Sam Perkins

For road underdogs in the NBA’s postseason, the common thought is that Game One is often one’s best opportunity at “stealing” a game needed to shift momentum in the opposite direction. It was of great irony, then, that with the Portland Trail Blazers a few possessions shy of doing so in the 1985 Western Conference First Round, Sam Perkins took the honor upon himself to sneak through the defensive backdoor unnoticed. Illustrating just a few of the reasons for his “Big Smooth” nickname during his first-ever postseason cameo, Perkins, recognizing Portland’s imposing double on his teammate, works a well-timed flash to the basket, freeing his path for a clutch, across-the-rim jam. The Dallas Mavericks, settled into just their franchise’s second playoff appearance, used Perkins’ poise to steer both a 15-point comeback and a double-overtime Game One victory at home on April 18, 1985. Finding the trust of his coaching staff earned through 53 minutes of play, the gifted, consistent big man excelled on the heightened stage with 26 points (on 9-of-16 shooting), 13 rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

Rookie Year

Top Shot Debut