, and not too concerned about Dirk's last game. Hopefully the rest of the team won't really care either and just go out and play.

[Dex]

I hope Portland doesn't choke against Sacto. That's the game that worries me. Second worry is the Spurs ability to not roll over to let Dirk go out with a win. LMA sounded pretty focused, though, and not too concerned about Dirk's last game. Hopefully the rest of the team won't really care either and just go out and play.

Too much on the line for the team to care, really.

I know the guys all respect Dirk, but if they aren't focused on a win tonight then I would seriously question their priorities.

[phxspurfan]

Too much on the line for the team to care, really.

I know the guys all respect Dirk, but if they aren't focused on a win tonight then I would seriously question their priorities.

I’m pretty sure just making the playoffs was and still is this rosters ceiling. They may be fine with that and being good citizens of the game to an all time great going out. It is the Spurs way, after all

[blah28]

Too much on the line for the team to care, really.

I know the guys all respect Dirk, but if they aren't focused on a win tonight then I would seriously question their priorities.


Pop is too classy and he wants Dirk to go out as a winner so he will throw the game. CIA Pop

[John B]

Pop is too classy and he wants Dirk to go out as a winner so he will throw the game. CIA Pop
Spurs always play good against Mavs though and vice versa.

[R. DeMurre]

OKC has a former MVP, a current guy in Paul George who was in the running for MVP most of the season, and a solid veteran center, and they're neck and neck with the Spurs, who are in a post-Big three, Post-Kawhi & D Green rebuilding year.

[FkLA]

OKC has a former MVP, a current guy in Paul George who was in the running for MVP most of the season, and a solid veteran center, and they're neck and neck with the Spurs, who are in a post-Big three, Post-Kawhi & D Green rebuilding year.

We take PopaGOAT for granted, tbh.

[monty4329]

OKC has a former MVP, a current guy in Paul George who was in the running for MVP most of the season, and a solid veteran center, and they're neck and neck with the Spurs, who are in a post-Big three, Post-Kawhi & D Green rebuilding year.

Because we have an overall excellent coaching staff and organization, a very good bench, good people, and only one cancerpussy chocker. Imagine with a decent player instead of DDR where we would be

[SpurPadre]

Because we have an overall excellent coaching staff and organization, a very good bench, good people, and only one cancerpussy chocker. Imagine with a decent player instead of DDR where we would be

And don't forget that we've had to endure a glorified G-Leaguer in the starting lineup for the whole season.

[Kobe'sAchilles]

And don't forget that we've had to endure a glorified G-Leaguer in the starting lineup for the whole season.

I thought Murray got injured in the preseason

[spurraider21]

Literally nothing would surprise me in a bracket that has the Spurs, Thunder, Nuggets and Blazers.
Grizzlies in 6

[Dex]

Grizzlies in 6

Too soon.

[SpurPadre]

I thought Murray got injured in the preseason

Oh you mean the guy with a higher PER last season than the guy who was 0-10 against Charlotte a few weeks ago?

[Mugen]

1116035999040069632

Called Portland tanking to avoid OKC tbh.

Now you gotta hope for a Spurs win + Denver Win + OKC win

[Realdeal1]

Dang .. Portland had a chance to send Houston to the golden state side of the bracket but instead will settle for the 4th seed and play the jazz in the first round

[Mugen]

OKC needs a win against the Bucks or they likely face the Warriors in round 1.

I am dead serious in that I wouldn't be at all surprised if retarded ass Pop decided to rest some guys tonight. I legit think he cares more about sending Dirk off right than the Spurs seeding. If that happens, I legit hope he steps down after the team is swept in R1 tbh....

[Mugen]

It'll also be interesting to see what Denver does since their game doesn't start until OKC and Spurs are done.

Would not be surprised at all to see them to try and position themselves to play the Spurs. They've owned OKC but I'm definitely trying to draw the Spurs if I'm in their position. Really hope that's the case tbh.

[Realdeal1]

Ideal situation

Denver wins
Portland wins
San Antonio wins
Oklahoma loses

Portland ( 3) vs Spurs (6)
Rockets get sent to 4th seed and golden state side of the bracket

BUT now knowing Portland is tanking the likely more realistic scenario is

Denver wins
San Antonio wins
Oklahoma wins
Portland loses

(2) Denver vs Spurs (7)
Houston (3) vs Oklahoma (6)

[DavidTheGoliath]

So would it still be possible to have this bracket:

GSW
DEN
POR
HOU
UTA
LAC
SAS
OKC

If yes, who needs to win / lose today to have this outcome?

[Mugen]

OKC is on a 2nd night of a b2b after an emotional win.....Bucks are missing Giannis but they still have Bledsoe / Middleton + shooters at home....

Would not be surprising at all if OKC loses that game and the Spurs end up playing the Rockets.

[Mugen]

So would it still be possible to have this bracket:

GSW
DEN
POR
HOU
UTA
LAC
SAS
OKC

If yes, who needs to win / lose today to have this outcome?

That isn't possible. But switch Spurs and Clippers and that's possible. Would need Denver, Portland, Milwaukee and the Spurs to win.

[Realdeal1]

Thunder are in a rough spot.. if they win they more likely draw the rockets as the 6th seed and if they lose tonight they draw golden state as the 8th seed

[DAF86]

1116035999040069632

Called Portland tanking to avoid OKC tbh.

Now you gotta hope for a Spurs win + Denver Win + OKC win

Fuck. Go Thunder then.

[DAF86]

1116035999040069632

Called Portland tanking to avoid OKC tbh.

Now you gotta hope for a Spurs win + Denver Win + OKC win

How do you not take the chance of going on the other side of a Warriors/Rockets bracket? SMH.

[DavidTheGoliath]

That isn't possible. But switch Spurs and Clippers and that's possible. Would need Denver, Portland, Milwaukee and the Spurs to win.

Im fine with having POR too. As long as OKC gets to play GSW, and HOU gets on their bracket.
But knowing POR and MIL would be resting their guys, this would be almost impossible. Still hoping tho. *Praying dog pic

[Mugen]

How do you not take the chance of going on the other side of a Warriors/Rockets bracket? SMH.

Told ya bruh, Guests only care about getting out of the 1st round. They think they have a better chance of beating Utah than OKC. I disagree with their assessment but they think it's probably easier to shut down Mitchell than worry about PG/Russ...I actually admire teams that tank for positioning tbh....

[Realdeal1]

Fuck Portland ! Idiots could have had an easier path to the western conference finals

[DAF86]

Told ya bruh, Guests only care about getting out of the 1st round. They think they have a better chance of beating Utah than OKC. I disagree with their assessment but they think it's probably easier to shut down Mitchell than worry about PG/Russ...I actually admire teams that tank for positioning tbh....

I guess so. Such a mediocre line of thinking, tbh. They are getting fucked by the Jazz either way.

[Mugen]

1116056947554492419

:lol Damn... this is why I wanted the Rockets to win last night tbh. Looks like Spurs @ Houston for the first round is looking more and more likely.

[Mugen]

Do the Thunder own the tiebreaker over the Clippers?

[Realdeal1]

Damn... so if thunder lose and Spurs win .. any chance Portland reconsiders tanking to draw the Spurs as the 3rd seed and send Houston to 4th

[TDomination]

1116056947554492419

:lol Damn... this is why I wanted the Rockets to win last night tbh. Looks like Spurs @ Houston for the first round is looking more and more likely.

still better than playing GSW. yeah harden is annoying and he's going to get our entire team fouled out but i hang on to this one little slimmer of hope....that Pop has NEVER lost to Pringles in the playoffs. That is a guy Pop can actually outcoach and has done so for 10+ years.

[GreekSpursfan]

Do the Thunder own the tiebreaker over the Clippers?

We are talking here all these days about who we're going to face and most of us(including me) still haven't bothered to look what the deal is with the tiebreakers and all that shit.
It just goes to show how much faith we have on this team and the chances to advance, zero, cero, zilch.
Bring the Dubs, whatever.

[NASpurs]

I still want the Ws and a quick and painless death. End us fam.

^^^Post #666 in this thread. Nice.

[Seventyniner]

still better than playing GSW. yeah harden is annoying and he's going to get our entire team fouled out but i hang on to this one little slimmer of hope....that Pop has NEVER lost to Pringles in the playoffs. That is a guy Pop can actually outcoach and has done so for 10+ years.

That's part of why I don't want the Spurs to play the Rockets. I want Pop to retire with a perfect record against D'Antoni, but they have the far better team this year.

[DAF86]

1116056947554492419

:lol Damn... this is why I wanted the Rockets to win last night tbh. Looks like Spurs @ Houston for the first round is looking more and more likely.

If OKC loses they will get the Warriors. They would definitely not be tanking.

[DAF86]

Also, the Bucks are resting everybody and their mothers.

[Mugen]

If OKC loses they will get the Warriors. They would definitely not be tanking.

Depends on who owns the tiebreaker between them and the Clippers (forgot to take that into consider earlier tbh). If OKC owns it, there is pretty much zero reason to win tonight against Milwaukee since they are guaranteed to not play the Dubs...

Donovan said they're going for the highest seed but that might just be coach speak....

[Mugen]

1116060676714156032

Not surprising

[spursistan]

the fuck Portland is doing :lol..


Quin Snyder is probably the best coach in the West. He will coach circles around Stotts and beat them..Mark my words..

The Thunder are really overrated. A flawed roster that can't shoot and mediocre coach..There is always a chance for Westbrook to go full retard and gift you a couple of games and PG is not 100%..

[monty4329]

Funny how the league fines teams for resting players during the season if the game is on national tv, or for not playing quitters (A. Davis), but has nothing to say when teams do not play a competitive roster on the last game(s) of the season with very significant implications on he final standings.

[monty4329]

the fuck Portland is doing :lol..


Quin Snyder is probably the best coach in the West. He will coach circles around Stotts and beat them..Mark my words..

The Thunder are really overrated. A flawed roster that can't shoot and mediocre coach..There is always a chance for Westbrook to go full retard and gift you a couple of games and PG is not 100%..

It is crazy, in fact. Even if they beat UTAH (they won't) then they would play GS.

But maybe they really are exhausted, it is a b2b and they already abasically lost to the Lakers' G-League team. Still, mindbobbling.

[timvp]

Do the Thunder own the tiebreaker over the Clippers?

Clippers own the tiebreaker. If Thunder lose to Bucks and the Spurs and Clippers win, OKC plays the Warriors in the first round.

I can't imagine OKC is dumb enough to tank. PG has to be legitimately injured.

With the Bucks being at home and Middleton and Bledsoe apparently playing, the Thunder could very well lose that game. :td

[timvp]

1116035999040069632

Called Portland tanking to avoid OKC tbh.

Now you gotta hope for a Spurs win + Denver Win + OKC win

Good call. RIP dream scenario.


1116060676714156032

Not surprising

Yeah, Jazz with nothing to play for. But it now makes it officially win or RIP for the Spurs tonight.


Also, the Bucks are resting everybody and their mothers.

Are they? I've only seen Giannis and Lopez so far, tbh.

[NASpurs]

Are they? I've only seen Giannis and Lopez so far, tbh.

I'm assuming he's saying that because of this post:




https://twitter.com/mkebucksaus/status/1115779730765230080

[timvp]

^ AFAIK, all those guys are legit injured other than Giannis and Lopez, tbh.



P.S.

Thanks again, Bud, for taking Gasol's corpse :lol

[timvp]

Spurs with the anti-tank by listing Dante Cunningham as out. Looks like Pop means business, boys.

[R. DeMurre]

It's going to be fun watching second teamers & end of the bench guys going full throttle and possibly changing the fortunes of their own teams and opposing teams... I'd love to see Ersan Illyasova, D.J. Wilson, and George Hill have great nights and make OKC face Golden State in the first round.

[Mugen]

Clippers own the tiebreaker. If Thunder lose to Bucks and the Spurs and Clippers win, OKC plays the Warriors in the first round.

I can't imagine OKC is dumb enough to tank. PG has to be legitimately injured.

With the Bucks being at home and Middleton and Bledsoe apparently playing, the Thunder could very well lose that game. :td

Great news. Agree that OKC can't be retarded enough to intentionally tank tonight. But that game has always felt like a toss-up for me even before PG was listed as questionable.

[r0drig0lac]

I still want the Ws and a quick and painless death. End us fam.

^^^Post #666 in this thread. Nice.

[GusT15]

^ AFAIK, all those guys are legit injured other than Giannis and Lopez, tbh.



P.S.

Thanks again, Bud, for taking Gasol's corpse :lol

Giannis,Lopez rest.
Snell,Connaughton day to day-Ankle.
Mirotic 2-4 weeks (on week 3)-Thumb (fracture)
Brogdon 6-8 weeks (on week 4)-Plantar Fasciitis
DiVincenzo Out for Season -Heel Bursitis
Gasol 4-6 weeks (on week 2)-Ankle,General:Second stage of decomposition-Bloated

[lmbebo]

Confusing, will wait for dust to settle and complain when its done :)

[exstatic]

Giannis,Lopez rest.
Snell,Connaughton day to day-Ankle.
Mirotic 2-4 weeks (on week 3)-Thumb (fracture)
Brogdon 6-8 weeks (on week 4)-Plantar Fasciitis
DiVincenzo Out for Season -Heel Bursitis
Gasol 4-6 weeks (on week 2)-Ankle,General:Second stage of decomposition-Bloated

:lol :lol

[Arcadian]

Nevermind all this west seeding nonsense. The REAL drama is whether the Hornets or Pistons will make the eastern 8th seed!

:lol

[Mugen]

Not sure about you guys but im going to be cheering for that Mongoloid Curry brother to put up 50+ in a win tonight tbh.

[Kobe'sAchilles]

Oh you mean the guy with a higher PER last season than the guy who was 0-10 against Charlotte a few weeks ago?
Yeah that's the guy! He also had 25 games last year where he scored 5 points or less.

[SpurPadre]

Yeah that's the guy! He also had 25 games last year where he scored 5 points or less.

Yet he still has a higher PER than White, which places a big emphasis on offense over defense!

[Arcadian]

I'll happily welcome both White and Murray on the team. Why is there a rivalry among some fans?

[Mugen]

PG out tonight for OKC

[timvp]

PG out tonight for OKC

Bucks probably favored now :td

[NASpurs]

:lol so the Spurs will probably move up with a win and face the Rockets?

Tank this game asap.

[Robz4000]

God damn, talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place. Spurs gonna get skunk'd out of the playoffs regardless of winning or losing tonight.

[timvp]

:lol so the Spurs will probably move up with a win and face the Rockets?

Tank this game asap.

Only available tank is a tank to play the Warriors, tbh.

[spurraider21]

OKC needs a win against the Bucks or they likely face the Warriors in round 1.

I am dead serious in that I wouldn't be at all surprised if retarded ass Pop decided to rest some guys tonight. I legit think he cares more about sending Dirk off right than the Spurs seeding. If that happens, I legit hope he steps down after the team is swept in R1 tbh....
are you out of vagisil brah?

[gilmor]

Only available tank is a tank to play the Warriors, tbh.

Totally agree

[timvp]

Bledsoe also not playing so the Thunder should have a pretty decent chance.

[Mugen]

are you out of vagisil brah?

You offering some of yours?

[Kobe'sAchilles]

I'll happily welcome both White and Murray on the team. Why is there a rivalry among some fans?
The dude is obsessed with White tbh. He originally was shit talking Forbes and then brought up White for no reason. It's like his go to move, did you insult Murray (in response to my insult to Forbes)?? I'm going to randomly bring up White's name now to insult him as well.

[Kobe'sAchilles]

Bledsoe also not playing so the Thunder should have a pretty decent chance.
I still have faith in Westbrook :lol

[mystargtr34]

Bledsoe also not playing so the Thunder should have a pretty decent chance.

Why do you want the Thunder to win? You want Denver in the 2-7 instead of Portland in the 3-6?

Or are you thinking there's a chance Portland loses and we get the Rockets in the 3-6 if the Thunder lose?

[GreekSpursfan]

Denver back on the menu boys.

[timvp]

Why do you want the Thunder to win? You want Denver in the 2-7 instead of Portland in the 3-6?

Or are you thinking there's a chance Portland loses and we get the Rockets in the 3-6 if the Thunder lose?

Portland is tanking to play the Jazz in the first round. If the Thunder lose, the Spurs will play the Rockets in the first round.

[spurraider21]

You offering some of yours?
offering to pay for yours tbh

[timvp]

Bud is limiting Middleton too. Thunder better not find a way to lose this, tbh :lol

[spurraider21]

Portland is tanking to play the Jazz in the first round. If the Thunder lose, the Spurs will play the Rockets in the first round.
what if the thunder win in this scenario? denver?

[timvp]

what if the thunder win in this scenario? denver?

Denver ... as long as they don't lose to the T'Wolves.

[mystargtr34]

Portland is tanking to play the Jazz in the first round. If the Thunder lose, the Spurs will play the Rockets in the first round.

Ah sheet i just read the previous page.. didn't realise Portland is that pathetic and tanking.

Definitely need a Thunder win in that case agree.

Man, that dream scenario really was too good to be true.

[spurraider21]

Denver
with all these scenarios its nice to get a clear answer :tu


... as long as they don't lose to the T'Wolves.
:pctoss

[mystargtr34]

To me its still crazy that Portland would tank tonights game. If they end up 3, they have a reasonable shot at the WCF. They should think they have a shot against the Spurs, Denver or OKC.

I guess they really don't think they can beat the Thunder in a series and would prefer one series win and a guaranteed second round exit against the Warriors as opposed to a potential WCF berth.

Probably typical of a loser franchise like them tbh so shouldn't be surprised :lol.

[spurraider21]

timvp got his tabs open like

https://media.giphy.com/media/ohdY5OaQmUmVW/giphy.gif

[mystargtr34]

Suppose Stotts is trying to save his job by avoiding another first round exit at all costs.

[timvp]

timvp got his tabs open like

https://media.giphy.com/media/ohdY5OaQmUmVW/giphy.gif

:lol Tbh.

[rascal]

What happens Denver, Portland and Houston 3 way tie?

[timvp]

What happens Denver, Portland and Houston 3 way tie?

2. Houston
3. Denver
4. Portland

[ace3g]

Thunder up 10 at halftime.

[timtonymanu]

Bud trying to help the Spurs not draw Houston in the 1st round :tu

[Russ]

The Warriors gave up 86 points to Memphis in the first half . . .

[NASpurs]

Fucking Ws fucking us over out of that 28th pick

[Dejounte]

Whats the best possible outcome? Highest draft pick and what seed?

[007nites]

Adams just went down hard and went back to the locker room.

[ace3g]

https://www.rotoworld.com/sites/default/files/teams/secondary/2018-11/Minnesota%20-%20178x142_0.png (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/teams/min/minnesota-timberwolves) Karl-Anthony Towns (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/30157/karl-anthony-towns) C, Minnesota Timberwolves (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/teams/min/minnesota-timberwolves)
https://www.rotoworld.com/sites/default/files/players/51/2459.jpg (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/30157/karl-anthony-towns)
Karl-Anthony Towns (right knee) has been ruled out for Wednesday against the Nuggets.
He was held to just 77 games this season with some knee soreness and a car crash after playing in 82 in each of the first three seasons of his career. Gorgui Dieng is going to get big minutes today as a chalky DFS play. KAT is still a top-five player for next seasons.

Source: Wolves on Twitter (https://twitter.com/Twolves_PR/status/1116145536896122880)
Apr 10, 2019, 8:09 PM


https://www.rotoworld.com/sites/default/files/teams/secondary/2018-11/Minnesota%20-%20178x142_0.png (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/teams/min/minnesota-timberwolves) Taj Gibson (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/29496/taj-gibson) PF, Minnesota Timberwolves (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/teams/min/minnesota-timberwolves)
https://www.rotoworld.com/sites/default/files/players/51/1628.jpg (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/29496/taj-gibson)
Taj Gibson (calf) will not play in Wednesday's game against the Nuggets.
Gibson will miss the last game of the season, giving way to Gorgui Dieng once more. Gibson will finish the season with 70 games played.

Source: Timberwolves PR on Twitter (https://twitter.com/Twolves_PR/status/1116145536896122880)
Apr 10, 2019, 8:08 PM


https://www.rotoworld.com/sites/default/files/teams/secondary/2018-11/Portland%20-%20178x142.png (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/teams/por/portland-trail-blazers) Damian Lillard (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/29806/damian-lillard) PG, Portland Trail Blazers (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/teams/por/portland-trail-blazers)
https://www.rotoworld.com/sites/default/files/players/57/1957.jpg (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/29806/damian-lillard)
Damian Lillard will be active on Wednesday, according to coach Terry Stotts, though "he might not play."
Lillard rarely rests and Portland does have a path to the No. 3 seed, but it seems like they'll prioritize keeping him healthy. We'll find out soon enough. C.J. McCollum (rest, knee) won't play tonight, and Stotts hasn't walked that back, so there should still be plenty of minutes available for other Blazers guards.

Related:

C.J. McCollum (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/29927/cj-mccollum)
, Seth Curry (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/29992/seth-curry)
, Rodney Hood (https://www.rotoworld.com/basketball/nba/player/30060/rodney-hood)


Source: Casey Holdahl on Twitter (https://twitter.com/CHold/status/1116140355450093568)
Apr 10, 2019, 7:50 PM

[spurraider21]

Adams just went down hard and went back to the locker room.
https://media1.tenor.com/images/b14e60b42957509ce5be3f8bf28d8e28/tenor.gif?itemid=4956349

[spurraider21]

bucks clawing back

[ace3g]

Thuder up 98-89 end of the 3rd.

[spurraider21]

okc up 14 and with 8 minutes ago and they're bringing westbrook back in off the bench

[Leetonidas]

okc up 14 and with 8 minutes ago and they're bringing westbrook back in off the bench

I'm assuming he doesn't have a triple double yet? :lol

[Spurs 4 The Win]

Denver incoming unless some crazy shit goes down

[212094ever]

Let's hope Denver and Portland win so the Rockets and the Warriors face each other in the second round.

[Russ]

After this first round of games, the possibilities simplify as follows:

Minny
vs
Denver

Jazz
vs
Clippers

Kings
vs
Blazers

I think there are eight potential combinations.

Minny wins, Jazz win, Kings win

Minny wins, Jazz lose, Kings win

Minny wins, Jazz lose, Kings lose

Minny loses, Jazz win, Kings win

Minny loses, Jazz lose, Kings win

Minny loses, Jazz lose, Kings lose

Kings lose, Jazz win, Minny wins

Kings lose, Jazz win, Minny loses

Are there others?

If not, what is the seeding outcome for each scenario?

[Spurs 4 The Win]

We are playing Denver unless they lose, in which case we are playing Houston. It really simplifies for us now.

[GreekSpursfan]

We play Denver, no need to overanalyze it

[phxspurfan]

Rich and creamy Nougats control their destiny?

[Joseph Kony]

hopefully they dont tank this game because Towns is out and they should win, unless they want to play OKC in the first round which i dont think they do. really dont want to watch Harden continue to disgrace the game of basketball against us

[Russ]

Rich and creamy Nougats control their destiny?

It looks like Denver can pick the Spurs in the first round (by winning) or OKC (by losing).

[ZeusWillJudge]

Yeah! We're Number Seven!!!

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/527554b0e4b0ad8b178be174/t/5ba9351953450a3fe65a624d/1537815850902/seven?format=2500w

[timvp]

Portland is tanking and the Clippers game doesn't impact the Spurs so it's basically up to the Nuggets. Nuggets win, Spurs play the Nuggets. Nuggets lose, Spurs play the Rockets.

[Uriel]

Sucks. Playing Portland would've been a dream come true. Oh well. Better Denver than Golden State or Houston.

[HarlemHeat37]

hopefully they dont tank this game because Towns is out and they should win, unless they want to play OKC in the first round which i dont think they do. really dont want to watch Harden continue to disgrace the game of basketball against us

They would get Houston in round 2(and without HCA) if they lose tonight IIRC, which would defeat the purpose of the plan they've been trying to pull..

[Joseph Kony]

refs do have a tendancy to stop giving Harden so many ridiculous FTs in the playoffs, and LA has played well against them in the past. but would feel much better with Millsap or Plumlee guarding him instead of Capela

[DAF86]

They would get Houston if they lose and Portland wins, which would defeat the purpose of the plan they've been trying to pull..

Even if Portland loses. Denver would be giving up HCA to the Rockets with a loss tonight. They can't tank.

[HarlemHeat37]

Portland is tanking and the Clippers game doesn't impact the Spurs so it's basically up to the Nuggets. Nuggets win, Spurs play the Nuggets. Nuggets lose, Spurs play the Rockets.

Didn't they say Lillard might play now?

[Mugen]

Higher pick and they avoid getting hammered by the Dubs in the 1st round. :lobt2:

[ace3g]

Tony Jones (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba) (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba) @Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)


Damian Lillard is now active tonight for Portland
9:19pm · 10 Apr 2019 (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba/status/1116163788355452928) · Twitter for iPhone (http://twitter.com/download/iphone)

[John B]

So if Nuggets win against TWolves, they get the Spurs. If they lose, they get Thunder. I guess they’ll win to get Spurs :lol, but better for us

[Russ]

So if Denver wins, should Spurs fans be glad we lost to Sacramento at home (thereby getting Denver rather than the Rockets in the first round)?

[ginobilized]

The Nuggets swept OKC this season and split with the Spurs.
I hope they don't lose tonight to face Thunder.
I guess we'll know soon enough.
Bring on the Nuggets!!!

[Mugen]

Give my OKC and Donovan any day of the week over Utah + Snyder.....especially if PG is in any way limited...

Not sure why dumbass Portland doesn't just try and win tonight...

[phxspurfan]

So if Nuggets win against TWolves, they get the Spurs. If they lose, they get Thunder. I guess they’ll win to get Spurs :lol, but better for us

I definitely think they'll try to win (at least in the first half) since a win gives them HCA over a possible Houston 2nd round matchup. But Houston is a better team and is playing better rn, so there's a chance they're getting shit on by mid 3rd quarter and mail it in to rest their guys