Portland Trail Blazers Dominate Orlando Magic, Stay Alive in Summer League Playoffs
By Ryne Buchanan – July 13, 2023 8:57 pm
The Portland Trail Blazers displayed their dominance in the NBA Summer League as they cruised to an 88-71 victory over the Orlando Magic in Las Vegas. With this win, the Trail Blazers improve their Summer League record to 3-1 and keep their hopes alive for the upcoming Summer League Playoffs.
Although the game did not feature three 2023 lottery picks, with Scoot Henderson for Portland and Anthony Black and Jett Howard for Orlando inactive, Michael Devoe stole the show with an impressive performance. Devoe, starting at point guard for the Blazers, scored 18 points to lead the team to victory.
Despite a slow start, Portland turned the tide by going on a 36-7 run in the first half, beginning from the 4:21 mark of the first quarter. The Magic struggled to score, managing only 19 points in the first 20 minutes of the game. Although Orlando improved in the second half, they were unable to overcome the 26-point halftime deficit.
Apart from Devoe’s standout performance, other Blazers players also contributed to the victory. Jabari Walker recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, solidifying his position as a key player for the upcoming season. Duop Reath, the backup center, showcased his skills with 12 points, five rebounds, and three steals, making a strong case for a spot on the team’s training camp roster.
Rookie Kris Murray experienced an up-and-down game, struggling with his shooting but showing off his defensive prowess with two steals. Fellow rookie Rayan Rupert played 31 minutes, establishing himself as a strong defender without any fouls, but struggled offensively going 1-7 from the field. Shaedon Sharpe, although limited to 12 minutes, displayed his talent with a highlight-reel dunk.
Ibou Badji had his best performance of the Summer League, gaining confidence throughout the games. In the matchup against the undersized Magic, Badji contributed six points, seven rebounds, and two blocks over 22 minutes.
The Blazers now eagerly await the results of tomorrow’s games to determine their qualification for the Summer League Playoffs. The top four teams with the best record and point differential advance to the semifinals on Sunday, with the championship game set for Monday night. Regardless of the playoff outcome, Portland will play at least one more game this weekend, with the opponent to be announced after the playoff field is set.
The Trail Blazers have their sights set on defending their Summer League title from last year, and with their impressive performance against Orlando, they are on track to make a deep playoff run.