Deni Avdija scored 35 points, including the game-winning free throws with 1.5 seconds left in overtime, as the Portland Trail Blazers (11-16) defeated the Sacramento Kings (6-21) 134-133 at Moda Center on Thursday night.
DeMar DeRozan led Sacramento with 33 points, including 22 in the fourth quarter and overtime, and made all 10 of his free throws. Maxime Raynaud added a career-high 29 points, while Russell Westbrook contributed 20 points and 10 assists.
Portland rallied from a late deficit after DeRozan’s jumper gave the Kings a 133-132 lead. Avdija was fouled by Westbrook on the final possession and converted two free throws to secure the victory.
Shaedon Sharpe scored 26 points, hitting four 3-pointers, Jerami Grant added 20, Donovan Clingan contributed 19, and Toumani Camara finished with 17 for the Trail Blazers. Avdija also recorded five assists and five turnovers.
The Kings rallied with a 17-2 run in the final 2:28 of regulation, forcing overtime after DeRozan’s 3-pointer with eight seconds left. Portland controlled much of the extra period, outscoring Sacramento 19-18 to complete the one-point win.
Portland shot 48% from the field and 33% from 3-point range, while Sacramento finished 49-94 overall and 6-19 from beyond the arc. The Trail Blazers capitalized on key possessions in overtime despite turnovers and foul trouble.
The teams will meet again Saturday in Sacramento to complete their home-and-home series, with Portland aiming to extend its winning streak and Sacramento seeking its first consecutive victories of the season.
