Avdija scores 41 as Trail Blazers beat Suns to clinch seventh seed
Deni Avdija scored 41 points to inspire the Portland Trail Blazers to a 114-110 comeback victory over the Phoenix Suns in Tuesday’s NBA play-in tournament, securing the seventh seed in the Western Conference.
The visitors trailed by 11 points in the fourth quarter before rallying dramatically in Arizona.
A go-ahead three-point play from Avdija with just 16.1 seconds remaining proved decisive in a thrilling conclusion.
Jordan Goodwin had briefly restored a 110-109 advantage for Phoenix with a driving layup moments earlier.
However, the Portland forward responded with a physical drive to the basket, drawing a crucial foul while finishing the play.
Late defensive stand seals Portland progression
The Suns were given one final opportunity to salvage their evening after falling 112-110 behind.
Jalen Green failed to connect on a desperate three-point attempt to reclaim the lead for the hosts.
Goodwin managed to secure the offensive rebound but was immediately stripped of possession by Matisse Thybulle.
That vital defensive intervention from the elite perimeter defender effectively ended the contest.
Spurs await as Suns face sudden death
Portland’s reward for navigating the opening stage of the play-in tournament is a first-round playoff series against the San Antonio Spurs.
Phoenix must now regroup quickly to save their season in a do-or-die elimination game on Friday.
They will host the winner of the upcoming clash between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Golden State Warriors.
The victor of that final fixture will claim the eighth playoff seed and advance to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.
