Blazers Clinch .500 Season With Clutch Win Over Clippers

Deni Avdija's 35 points and strong 4th quarter defense lift Portland to crucial victory.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:39am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball game, with players and the court deconstructed into sharp, overlapping planes of color.A cubist interpretation of the Blazers' hard-fought victory over the Clippers, capturing the raw intensity and competitive spirit of the game.Los Angeles Today

The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 116-97 on Friday night, led by Deni Avdija's 35 points. The win gives Portland the inside track to the 8th seed in the NBA Play-in Tournament and secures the team's first .500 season in recent memory.

Why it matters

This game had major playoff implications for the Blazers, who are fighting for a spot in the postseason. The victory over the star-studded Clippers squad shows Portland's resilience and ability to win close games down the stretch.

The details

The Blazers jumped out to an early lead, thanks to a 16-point first quarter from Avdija. Portland maintained a double-digit advantage for much of the game, but the Clippers battled back to tie it early in the fourth. However, the Blazers' defense clamped down, and they hit 7-of-7 free throws in the clutch to seal the win.

  • The Blazers host the Sacramento Kings on Sunday, April 13 at 5:30 pm PDT in the regular-season finale.

The players

Deni Avdija

The Blazers' leading scorer, who poured in 35 points to power Portland to the victory.

Kawhi Leonard

The Clippers' superstar, who scored 24 points in the losing effort.

Matisse Thybulle

The Blazers' defensive specialist, who had 3 steals and 2 blocks before leaving the game with a foot injury.

Brook Lopez

The Clippers' center, who is known for his 3-point shooting but was held in check by the Blazers' defense.

Donovan Clingan

The Blazers' big man, who hit three 3-pointers to help stretch the floor.

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What they’re saying

“The crucial difference between this game and the last two was the clutch shooting from the free-throw line. The Blazers hit 7 of 7 when it mattered most and kept the Clippers at bay.”

— Lono Waiwaiole, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game showcases the Blazers' ability to win close, high-stakes games down the stretch, which will be crucial as they fight for a playoff spot. The team's defensive intensity and clutch free-throw shooting were the difference-makers in this crucial victory.