That's why you play the games. As Micheal Holden likes to say, those other teams have millionaires, too. And, as Charles Barkley says, there are no bad players in the NBA. Every team in the league has enough talent to beat any other team on any given night.
New Jersey beat Utah tonight. The Jazz also lost to Washington on Monday. The Magic barely beat the 76ers by one point, in OT, at home tonight. The Bulls, who were 18-3 at home lost at home last night to the Bobcats, who were 3-14 on the road. The Lakers lost to the Clippers on Sunday. They've also lost to Memphis twice this season. Good teams lose to bad teams just about every night. It happens. Given the Blazers depleted roster, it's encouraging that they are finding ways to win these games they should win. I'll take winning ugly over losing any time.
I also think winning these close games improves their confidence and gives them a chance to learn how to close out games. They've relied on Brandon Roy for that in the past. With Roy out, and his future uncertain, it's good for the rest of the guys to learn how to win these close games - even if they are against lesser opponents. The confidence and experience they gain now will make them better prepared for close games against better opponents in March and April when they are fighting to make the play-offs. It will also make them better prepared for the play-offs once they get there.
BNM