CJ McCollum played his first game in Portland since the Blazers sent him to New Orleans at the trade deadline. The veteran guard spent nine seasons with the Blazers before he got traded to the Pelicans.
”I got off to a good start and then I just got tired,” McCollum said, via NBA.com. “I almost air-balled a free throw. I was just physically and mentally drained.”
McCollum received a 90-second standing ovation in his first visit to Portland, and then scored 25 points to help the Pelicans to the win over the Trail Blazers 117-107 Wednesday night.
McCollum made his mark on Portland’s record books, ranking fifth all-time in scoring (10,710 points), second in 3-pointers made and eighth in assists. He was overwhelmed by the love he received from the Rip City faithful.
”It was cool out there to see the love,” McCollum said after the game. ”The standing ovation, it was special to be part of it. Myself, my family, we will probably never forget it.”
The Blazers had previously made a tribute video for McCollum which they shared via their social media accounts.
“I tried to focus on a game but there’s a lot going on. You can’t really explain, it takes your energy away because it’s emotional. I’m glad I was able to go through it and help my team tonight but I’m looking forward to turning the page.”
McCollum finished with 25 points on an efficient 9-of-16 from the field, while he made 3-of-6 threes from beyond the arc. He helped the Pelicans remain ahead in the play-in race keeping the 9th seed.
If the Pelicans remained in the no.9 will face either the Lakers or the Spurs at home in the first game of the play-in tournament.
Former Blazer Larry Nance Jr. also made his return to Portland, where he played 37 games before being included in the McCollum deal. He scored eight points and pulled down four rebounds in 22 minutes off the Pelicans bench.
Comments