Marcio Jose Sanchez/Associated Press
OAKLAND, Calif. — The Golden State Warriors and the Portland Trail Blazers are familiar opponents with disparate identities. And as they prepare for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals on Tuesday night, one franchise has everything that the other covets: the prestige and fulfillment that comes with a championship (or three).
The Blazers, who won their only N.B.A. title in 1977, have already cleared one hurdle by advancing past the conference semifinals for the first time in 19 years. Now, they have another huge opportunity in front of them — to put a dent in a dynasty.