Heading in to Sunday, the Blazers’ magic number was one. Three scenarios would clinch a postseason berth: a win over Memphis or either Denver or Minnesota losing.
Two, nearly three, of the required results occurred!
As expected, Portland defeated Memphis by double-digits, making up for the embarrassing loss on March 28. Before that game ended, however, the Jazz punctually defeated the Timberwolves. Denver managed to overcome a 20-point deficit, though, for a crucial victory over Milwaukee.
The Blazers needed just one of the above situations. Even if Minnesota won, a Damian Lillard-led team wasn’t losing to the Grizzlies (and they didn’t).