(Portland, OR)  --  Like a kid on Christmas.  That's how Hassan Whiteside told the Oregonian less how he feels before the regular season tips off.  Well, he doesn't have to wait anymore.  The Trail Blazers will play tonight at Moda Center against the Denver Nuggets in their first of 82 as they begin their pursuit of the Larry O'Brien Trophy.  The Blazers will be in Sacramento Friday to face the Kings before visiting Dallas Sunday to tangle with the Mavs.