By Devan Cook

After a tough loss in Detroit Friday, the Trail Blazers don't even have a full 24 hours to shake it off before matching up against the Pacers.

The game in Detroit was without star Brandon Roy, who will also miss Saturday's game due to a family emergency. His absence was felt, the rest of the team struggled profusely without his leadership. LaMarcus Aldridge did come through for the team, scoring 22 points against the Pistons, but his sole performance was not enough to carry the victory.

On the Pacers end, they have their own star absence to deal with, as Jermaine O'Neal is out with injury. However, his absence did not stop the team from taking the Knicks on Tuesday. The team coming off a win also has the home court advantage, and the advantage of a full 3 days rest before playing Portland.

The Pacers also beat Portland at home the last time the two met; in Portland on November 28th. But Portland holds the better record of the two teams, them at 28-21, the Pacers at 20-30. The Pacers are currently trying to improve their record to try to squeak into the final playoff spot in the East though, so they'll be hungry for the victory.

After the loss the the Pistons, Portland needs to regroup as a team and make a game plan to fill Roy's shoes in order to take Indiana. Aldridge made a great effort last game, and will have to again Saturday. Normally Roy would have matched up with Danny Granger, so it will be Jarrett Jack's responsibility as the starting line-up fill-in to maintain a strong defense on the Pacers shooting guard.

The game airs locally at 4pm on KGW. Dont miss it!