Portland Trail Blazers: 3 takeaways from Game 7 win vs. Nuggets

2. Step up or sit down

As stated in the Game 6 takeaways, the playoffs shine a spotlight on players that will force them to either deliver or fold. That light was even brighter in Game 7, the ultimate win-or-go-home situation.

Blazers head coach Terry Stotts did a good job of not sticking to predetermined lineups in this game. Instead, he rewarded players who were producing with additional playing time. It was for that reason that McCollum and Lillard ending up playing over 45 minutes in this game.

McCollum’s production is self-explanatory. Lillard, despite a brutal shooting day, kept himself in the game by seeking opportunities for other teammates and staying focused defensively — thus the eight assists and three steals.

It’s also why Meyers Leonard received significant minutes and Evan Turner played the entire fourth quarter. Zach Collins and Rodney Hood also played well in the game. However, Collins was saddled with foul trouble and Hood’s afternoon ended early due to a hyperextended left knee.

On the other hand, Al-Farouq Aminu and Maurice Harkless had their on-court time cut short. Aminu was benched with 4:52 left in the first quarter and never returned. Harkless sat down at the same time, and likely would have remained out if Hood didn’t get hurt. Luckily, he had a solid stretch to end the third that may have redeemed him in the long-term.

The Portland Trail Blazers’ 2018-19 season was on the line Sunday. There was little time for players to work out their struggles in the moment. Only those that could produce played. That edict allowed the Blazers to come together and clinch the series.