----- Jerami Grant scored a game-high 36 points, Damian Lillard added 19 points and 10 assists, and Gary Payton II made his season debut as the Portland Trail Blazers hammered the Detroit Pistons 135-106 Monday night at Moda Center.
The wait is over!
Rip City had to wait 35 games, but Monday night marked the season-debut for Gary Payton II as the Trail Blazers improved to 19-17 with a 135-106 victory over the Detroit Pistons at Moda Center.
Payton II finished with seven points, two rebounds, and four assists in 13 minutes. He is currently on a minutes restriction as he returns to action following surgery on a core muscle during the off-season.
Jerami Grant scored a game-high 36 points against his former team. He connected on 12 of his 17 shots including 5-of-8 from three-point range in just 27 minutes of action.
Damian Lillard finished with 19 points and 10 assists and Anfernee Simons scored 30 points on 11-of-18 shooting.
The Blazers got 41 points from their bench with both Shaedon Sharpe and Drew Eubanks scoring in double figures. Eubanks finished recorded a double-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and four steals.
The Blazers defense forced 21 turnovers leading to 37 points and Portland held a 34-17 edge in fast break points.
The Blazers trailed 52-46 with 3:06 left in the first half after a pair of Jaden Ivey free throws. They responded by closing the half on a 15-0 run to take control of the game. Detroit never threatened the rest of the way.
Up Next- The Trail Blazers begin a three-game road trip Wednesday in Minnesota against the Timberwolves. The game is scheduled to tip off at 5:00 PM.
Chad's Take- Portland did everything they were supposed to do against the worst team in the NBA. Lillard played only 29 minutes in a 29-point victory.