The game was extremely intense, with the Rockets playing more freely and openly. Francis took full control, constantly using his personal skills to tear through the Trail Blazers' defense, scoring or creating opportunities for his teammates.
But the Trail Blazers' defense was very solid. Little O'Neal and Ben Wallace played a crucial role in protecting the rim on the inside. The Trail Blazers' offense was inconsistent, but their defense consistently kept the Rockets at bay.
The teams battled fiercely until the very last moments of the game. Dell Curry's three-pointer and Charles Barkley's powerful plays gave the Trail Blazers the upper hand.
Then on defense, Francis exposed his youthful impulsiveness, eager to be the hero, with two missed shots and a turnover, completely squandering the team's advantage.
In the end, the Trail Blazers won 88-84, defeating the Rockets by a 4-point margin, despite the absence of three key players.
