NBA Playoffs must-follow storylines: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Portland Trail Blazers

Predictions

This matchup would make a lot more sense in the second round. Such is the theme of 2020, embracing all the unexpected chaos it brings.

The momentum Portland has built coupled with LA’s continuous tumbles highlights an edge towards the team that needs as many as they can get. That shouldn’t dismiss the body of work the Lakers have established since October.

A 3-point percentage ranked last in the bubble is bound to trend in the right direction. The same could be said of a top-three defense that’s been middle of the pack. With the second-most pre-bubble wins, they’ve earned that benefit of the doubt, even if they’re missing some pieces.

Remember, LA essentially locked up the No. 1 seed in the west following their opening win against the Clippers. Since then, it’s hard to imagine much motivation to go all-out in pursuit of the answers to these struggles.

In a game defined by its best, Lillard’s individual greatness might be enough to get the Blazers a single game. The series, however, will be defined by LeBron and AD, a dynamic duo Portland doesn’t have an answer for.

Prediction: Lakers in 5