Deni Avdija didn't get to enjoy the Portland Trail Blazers win over his former team, the Washington Wizards, as he had to leave the court with a left quadriceps injury.
Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija left the game against his former team, the Washington Wizards, with a left quadriceps injury after playing only six minutes of the first quarter.
| Player of the Game | |
|
EFF
32
|
| Shaedon Sharpe | |
| Points | 36 |
| Accuracy | 13-26 |
| Rebounds | 8 |
| Assists | 5 |
He scored five points, having entered averaging 14.8 this season. He's currently listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets.
This injury follows a series of previous issues, including a right hand sprain and multiple ankle injuries earlier in the season.
This season, Avdija has played 56 games, averaging 14.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game.
His absence could affect the Trail Blazers' rotation, impacting players like Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons, who may need to step up in his potential absence.
For those following the betting implications of Avdija's injury, a guide to NBA sportsbooks can provide insights on how the Trail Blazers’ odds may shift in upcoming games.
"It's a little hard for me," Avdija told reporters at the Capital One Center.
"I wanted to finish the game, help my team. But at least we got the win. It was a scrappy game. But it's part of sports, so I'm gonna get better, get some treatment, and I'll be alright."
Avdija said he didn't approach the night with negative feelings toward the Wizards, since he only wanted to play well against his former team and didn't feel the need to prove anything.
"I don't think I was really stressed or trying to make a point. I just came with a mindset that I'm just going to be aggressive and play my game. I think I'm a good player. And for me, it's nothing to prove. I just wanted to have fun, embrace all the fans, embrace all the love, and that's about it."
That outpouring of love from Wizards fans left Avdija flabbergasted.
"I can't say thank you enough for all my fans to show up wherever I go," Avdija said.
"It can be the middle of the country. It can be the West Coast, East Coast, whatever. They show up. They show me love. I wish I could hug each and every one of them. But I can't. I just hope they're going to keep supporting and I play also for them."
Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said he knew Avdija wanted to play well against his former team and felt bad for him following the injury.
"This was a very emotional game for him," Billups said.
"He poured his heart and soul into this organization. His leaving was a little surprise, so I knew he'd be excited to return. He's still got a lot of friends over there. Built some long relationships. But he's with us now and he's happy to be here. We were going to have his back in this game and we wanted to win this game for Deni."
