Feb 20, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket during the second half against Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija (8) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

'Many People Think I Have Beef With Him' – Portland Trail Blazers Star Reveals the Truth About Competing Against LeBron James

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 10:20 AM ET

Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija is not the type to back down from anyone, even against a superstar of LeBron James’ ilk.

Avdija was recently asked about his perceived tension with James, maybe because of the on-court confrontations they had in the past that never escalated into fights, and the Portland Trail Blazers swingman shared his side of the story.

“Many people think I have beef with him. I greatly respect the man and the player, it’s part of the game and part of the fun. I don’t give it much importance, and hope he doesn’t either,” Avdija stated per HoopsHype via Ynet.

Portland Trail Blazers: Deni Avdija's Epic Triple-Double Draws 6-Word Reaction From Former Defensive Player of the Month Winner 6 Dec 30, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers small forward Deni Avdija (8) dribbles the ball past Philadelphia 76ers forward Guerschon Yabusele (28) during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

The Israeli international was one of the brightest spots for the Portland Trail Blazers last season, averaging 16.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists on 47.6 percent shooting from the field across 72 regular season appearances.

Deni Avdija reflects on his first full season with the Portland Trail Blazers

After spending the first four years of his NBA career with the Washington Wizards, Deni Avdija was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon, Carlton Carrington, and three future draft picks last summer, which surprised him.

Portland Trail Blazers: Deni Avdija's Epic Triple-Double Draws 6-Word Reaction From Former Defensive Player of the Month Winner 5 Jan 21, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija (8) dribbles the basketball past Miami Heat forward Duncan Robinson (55) during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

“The moment they traded me, it felt like a knife in the back,” Avdija said via Ynet. “I understand it’s business and part of this league, but I’m always loyal to the team and the people who worked with me.”

“Starting a new chapter is scary and exciting at the same time. There’s uncertainty where I’ll end up and if it will be the right situation for me. But I’m happy because I have the character and abilities to fit in anywhere with anyone. I found an amazing home in Portland. I’m excited to see what comes next,” he added.