They fought but didn't make it to the Memphis headquarters, the Blazers, losing 111-104, losing one of the most important games of the playoff battle in the West, as the Grizzlies are the team they are mostly chasing.

Blazers are three wins away from the Bears; they have to find pace and racing stability but are particularly unlucky as injuries have not stopped this season.

The expected line up for Blazers is Simons, McCollum, Ariza, Anthony, and Whiteside.

Collins, Hood, and Nurkic are inactive, while Hezonja and Lillard are definitely out.

The Pelicans, on the other hand, come from a home defeat with a 118-123 loss to Oklahoma in a match where they were judged to be in the second quarter, losing 28-37. However, their image is steadily improving, with three victories in a row.

Against Portland, Pelicans are the favorites for the win, mainly due to the Blazers' many and significant absences. For the Pelicans, only Miller and Williams will be absent.

The expected line up for Pelicans is Ball, Holiday, Ingram, Williamson, and Favors.

Miller is inactive, while Williams is definitely out.

Last decade, the two teams have faced each other at Portlant in 21 games. Blazers have 14 wins, while Pelicans have won 7 times.

Let's take a look at main and special odds markets offered at bet365 website :

• FullTime Result : 2.70(Blazers) - 1.50(Pelicans)
• Over/Under 238.5 points : 1.90 (Over) - 1.90 (Under)
• Race to 20 points: 1.71(Blazers) - 2.00(Pelicans)

*bet365 odds as offered at  22/02, 15:00CET (subject to change without prior notice) | 18+, T&Cs Apply, BeGambleAware.org

Trevor Ariza will have to stop Ingram. That is the most interestin match up of the game.

This small forward's battle will be crucial for the final winner.