The Portland Trail Blazers are in the middle of the class of the Western Conference rankings, but that doesn’t have to mean anything. The West is so crowded and so tight that a two or three game losing streak can take you out of the playoffs. Luckily for the Blazers, their January schedule is light and favourable. Except for a three-game stretch when they play the Clippers, Spurs and the Grizzlies, the Blazers play mostly weaker teams during January. That could be an excellent chance for the team to pile up some wins and move up in the rankings. One thing to keep in mind is the division rankings. The Blazers are way ahead of the Thunder, but Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are catching steam, and they might make up. Currently, the Northwest division is the second most lopsided in the NBA, after the Atlantic where the Raptors have the title wrapped up. Here is Blazers’ January home games at the Moda Center. preview.
Blazers vs Hawks, January 3, Average price $53
The Atlanta Hawks are one of the better teams in the East, but hard-pressed to compete with the elite in the West. The duel would provide an interesting matchup at the point guard position, as well on the center position. Al Horford is one of the most underrated big men in the league, and he is so skilled, that Robin Lopez will have his hands full. Trail Blazers vs Hawks tickets start at $27.00.
Blazers vs Lakers, January 5, Average price $82
There was a time when the duel between the Lakers and the Trail Blazers was significant. Nevertheless, the fans in Rip City will always boo Kobe Bryant, and hate him for the damage he has done to the Blazers. They do recognize his talent, but they do not like him. Not that Kobe loves Portland, but he enjoys playing there.Trail Blazers vs Lakers tickets start at $37.00.
Blazers vs Heat, January 8, Average price $130
Bosh and Aldridge are very similar players nowadays, with Bosh sporting a bigger range than Aldridge. Anyway, their duel is one to watch for, as it might turn out to be a jump shooting contest. Gone are the days when big men were banging in the post. Nowadays, power forwards are more shooters than bangers, and Bosh and Aldridge are two of the best in the league.Trail Blazers vs Heat tickets start at $29.00.
Blazers vs Magic, January 10, Average price $43
The Magic might serve as the appetizer for the Blazers, who travel to Los Angeles to play the Lakers the following night. An easy win would do wonders for the Blazers, who will go through a tough stretch after this game. Elfrid Payton is the new point guard rookie to watch for, and he will have the chance to learn firsthand from Damian Lillard.Trail Blazers vs Magic tickets start at $26.00.
Blazers vs Clippers, January 16, Average price $76
This game marks a three-game stretch in which Portland might go 0-3, or 3-0. In both cases, it will show how good the Blazers are. After they play the Clippers at home, they go for back to back set in San Antonio and Memphis. With the Clippers in town, look to see who will dominate more, Blake Griffin or LaMarcus Aldridge? Nicholas Batum might be the underrated player in this duel, as the Clippers are low on quality wings, leaving Batum free to dominate and assert his will.Trail Blazers vs Clippers tickets start at $27.00.
Blazers vs Kings, January 19, Average price $51
After the rough stretch, Blazers will be more than happy to welcome the Kings, and the mess they are in. After starting the season strong, the Kings are falling behind, and the coaching change might not be the answer. One problem for the Blazers might be Boogie Cousins, who should be healthy for this duel. Sacramento won the first matchup between the teams.Trail Blazers vs Kings tickets start at $18.00.
Blazers vs Celtics, January 22, Average price $62
The Trail Blazers won the first duel with the Celtics, at the Garden, but now they are playing on the second night of a back to back set. They play in Phoenix the previous evening, while the Celtics are more rested. Lillard might have troubles in this game, with Boston’s bevvy of guards able to pest him. Rondo, Bradley and Smart can all play point guard, and all three of them are defensive bulldogs.Trail Blazers vs Celtics tickets start at $18.00.
Blazers vs Wizards, January 24, Average price $49
Few teams boast a big frontline as the Wizards do, and an excellent backcourt at the same time. The Wizards can hurt teams in many ways, but their primary weapon is John Wall. His length and quickness can be a problem for Lillard, but he has shown to find a way to contribute in other areas.Trail Blazers vs Hawks tickets start at $30.00.
Ticket prices based on secondary market averages including nbaexchange and are subject to change.
