Will the Blazers Win the Northwest Division?

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Andrew R Tonry, GoLocalPDX Contributor

It seemed like a sure thing. In the race for the Northwest Division crown, the Blazers were in the driver's seat.

But after building a healthy lead over the Thunder while Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant were injured, Portland's grasp is beginning to appear tenuous.

In short: the Blazers are slumping and Oklahoma City are streaking--even with Durant once again out of the lineup.

Portland's lead could shrink further, as they host the Thunder on Friday. Either way, the race appears as if it could be headed towards a photo-finish.

Each team has certain breaks in their remaining schedule. For instance, the Blazers will play a slightly weaker class of opponents, but Oklahoma City have more games at home.

Perhaps more than anything, though, is that the Thunder have been getting better as the season wears on while the Blazers have been getting rattled as of late. Since January 1st Portland, at 10-and-12, have a losing record, while Oklahoma City, at 16-and-8, have won twice as many games as they've lost.

For further comparison, check out this guide: