Damian Lillard has been shut down for the season and the Portland Trail Blazers appear in disarray.
Yet, Portland is still part of the chase for a play-in berth as the club enters Wednesday’s home game against the San Antonio Spurs.
The Spurs also are part of the mix for that play-in spot. The New Orleans Pelicans lead the Spurs by two games and the Trail Blazers by 2 1/2 for the final play-in berth.
Portland finally did the expected and ruled six-time All-Star Lillard out for the remainder of the season due to his abdominal injury. He last played on Dec. 31.
The Blazers made it clear protecting Lillard’s future was more important than hastening his return.
“I think it’s good for the team to just have the answer that he won’t be back,” Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said prior to Monday’s 119-115 win over the host Detroit Pistons. “But I’m happy and encouraged about where he is in the process. He’s feeling good, looking good, actually. I’ve seen him a lot, kind of working out.
“I’m…