Trail Blazers vs. Raptors: Portland Opens Road Trip Looking to Snap Losing Skid
The Portland Trail Blazers are hitting the road-and they’re hoping this trip brings more than just frequent flyer miles. After dropping two straight, Portland opens a five-game road swing tonight against a Toronto Raptors team that’s been one of the East’s early-season surprises.
Tip-off is set for 4:30 p.m. Pacific, and while both teams are looking to get back in the win column, the Blazers are especially eager to reset the tone of their season away from home.
Game Details:
Matchup: Portland Trail Blazers (8-12) at Toronto Raptors (14-7)
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 2
Time: 4:30 p.m. PT
Watch: Rip City Television Network (antenna/cable), BlazerVision (Oregon/Washington), NBA League Pass (national)
Listen: Rip City Radio 620AM
Who’s In, Who’s Out
The Blazers will be without several key players once again. Scoot Henderson, Damian Lillard, Matisse Thybulle, Blake Wesley, and Jrue Holiday are all sidelined. That’s a lot of talent in street clothes, and it continues to test Portland’s depth and resilience.
There is some good news, though: Donovan Clingan (illness) has been cleared to play. His presence in the paint could be a stabilizing factor, especially with so many regulars unavailable.
On the Raptors’ side, RJ Barrett remains out. Even so, Toronto has managed to stay competitive and climb the standings, thanks in part to their depth and defensive versatility.
What’s at Stake
Both teams come in riding two-game losing streaks, but the context is very different. Toronto has been exceeding expectations in the East, while Portland is still trying to find its rhythm in a season full of injuries and lineup shuffling.
For the Blazers, this road trip is more than just a test of endurance-it’s an opportunity to build chemistry, define roles, and maybe, just maybe, start stringing together some momentum. A win in Toronto would be a statement that this team isn’t folding under pressure, even with a depleted roster.
What to Watch
- Donovan Clingan’s Return: Clingan’s availability gives Portland a much-needed interior presence. Watch how he handles Toronto’s frontcourt, especially on the glass and in pick-and-roll defense.
- Ball Movement and Guard Play: With Henderson and Lillard out, playmaking duties will fall to the next men up. Expect the Blazers to lean on committee-style offense, with an emphasis on sharing the ball and creating open looks through movement.
- Toronto’s Pace and Pressure: The Raptors like to push the tempo and apply defensive pressure. How Portland handles that, especially with a shortened rotation, will be key.
The Blazers are in a tough stretch, no doubt about it. But these are the moments that reveal a team’s character.
Can Portland dig deep, lean on its young core, and start this road trip with a spark? We’ll find out tonight in Toronto.