The Portland Trail Blazers are witnessing the emergence of Deni Avdija as a promising star in the NBA. The versatile forward, who has made impressive strides since being drafted as the 9th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, is now a vital on-court leader for the Blazers. Avdija’s progress, from a tantalizing prospect in the Israeli league to a key player in the NBA, is truly remarkable.
Despite the team’s challenges with injuries and inconsistent play during the early part of the season, Avdija has been a bright spot, showcasing his potential to be a candidate for the All-Star discussions. His current contract is highly team-friendly, set to decrease in value until its expiration in 2028, which is an asset for the franchise.
To highlight the significance of his deal, the country’s estimated Mid-Level Exception will be less than what he will earn in the latter years of his contract, making him a bargain for the Blazers as he continues to develop into one of their most important pieces.
On the court, Avdija has proven to be invaluable, recently taking on the role of interim point guard due to a slew of backcourt injuries. Standing at 6’9″, he contributes across the board, averaging 25.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting an impressive 48.7% from the field. Additionally, he ranks highly among forwards in assist rate and points per shot attempt, showing his efficiency throughout this young season.
His presence significantly boosts the team’s performance; the Blazers have a +16.3 point differential per 100 possessions when Avdija is on the court. Moreover, they rank in the 99th percentile for effective field goal percentage during his time on the court. Avdija’s play has led him to be a candidate for the NBA Most Improved Player award, and his agility and skill in transition make him a dangerous offensive threat.
However, there is a complexity surrounding his contract situation. Signed by the Washington Wizards before his move to Portland, Avdija’s descending four-year, $55 million deal presents a dilemma for the Blazers regarding extending his contract before he potentially becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2028. The constraints tied to veteran extensions mean that he may only be offered a salary in the early-to-mid $20 million range, which could be inadequate considering his talent level.
The historical context of the franchise adds to the urgency surrounding Avdija’s future. The last All-Star to reach unrestricted free agency from the Blazers was LaMarcus Aldridge, who left for the Spurs in 2015, which still resonates with the fanbase. While Avdija has shown no indications of being dissatisfied in Portland, the team must remain cognizant of his motivations and the roster’s dynamics as they strategize moving forward.
In light of Avdija’s continued ascent, some analysts speculate that should he earn an All-Star spot, the upcoming February trade deadline could be an optimal time to consider a trade if the situation warrants it. Receiving teams would be acquiring a near All-Star talent at a below-market value, but the Blazers would likely seek significant return, including young players with upside and multiple first-round draft picks.
While the trade conversation could spark debate, it is largely speculative at this point. The prevailing thought is that Avdija will remain a cornerstone for the Blazers. The team has yet to express any signs of dissatisfaction with his growth, and ongoing discussions regarding his future are expected.
As the team anticipates Avdija’s continued development, there is hope among the Blazers’ organization and their supporters that they can successfully navigate the complexities of his contract and secure his talents for years to come as they aim for a brighter future in the competitive landscape of the Western Conference.