
Deni Avdija, the 6-foot-9 Israeli forward known for his team-centric approach to basketball, has officially traded his Washington Wizards jersey for a Portland Trail Blazers one. Avdija, apparently as surprised by the trade as the fans, recounted the moment he was notified—a late-night international bombshell that woke him up. "I was in Israel, it was 2 a.m., woke up, they let me know, Woj bomb thing," Avdija told KOIN. The overnight news kept him from getting any more sleep that night.
During his introductory press conference, a well-rested Avdija shared his feelings on the transition, "I was a little shocked, it's tough to leave home, but I'm excited to start a new chapter and really take this organization to the next level," he mentioned to KGW. The new chapter comes on the heels of what was his best season with the Wizards, having signed a team-friendly deal just last October. The Wizards seemed content with his development since drafting him ninth overall in the 2020 NBA draft, as reported by OregonLive.
Avdija's incorporation into the Blazers' lineup is crucial, especially considering his much-needed 3-point prowess, where he ranked 20th across all small forwards in 3-point percentage. His shooting percentages improved dramatically after dedicating an offseason to the mental aspects of the game. "I really worked on the mental side of shooting and really understand that I am a good shooter, and I really worked a whole summer focusing," he explained during the KGW interview. All signs point to him stepping into the Blazers' starting small forward spot, a position left open by the departure of Malcolm Brogdon.
On the court, Avdija described his game as "team friendly," a perspective that might be just what the Blazers need after a trade that came as quick as a fast break. "I'm always making the right play, trying to make the right play as much as I can. I'm very team friendly. I want to do the best I can to make them be better on the court," Avdija outlined his approach in the media session, as noted by KGW. With eyes on the upcoming season, the Blazers—and their fans—are undoubtedly eager to see how this unexpected trade shapes the trajectory of the team.