Blazers Stumble Against Spurs, Playoff Hopes Dim

Portland's lackluster effort leads to crucial loss in San Antonio

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstracted basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into overlapping angular shapes in a vibrant color palette.The Blazers' playoff push takes a hit as their offense sputters in a crucial loss to the Spurs.Oklahoma City Today

The Portland Trail Blazers missed a big opportunity to gain ground in the Western Conference playoff race, falling 112-101 to the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. Despite a strong individual performance from Deni Avdija, who scored 29 points, the Blazers struggled with poor shooting and sloppy play, allowing the Spurs to pull away late.

Why it matters

This loss is a significant setback for the Blazers, who are battling the Los Angeles Clippers for the final Play-In Tournament spot in the West. With the Clippers also losing on the night, Portland missed a chance to gain ground and now faces a crucial matchup against their rivals on Friday.

The details

The Blazers were unable to slow down the Spurs' offense, which shot 49% from the field and 38% from 3-point range. Portland's point guard trio of Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, and Blake Wesley combined for just 9 assists, as the team struggled to generate quality looks. Avdija did his best to keep the Blazers in the game, but his 29 points were not enough to overcome the team's overall lackluster performance.

  • The game took place on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • The Blazers will face the Clippers on Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Deni Avdija

A forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who led the team with 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists in the loss.

De'Aaron Fox

A guard for the San Antonio Spurs who scored a team-high 25 points in the win.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We just didn't have the energy or focus tonight. This is a tough loss, but we have to put it behind us and get ready for the Clippers on Friday.”

— Jrue Holiday, Point Guard, Portland Trail Blazers

What’s next

The Blazers will host the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, April 11, 2026, in a crucial game that could determine the final Play-In Tournament spot in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

This loss is a major missed opportunity for the Blazers, who failed to capitalize on the Clippers' own defeat. Portland's inconsistent play and poor execution down the stretch will need to be addressed if they hope to keep their playoff hopes alive in the final stretch of the season.