Portland Trail Blazers: 3 takeaways from Game 4 loss vs. Warriors

The Portland Trail Blazers’ 2018-19 season came to an end with an overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors. Here are three takeaways from their Game 4 defeat in the Western Conference Finals.

It was another valiant effort, but the Portland Trail Blazers couldn’t get a win off the defending champions. They lost in overtime to the Golden State Warriors in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, 119-117, at the Moda Center Monday night. This completes the 4-0 sweep — Portland’s second at the Dubs’ hands in three seasons — and brings the Blazers’ whirlwind 2018-19 season to an end.

Unlike the previous two games, the Warriors started out in control, leading 36-35 after one quarter. The Blazers waited until 4:32 in the second quarter to kick off their surge. Rip City managed to increase its advantage to 17 with 1:55 left in the third quarter. However, like the previous two games, Portland couldn’t hang onto the big lead. Golden State outscored Portland 41-22 the rest of the way.

Meyers Leonard had the game of his life, scoring a career-high 30 points and grabbing 12 rebounds for the Blazers. Damian Lillard chipped in 28 points and 12 assists, while CJ McCollum added 26 points, seven assists and two blocks.

The Warriors closed out the series with big performances from stars and role players alike. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green each finished with triple-doubles. Curry had a game-high 37 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, while Green had 18 points, 14 rebounds, 11 assists, three steals and two blocks. Klay Thompson added 17 points, and Kevon Looney (14 rebounds) and Alfonzo McKinnie scored 12 points each.

The Blazers’ season is over, but they went out swinging against the NBA’s modern dynasty. Here are three takeaways from their Game 4 loss.