----- Damian Lillard scores 31 points as the Portland Trail Blazers hammer the Minnesota Timberwolves 123-114 Wednesday night at Moda Center.
It was the Damian Lillard show Wednesday night at Moda Center. One day after being named to the Western Conference All Star team, Lillard exploded for 31 points in the Blazers 123-114 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Lillard's inspired play came after he thought he was called out by Russell Westbrook who was frustrated that his teammate Paul George was left off the Western Conference All Star team saying, "Unbelievable. I think it's just outrageous, in my opinion," Westbrook said. "I don't know who else made the team but got four people from one team, you've got guys complaining about getting snubbed until they get in, you've got guys just talking about it all the time. But the guys that deserve it -- should be in -- are not. I just don't understand. Doesn't make any sense."
Before Wednesday's game, Lillard responded to Westbrook saying, "I respect Russ a lot, so it was kind of disappointing to see him say that because he's played against me, he's played against our team, he knows what I've accomplished. Not just this year, but over my career. So it was a little bit disappointing, but I know that I earned my spot this year. And that's pretty much what it is: I earned my spot."
Lillard scored 29 of his 31 points for Portland (26-22) in the third quarter. After a sluggish first half which resulted in a 54-54 tie, the Blazers erupted for 43 points in the third quarter to take control of the game. The Blazers shot 54.9% from the field including 17-for-31 from three-point range.
Next up- The Blazers will travel to Dallas to meet the Mavericks on Friday. The game is scheduled to tip off at 5:30 PM.
Chad's take- Westbrook needs to disrespect Lillard at least twice a week for the rest of the season.