Israeli NBA Player Deni Avdija Ranked Among Trail Blazers' Best Contracts

Israeli basketball player Deni Avdija has been surprisingly ranked as having one of the best contracts on the Portland Trail Blazers, according to a recent analysis by "Sports Illustrated." Despite not being a rookie, Avdija's current salary of $13,125,000 places him eighth among the team's highest earners for the upcoming season, a position considered exceptionally favorable given his performance and potential.

The analysis highlights Avdija's contract as potentially the best non-rookie deal on the team. "Sports Illustrated" suggested that Avdija's emergence and potential All-Star status mean he is likely earning significantly less than his future value once his current contract expires. The report noted that his salary is less than that of some rookies and other players like Phoenix's Luke Kennard.

Last year, Avdija was ranked fourth in terms of contract value on the team. This year's ranking places him behind top earners like Ja Morant and Jrue Holiday, but ahead of established players such as Damian Lillard, whose salary is listed at $13,398,000, and other key players like Toumani Camara and Robert Williams.

Other players mentioned as having favorable contracts include Camara, recognized for his defensive contributions, and Donovan Clingan, who is still on a rookie contract. Robert Williams was also noted as having a good deal in his role as backup center. The report categorized the remaining players, excluding the bottom five earners, as having less advantageous contracts.