Portland Trail Blazers Defeat Los Angeles Clippers, Boost Play-In Hopes

Deni Avdija's 35 points lead Trail Blazers to 116-97 victory over Clippers

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:19pm by

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in motion, with overlapping shapes and planes of color representing the players, the ball, and the court.The Trail Blazers' hard-fought victory over the Clippers keeps their playoff hopes alive, setting the stage for a crucial play-in matchup.Portland Today

The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 116-97 on April 10, 2026, in Portland, Oregon. Deni Avdija led the offensive effort for the Trail Blazers, scoring 35 points, while Donovan Clingan added 18 points and 13 rebounds. The victory places Portland in a stronger position to secure the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

Why it matters

The Trail Blazers' win over the Clippers significantly impacts Portland's postseason aspirations. If the Trail Blazers defeat the Sacramento Kings on April 13, they will secure their position in the 7-8 play-in game, scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, against the Phoenix Suns.

The details

The Trail Blazers established an early advantage, holding a 55-35 lead at the end of the first half. However, the Clippers mounted a comeback in the second half, with Jordan Miller hitting a 3-pointer to give Los Angeles its first lead of the game at 82-79. The lead was brief, as Matisse Thybulle tied the score at 82. The Clippers regained a slim lead of 88-86, but Jrue Holiday tied the score at 88 via free throws. Robert Williams III then gave Portland a 90-88 lead, and the Trail Blazers pulled away in the final stretch, with Avdija's late-game heroics sealing the victory.

  • The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers on April 10, 2026.
  • If the Trail Blazers defeat the Sacramento Kings on April 13, 2026, they will secure their position in the 7-8 play-in game.
  • The 7-8 play-in game is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Phoenix against the Suns.

The players

Deni Avdija

A forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who scored a game-high 35 points in the victory over the Clippers.

Donovan Clingan

A center for the Portland Trail Blazers who contributed 18 points and 13 rebounds to the team's effort.

Robert Williams III

A forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who provided 13 points and 10 rebounds in the game.

Kawhi Leonard

A forward for the Los Angeles Clippers who recorded 24 points and 8 rebounds in the losing effort.

Jordan Miller

A guard for the Los Angeles Clippers who hit a 3-pointer to give the team its first lead of the game.

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What’s next

If the Trail Blazers defeat the Sacramento Kings on April 13, 2026, they will secure their position in the 7-8 play-in game, scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Phoenix against the Suns.

The takeaway

The Trail Blazers' victory over the Clippers showcases their resilience and ability to overcome second-half deficits, putting them in a strong position to clinch a play-in spot and potentially advance to the Western Conference playoffs.