The New Jersey Nets look to avoid a season-high third straight loss and win for the first time in Portland in nearly four years when they meet the Trail Blazers on Wednesday night.

New Jersey has been inconsistent this season, alternating wins and losses in its first six games before putting together back-to-back victories. Since those consecutive wins, however, the Nets (5-5) have dropped two straight.

They were routed 86-68 at home by Portland (5-7) on Saturday and opened a four-game road trip with a 99-87 defeat to Seattle on Monday night. New Jersey has lost three straight in Portland since a 93-86 win on Nov. 30, 2002, and has dropped five of the last seven overall meetings.

The Sonics trailed for all but two possessions of the first three periods Monday, but outscored the Nets 33-17 in the final quarter.

``It happens. We need to learn from it,'' coach Lawrence Frank said. ``We didn't put together stops. It starts there and we can analyze the offensive possessions as well, but to win the game, home or on the road, you have to put together consecutive stops in the fourth quarter.''

Vince Carter had 27 points to lead New Jersey, but also had eight of the team's season high-tying 24 turnovers.

``I had a couple of costly turnovers that really hurt us,'' said Carter, who leads the Nets with 27.5 points per game. ``We just have to step up and find a way to win. I'm just going to continue to be aggressive, get better and take what I can get.''

Richard Jefferson, third on team in scoring with 15.0 points per contest, returned after missing five games with a sprained left ankle and finished with nine points in 26 minutes.

``I missed 10 days, and before that I didn't practice that much,'' he said. ``I feel fine. I'm ready to go on Wednesday.''

Portland's win in New Jersey on Saturday snapped a four-game skid, but the Blazers returned to their losing ways with a 107-98 home defeat to San Antonio on Monday.

Zach Randolph had 23 points - 19 in the first half - but the Blazer lost a 10-point, second-half lead in dropping their second straight at home. Portland won its first three games at the Rose Garden.

The Blazers had a 56-48 advantage at halftime Monday and later went on a 7-0 run to lead 70-60, but the Spurs had a 14-2 spurt to go ahead 74-72.

``When we have a team down we have to stay on them,'' said guard Jarret Jack, who had 12 points and five assists.

New Jersey concludes its trip with matchups against Phoenix and the Los Angeles Lakers, while Portland is in a stretch of playing six of seven games at home.