When Nurk went out with that gruesome injury, I was sure that we were a first round exit despite Kanter doing his thing. Before the last game of the season, I was hoping that we'd lose in order to see OKC play HOU in the first round since I can't stand either team. Going into the series against OKC, I was nervous because everyone was saying that they haven't won a playoff series since KD's departure nor have they won a road playoff game during that stretch. Game 1 occurs and our ball movement and player involvement was BEAUTIFUL in the 1Q. What happened afterwards was complete shit and we were lucky that OKC couldn't hit 3s that game. Game 3 occurs and it was type of game where no matter how close we were to cutting the lead/tying the game, we weren't going to get over the hump since the refs had other plans. That game was the ultimate frontrunner display from OKC. Nice for us to steal a game over there and close it out in EPIC fashion in gm 5.
I also believed the Nuggets were fool's gold and I wasn't sure they were going to win their series against the Spurs. Winning that game in San Antonio did wonders as DeRozan transformed to Playoff DeRozan in gm 7. I didn't know what to expect from this series, but to win a game in Denver. The 3Q and the refs were the reasons why we lost gm 4. I was certain we'd lose gm 5, but to bounce back in gm 6 after a pitiful start was great.
So here we are. Game 7. Denver, Colorado with that altitude. First game 7 since 2000. First ever in the Lillard Era. I legit don't know what to expect. We have gone toe-to-toe with the 2nd best team in the West without our starting center and our backup center essentially playing with one shoulder. We have seen the likes of Hood and, to an extent, Collins grow up before our eyes. I'm happy that we get the early game since I live on the East Coast. If we were to lose, I hope we don't get blown out nor lose by a game winning shot. If we were to lose, the WCF will be MUCH MORE TOLERABLE for me since my hatred for the Rockets is on par with the (L)akers. Folks, you don't understand. I wouldn't even have the stomach to watch the WCF if the Rockets came back and won the series. I don't like the Warriors by ANY MEANS, but I like their ball movement and the Splash Bros are amazing to watch when they're on their game. Besides, I'll gladly watch the Warriors win one more title if that guarantees Durant leaving them in free agency.
As much as I hope we win, this Blazers team has exceeded my expectations big time. If anything else, if we can retain Kanter and Hood, I'd be ecstatic. I don't know how, but please get it done. That's all I ask.
Shame on me lol
