Deni Avdija
39Breakdown
Performance
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February 28, 2026
Not playing Saturday
Avdija (back) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Hornets.
Analysis
It'll be the third missed game in a row for Avdija as he continues to manage a lower-back injury, and his next chance to play will be the second leg of the Trail Blazers' back-to-back set against the Hawks on Sunday. Kris Murray, Sidy Cissoko (illness) and Jerami Grant should continue to operate in elevated roles for as long as Avdija is sidelined.
February 27, 2026
Unlikely to play Saturday
Avdija (back) is listed as doubtful for Saturday's game against the Hornets.
Analysis
Avdija is likely to miss a third consecutive contest while managing a lower-back injury. If the star forward is ultimately ruled out for the front end of this back-to-back set, Kris Murray, Sidy Cissoko and Jerami Grant would likely continue to soak up additional minutes.
February 25, 2026
Out again Thursday
Avdija (back) will remain on the inactive list for Thursday's game in Chicago.
Analysis
Thursday will mark Avdija's second straight game on the sidelines, and it's not a great sign that he continues to get ruled out 24 hours in advance of tipoff. Kris Murray, Sidy Cissoko and Matisse Thybulle will continue to pick up the slack in Avdija's absence.
February 24, 2026
Won't play Tuesday
Avdija (back) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against Minnesota.
Analysis
Avdija aggravated a nagging back injury in Sunday's contest, exiting less than a minute into the game, and he'll be sidelined Tuesday as a result. In his absence, Sidy Cissoko is a strong candidate to slide into the starting five. Avdija's next opportunity to return will come Thursday against Chicago.
February 23, 2026
Won't return Sunday
Avdija (back) won't return to Sunday's game against the Suns.
Analysis
Avdija aggravated a preexisting back injury less than a minute into Sunday's game and will not return. Scoot Henderson, Jerami Grant and Sidy Cissoko are candidates for increased minutes with Avdija sidelined. His status for Tuesday's game against the Timberwolves is now in question.
February 23, 2026
Heads to locker room Sunday
Avdija headed to the locker room during Sunday's game against the Suns after appearing to tweak his back, Kellan Olson of ArizonaSports.com reports.
Analysis
Avdija, who came into the game nursing a back injury, appeared to aggravate the injury less than a minute into the game before exiting for the locker room. If he is unable to return, Scoot Henderson, Jerami Grant and Sidy Cissoko could see extra minutes.
February 23, 2026
Available to play
Avdija (back) is available for Sunday's game in Phoenix.
Analysis
Avdija will push through the pain with the back issue and make himself available for Sunday's game. Portland's All-Star is averaging 25.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 2.2 triples per game this season.
