Deni Avdija Enters New NBA Season with High Expectations and Stellar Preseason Form

Deni Avdija enters the new NBA season with higher expectations than ever following a breakout year that culminated in his first All-Star selection and an impressive postseason debut. The Israeli forward has looked exceptional in the preseason, averaging 19.3 points per game while shooting 70 percent from the field, 46.2 percent from beyond the arc, and 76.9 percent from the free-throw line, alongside 5.3 rebounds and 3 assists in just 21 minutes per night.

In The Ringer's latest rankings, Avdija was slotted at No. 27—a drop of five spots from June—with the rationale pointing to roster changes. "The addition of Ja Morant and the return of Dame Lillard could push him down the pecking order more than one might expect," the publication noted. However, new head coach Micah Nuri has publicly committed to maintaining a prominent offensive role for Avdija while revitalizing his defensive impact.

Optimism remains high outside of analytical power rankings, as highlighted on the Locked On Blazers podcast where host Mike Richman spoke with Bleacher Report's Dan Favale. Favale asserted that Avdija was on the cusp of an All-NBA selection last season and would have easily made the cut had he not suffered a knee injury in January. Based on preseason observations, Favale stated unequivocally that Avdija remains Portland's best player.

"He will continue to be underrated as long as he plays under this contract," Favale explained, addressing Avdija's current deal running through 2028. The analysts discussed how playing alongside elite guards like Lillard, Scoot Henderson, and Morant will actually benefit Avdija by giving him easier driving lanes and more catch-and-shoot opportunities after defenses collapse on his teammates.

YouTube analyst Matty Dubbs echoed similar sentiments in a recent breakdown, praising Avdija's elevated physical play and off-ball movement. "When defenses send double teams at Morant or Lillard and the ball finds a wide-open Deni, it is going to cause absolute chaos in NBA defenses this season," Dubbs remarked. With his stellar preseason efficiency and expanding offensive repertoire, analysts are increasingly asking whether Avdija can leap from an All-Star to earning All-NBA honors.