NBA Ranks Israeli Star Deni Avdija Among Top Small Forwards in Western Conference

Israeli NBA player Deni Avdija continues to gain recognition as a rising star ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Thunder Wire website, which covers the Oklahoma City Thunder, ranked the best starters in the Western Conference by position, placing Avdija fourth among small forwards. Only Kevin Durant (Houston), Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City), and Cooper Flagg (Dallas) were ranked higher. Avdija was ranked above notable players such as Lauri Markkanen (Utah), Brandon Ingram (Clippers), Dillon Brooks (Phoenix), Jimmy Butler (Golden State), and Jayden McDaniels (Minnesota).

Thunder Wire highlighted Avdija's breakout season, noting his averages of 24.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, which earned him his first All-Star selection. They praised his efficient scoring, physical play, and ability to draw fouls, calling his rise "one of the most unusual breakthroughs we've seen." Despite Portland's overall struggles, Avdija's unexpected ascent was described as a bright spot for the team.

Avdija's role in Portland is expected to grow further following the recent injury to Sheyden Sharp, the team's second-leading scorer last season, who tore his right knee meniscus and will miss up to six months. Sharp's absence leaves a significant share of shots and offensive responsibility open. However, Avdija will not bear the burden alone, as Damian Lillard is set to return after missing last season with an Achilles injury, and Ja Morant joined the team in the summer.

Portland now faces the challenge of rebuilding its offensive hierarchy around three ball-handling stars: Lillard, Morant, and Avdija. Before Sharp's injury, the team was already working on distributing shots among four key players. With Sharp sidelined, Avdija, who proved capable of handling a heavy offensive load last season, is expected to receive ample opportunities to solidify his status as a cornerstone of the Trail Blazers.