Portland’s Improvements After the Deni Avdija Trade

Avdija is Still Adjusting to the Blazers’ System

Before the 2024-25 season, Deni played four seasons with the Washington Wizards. He was comfortable in that system, but the trade to Portland made him adjust to new coaches and teammates. The 6-foot-9 versatile forward knew he could thrive in the system, but it took him some time to shine.

Avdija’s stat line and performance were impressive in the NBA Cup game against the Sacramento Kings. He scored 20 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished out five assists. Additionally, Deni was effective on the defensive end, starting in place of Jerami Grant.

After starting slow, the Avdija trade did not look like it was panning out. Thankfully, the recent stretch has been impressive enough that people see the long-term fit with Portland. His versatility on both ends of the floor should be his biggest strength in a developing team. At only 23 years old, Deni has a bright future in Rip City.

“I feel like extra work at practice and days off, and times that I can go and shoot, I’ll do it. I think it’s just getting used to the play style, and keep shooting and believing in your shot,” Avdija said in a post-game interview.

Avdija’s Contract Fits Perfectly With the Blazers Rebuild

A big part of why the Avdija trade grade was high for many people for Portland was due to his contract. He is on a contract where the value descends as it goes on. With three more years on his deal after this season, Deni should be a bargain player for the Blazers.

Furthermore, Deni is not the type of player who will make demands about his role. This season has shown that he is willing to play any role, even if it is off the bench. Toumani Camara earned the starting power forward spot, making Deni the odd man in the starting lineup.

The Blazers rebuild is progressing, so a reliable and versatile wing like Avdija is valuable. Deni, along with Camara, Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Donovan Clingan is a fun core in the long term.

The Blazers Will Have More Opportunities for Avdija

The NBA trade market is still open, and people should expect Portland to make further moves. There is a chance they trade players by the February 2025 deadline like Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons. Both players are Rip City favorites, but they are the logical players to trade.

Avdija could benefit from a trade because he will take a spot in the starting lineup. He can produce like Grant on offense and be a ball-handler and playmaker like Simons. A defensive core of Avdija, Camara, and Clingan will also be superb for the Blazers. Expect Deni to keep producing because he continues to improve within Portland’s system.