Morant, Lillard Lead Portland to 124-83 Opening Win

Ja Morant started alongside Damian Lillard in the Portland Trail Blazers’ season opener, helping lead the team to a 124-83 win over the Phoenix Suns on October 21. Morant had 14 points, eight assists, five rebounds and three steals in 23 minutes, while Lillard scored 25 points and added six assists. The result settled the opening-night lineup question on the court, after conflicting reports before the game about whether Morant would start or come off the bench. Chris Haynes reported that Morant would join Lillard in the starting backcourt. An earlier report attributed to Marc J. Spears said Morant was expected to begin as a reserve. Portland ultimately started both guards. The other Portland starters were Toumani Camara, Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan. Jrue Holiday and Scoot Henderson came off the bench. Coach Micah Nori said he valued the lineup’s flexibility and described Morant as a facilitator who could push the pace and serve as a secondary scorer alongside Lillard. Portland took control early, opening the game with a 21-0 run and building a lead of as many as 52 points, according to the game account. The Trail Blazers’ margin fell short of the franchise’s 48-point...