Preview: Wizards at Trail Blazers

PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — The Portland Trail Blazers, surging in the Western Conference playoff race, host the struggling Washington Wizards on Sunday at Moda Center.

Portland (37-37) has won seven of its last 10 games and is coming off a dominant 130-99 victory over Milwaukee on Wednesday. The Blazers have found their rhythm behind a balanced attack and the interior dominance of center Donovan Clingan. Over his last 10 games, Clingan has averaged a double-double, including a 28-point, 13-rebound performance against Indiana and a 21-point, 15-rebound, 6-block outing against Utah.

Washington (17-55) arrives with the league’s worst record but is fresh off one of its best performances of the season, a 133-110 road win over Utah on Wednesday. Rookie forward Julian Reese was spectacular in that victory, posting 26 points and 17 rebounds. He has recorded double-doubles in three of his last four games, including an 18-point, 20-rebound effort against Utah earlier this month.

The teams met once previously this season, with the Wizards securing a 115-111 home win on Jan. 27. Portland will look to avenge that loss and continue its push for postseason positioning.

For the Wizards, the game represents a chance to build on their recent upset win, though they have lost eight of their last ten overall. For the Blazers, it is a critical contest against a lower-ranked opponent as they navigate a tight conference standings race.

The matchup in the paint between the emerging Reese and Portland’s anchor, Clingan, will be a focal point. Portland’s defense, which has held opponents under 100 points in two of its last three games, will aim to contain Washington’s sporadic offense.

Following this game, the Wizards begin a back-to-back in Los Angeles against the Lakers on Monday. The Trail Blazers embark on a two-game road trip starting Tuesday against the Clippers.