The Portland Trail Blazers have been navigating a challenging 2025-26 season, primarily due to the absence of several key players, including veteran guard Jrue Holiday. After participating in the first 12 games of the season, Holiday has been sidelined since November 14 due to a calf injury sustained during a match against the Houston Rockets. His absence has been felt, as he is regarded as one of the top perimeter defenders in the league, in addition to contributing significantly to the team’s offense.
Despite Holiday’s injury, the Blazers have managed to maintain their competitive edge, largely thanks to the impressive performance of forward Deni Avdija. Holiday, a two-time All-Star, was averaging 16.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game, marking his highest scoring average since the 2023 All-Star campaign with the Milwaukee Bucks.
In a positive turn of events, the Trail Blazers have listed Holiday as Probable ahead of their matchup against the New York Knicks tonight, signaling potential return to action. Notably, sports journalist Marc Stein reported that Holiday’s status was updated just hours before the game, providing a hopeful boost for the Blazers as they continue to build momentum into the new year.
If Holiday does take the court, it will mark his first NBA game in nearly two months. While expectations should be tempered, as head coach Tiago Splitter has yet to clarify Holiday’s anticipated role, it is likely he will start off the bench to ease back into game shape.
The Blazers are undoubtedly a stronger team with Holiday in the lineup, which poses a significant challenge for the struggling Knicks. With Holiday’s potential return, Portland’s prospects for continuing their upward trajectory look promising as they aim to capitalize on their current momentum.