Portland Trail Blazers vs London Lions 12 October 2026 Prediction

Exhibition games between NBA and European clubs are rare. The London Lions will become the first British club to face an NBA team when they play the Portland Trail Blazers. Lions manager Tautvydas Sabonis is also visiting the city where his father, Arvydas, played. London faces a difficult matchup against Ja Morant, Damian Lillard, and Deni Avdija.

Portland's Offense Has Improved

After several disappointing seasons, Portland strengthened its backcourt by pairing Lillard with Morant. Morant had a quiet debut in the 123-118 preseason win over Golden State, but Lillard made an immediate impact. He and Avdija combined for 38 points in the Trail Blazers' first preseason victory. Portland manager Mike Nori was not too concerned about Morant's performance:

"I think he was just rushing. It's about timing. When he was playing at his best at the highest level, which wasn't that long ago, he spent 52% of his time in the paint. He got there in this game, but it didn't produce the results we wanted," Nori said of Morant's debut.

Portland relied on its defense last season, while its offense depended heavily on Avdija. The Trail Blazers enter the 2026-27 regular season with three scoring threats, though the new roster may need time to develop the cohesion it had under Tiago Splitter.

Portland Trail Blazers Predicted Lineup: Lillard, Morant; Camara, Avdija; Clingan

Out: Sharpe (injury)

Manager: Mike Nori

London Lions Face an NBA Team

This is the biggest game in the Lions' history, and Sabonis's team will be motivated to compete. Still, the gap between the rosters is substantial. London plays in the EuroCup, not the EuroLeague. The Lions beat Spain's Tenerife 89-77 in EuroCup play last week. They may be able to slow the pace early, but sustaining that approach for four quarters against Portland's scorers will be difficult.

London Lions Predicted Lineup: Phillip, Soluade; Williams, Scott; Kennedy

Out: None

Manager: Tautvydas Sabonis

Portland Trail Blazers vs London Lions Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers Handicap -28.5

Main prediction: Portland has a clear advantage in talent, size, and depth. Even if Morant and Lillard play limited minutes, they could help the Trail Blazers build a large lead. London is unlikely to keep pace with Portland's offense over a full game. The pick is Portland Trail Blazers -28.5.

Total points prediction: With no standings at stake, both teams may play more freely. Portland scored 123 points in its preseason opener against Golden State, while London has scored consistently in European competition. The additional pick is over 218.5 total points.