Portland Trail Blazers: 3 takeaways from 2018-19 season opener

1. This was a signature win to kick off a make-or-break season

This matchup was circled on Blazer Nation’s calendar for multiple reasons. Of course, it was the season and home opener. However, it was also the debut of the mighty LeBron James in a Lakers uniform, presenting yet another challenge in the Western Conference.

On top of that, the matchup would be on national television. A good showing on Thursday night would open a lot of eyes across the country and show them what is really going on in the Northwest.

The game itself did not disappoint. Both teams combined for 247 points and there were seven ties and seven lead changes. ESPN Gamecast’s win probability chart indicates that the game was up for grabs until about halfway through the fourth quarter.

In the end, however, the Portland Trail Blazers came out victorious. Despite shooting a combined 39.4 percent from the field, Lillard and McCollum found a way to lead their team to the win. Most importantly, though, a number of role players stepped up as well.

Of course, Nik Stauskas had his incredible debut performance, which fans can only hope carries over into the rest of the season. Maurice Harkless was involved and engaged off of the bench in his first game back from injury. He finished with seven points, six rebounds and three blocks.

Zach Collins showed off his summer improvements as a rim protector, swatting six shots and pulling down five defensive boards. Lastly, Evan Turner looked confident in his return to the secondary playmaker role. He made all five of his attempts within eight feet of the rim and led the team in assists.

Despite being the first of 82, this game was important for the Portland Trail Blazers. They needed to show people they are still a playoff contender in the Western Conference. Even though their opponent had a LeBron and pounded them in the paint, the Blazers fought through the waves of Lakers runs and secured the win.

We’ll see if they can keep this same energy and start a season 2-0 for only the fourth time in nine seasons. when they host the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night.