Portland’s third-quarter surge overturns a halftime deficit
Deni Avdija scored 26 points as the Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Sacramento Kings 128–120 at Golden 1 Center on Friday, October 23. The game, played on October 24 in Philippine time, moved Portland to 2–0.
The Kings led 64–59 at halftime, but Portland changed the direction of the contest with a 44-point third quarter. The Blazers made eight three-pointers in the period after hitting only four before the break, turning outside shooting into the central feature of their comeback.
Damian Lillard and Toumani Camara each added 19 points for Portland. Their support helped the visitors withstand a productive night from Sacramento’s leading scorers.
Rookie Darius Acuff Jr. finished with 33 points for the Kings. Domantas Sabonis recorded 27 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists, while Zach LaVine added 22. Sacramento nevertheless fell to 0–2 after losing its home opener.
The Kings remained close in the fourth quarter, but late scoring and free throws from Donovan Clingan and Avdija helped Portland protect the lead. The decisive difference was the visitors’ response after halftime, when their improved shooting reversed the five-point deficit.
Portland next visits the Lakers on Tuesday, October 27, on the U.S. schedule. Sacramento hosts Memphis on Sunday, October 25, looking to turn strong individual production into its first victory.