The Portland Trail Blazers took center stage in Los Angeles, facing off against the LA Clippers in a game that lived up to its billing as the season's most pivotal matchup. Deni Avdija, fresh off being named an NBA All-Star for the first time, played like a seasoned star, energizing both his team and the crowd.
In a delightful twist, the Intuit Dome was alive with the cheers of Blazers fans, Israelis, and the Jewish community, who rallied behind Avdija with enthusiasm. Every basket was met with roars, and chants of "Deni!" echoed from behind the Blazers bench as Portland secured a 114-104 victory.
Deni Avdija received loud ovations inside Intuit Dome last night from Blazers fans and Israelis who came out to support:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) April 1, 2026
“I'm focused on the game a lot, but it, it... It gives me goosebumps every time I see how many fans are behidn the bench and cheering and loving and shouting… pic.twitter.com/3bs7gYSorD
Avdija was nothing short of spectacular, posting 28 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists. His shooting was sharp, hitting 8-of-15 from the field and a remarkable 11-of-12 from the free throw line.
Despite the intensity of the game, Avdija took a moment to soak in the crowd's support, saying, “I never get used to it. It's always amazing for me and I'm very grateful to have this fanbase.”
Jrue Holiday also shone brightly, contributing 30 points, six rebounds, and seven three-pointers, helping the Blazers showcase a well-rounded offensive effort with four players scoring in double figures.
This win nudged the Trail Blazers within a half-game of the Clippers for the eighth seed in the Western Conference. Portland is in a tight race, aiming to stay ahead of the Golden State Warriors while eyeing a leap past the Clippers in the play-in tournament standings.
With only five games left against the New Orleans Pelicans, Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, and another critical matchup with the Clippers, the Blazers are in a fierce battle. That final game against the Clippers could be the decisive factor in their play-in tournament fate.