Win One for Nate.

Last night's win over the Sonics was indeed a nice, solid win. There were few mistakes and the Blazers did a great job from start to finish. They held their own in a very fast paced game.

What makes this win significant to me is the mere fact that the team played not only to win, but to win for Nate. They played with a conviction and desire that made a very loud statement as to how the guys have come to respect Nate McMillan. This is a very good sign that the tide is turning in Portland. Even Zach, who has been on the receiving end of Nate's wrath more than I am sure he'd care to say, wanted to win the game for his coach.

When a team has a healthy respect for their coach, there is no end to what good things can happen. I think there is a difference between "liking" the coach and respecting the coach. The Blazers "liked" Mo Cheeks, they respect Nate McMillan. Nate has taken the road of the parent, not the friend. It's the right way to go, no matter which way you look at it.

Congratulations Blazers! Good job.