The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 118-117, at Phoenix Suns Arena on Thursday.

There were 17 ties and 24 lead changes in this closely fought battle, with neither team leading by more than 10 points. In fact, the Suns scored the final four points at the free throw line in the closing 30 seconds to prevail. Phoenix ended up out-rebounding Portland on the offensive end, 10-1, outscoring them in second-chance points, 17-4. In addition, the Trail Blazers bench outscored the Suns bench, 31-14.

The Trail Blazers (41-30) were led by Damian Lillard, tallying 41 points, five rebounds and five assists on 15-of-23 from the field. C.J. McCollum had 27 points and six assists. Robert Covington generated 16 points, four rebounds and four assists but missed two critical free throws in the final seconds. Norman Powell accrued 12 points, four rebounds and three assists.

The Suns (49-21) were led by Chris Paul and his 26 points and seven assists on 11-of-14 from the field. Mikal Bridges compiled 21 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Devin Booker accumulated 18 points, five rebounds and two assists. Cameron Payne led the bench with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists on 8-of-12 shooting.

Phoenix will play their next game on Saturday when they travel to face the San Antonio Spurs. As for Portland, they play their final game of the season on Sunday versus the Denver Nuggets.