Full Breakdown
Portland Trail Blazers Edge Sacramento Kings in Overtime Thriller
12/20/2025, 6:54:21 AM
Dramatic Finish at Moda Center
The Portland Trail Blazers narrowly defeated the Sacramento Kings 134-133 in an overtime thriller on December 18, 2025, at the Moda Center. The game featured a dramatic turnaround, with the Blazers nearly squandering a 15-point lead in the final minutes of regulation. Deni Avdija emerged as the hero, scoring two crucial free throws with 1.5 seconds left in overtime after being fouled by Russell Westbrook, sealing the victory for Portland.
Game Overview
The Blazers appeared to be in control, leading by as much as 18 points in the fourth quarter. However, a series of turnovers and missed free throws allowed the Kings to mount a comeback, culminating in a 17-2 run that tied the game at 115-115, forcing overtime. DeMar DeRozan was instrumental for Sacramento, scoring 14 points in the final minutes, including a three-pointer that tied the game with just eight seconds left in regulation.
In overtime, the Blazers initially regained a six-point lead but faltered again, allowing the Kings to take a 133-132 lead with DeRozan's turnaround jumper. Avdija's subsequent foul call against Westbrook, which many in the arena did not initially hear, proved pivotal as he converted both free throws to clinch the win.
Key Performers
Deni Avdija led the Blazers with a standout performance, scoring 35 points, alongside five rebounds and five assists. Shaedon Sharpe contributed 26 points, while Jerami Grant added 20 points, including seven crucial points in overtime. For the Kings, DeMar DeRozan finished with 33 points, including 22 in the fourth quarter and overtime, while rookie Maxime Raynaud scored a career-high 29 points.
Official Statements & Responses
Blazers acting coach Tiago Splitter acknowledged the team's struggles, stating, “We stopped playing. We didn’t manage the clock right... So I think we stopped playing. We relaxed.” Avdija reflected on the game, noting, “Sometimes you’ve just got to be happy with the win... At the end of the season, I don’t think we will remember how we won that game.”
Criticism & Opposition
The Kings expressed frustration over the controversial foul call against Westbrook, which many players believed was unwarranted. DeRozan's late-game heroics were overshadowed by the final decision, leading to disappointment among Sacramento players and fans.
What's Next
The Blazers and Kings will face off again on December 20, 2025, in Sacramento, providing both teams an opportunity to build on their performances from this tightly contested matchup. The Blazers aim to extend their winning streak, while the Kings seek to capitalize on their near-victory.
This game exemplified the unpredictable nature of the NBA, showcasing both teams' resilience and the fine line between victory and defeat.
