Blazers come back to surprise Suns in play-in game, secure No. 7 seed in the Western Conference.
PHOENIX — Deni Avdija tallied 41 points, highlighted by a crucial 3-point play with 16.1 seconds remaining, as the Portland Trail Blazers overcame an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Phoenix Suns 114-110 in the NBA’s play-in tournament on Tuesday evening.
Jordan Goodwin penetrated for a layup, putting the Suns ahead 110-109 with 32 seconds to go, but Avdija countered with a strong drive to the basket, converting a layup while being fouled and completing the 3-point play for a 112-110 advantage.
The Suns had an opportunity to regain the lead, but Jalen Green’s 3-point attempt missed. Goodwin secured the offensive rebound but was stripped of the ball by Matisse Thybulle, ensuring the victory for the Blazers.
Portland secured the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference playoffs and will compete against the San Antonio Spurs in the opening round.
The Suns will host the victor of the Clippers-Warriors matchup on Friday. The winner of that game will claim the No. 8 seed and face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs. The losing team will see their season conclude.
