Tony Parker worked over Damian Lillard and the Blazers' defense in Game 1. (Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images). What looked to be a fascinating, competitive series between the Spurs and the Blazers was, in its
What looked to be a fascinating, competitive series between the Spurs and the Blazers was, in its opening act, a bit of a massacre. San Antonio never trailed in a game it once led by as many as 29 points, and in the end beat Portland, 116-92, in a walk.
The Spurs will take on the Trail Blazers in the second round of the Western Conference playoffs. How do they stack up and who has the advantage?
Plus, the Spurs are one of the NBA's top defensive-rebounding teams, which could neutralize Portland's excellent offensive rebounding. If Robin Lopez and Thomas Robinson need help creating second-chance opportunities, something the Trail Blazers
The Spurs upped their defensive pressure and offensive precision to impeccability, a combination that obliterated the Mavs in the opening half. This was a playoff series that seemed to defy all regular-season precedent, so I