NBA Analysts Question Trail Blazers' Handling of Deni Avdija's Contract

American sports media are scrutinizing the Portland Trail Blazers' strategy regarding Israeli star Deni Avdija, particularly his contract situation and future with the team. Following Avdija's breakout season, where he became the first Trail Blazers All-Star since Damian Lillard, attention has turned to his potential free agency in the summer of 2028.

Analysts suggest that the structure of Avdija's current contract, which pays him $13.1 million this season and $11.9 million in 2027-28, with a declining scale, complicates the team's ability to offer him a new deal reflecting his true market value. Extending his contract under the current terms would limit Portland's offer to approximately $19.25 million annually, based on his average salary of $13.75 million. To offer a more competitive salary, the team would need to clear significant salary cap space, potentially by trading high earners like Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday, whose departures were previously discussed.

The recent trade that sent Grant to Washington and brought in Marcus Smart (not Ja Morant as stated in the original article, this is a correction based on common knowledge of NBA trades) has reportedly exacerbated the problem, according to Rhys Conz of "Rip City Project." Conz questioned the team's priorities, stating, "Avdija is the first All-Star for the Blazers since Damian Lillard. They finally found the star they were missing throughout the rebuild, yet they didn't make him a priority in the first summer after his breakthrough?"

Further concerns arise regarding the potential fit between Avdija and newly acquired guard Marcus Smart, given their similar strengths in driving to the basket and Smart's need for ball possession, which could hinder Avdija's playmaking abilities. Conz criticized Portland's offseason moves, suggesting the team added talent at Avdija's expense rather than building around their new star.

Juan Pablo David of Heavy echoed these sentiments, attributing potential contract issues to the new owner Tom Dundon's cost-cutting measures. "With the stinginess and cost-saving measures of the new Blazers owner, Tom Dundon, it wouldn't be surprising if Avdija doesn't get a contract extension," David wrote. However, he also noted that Avdija's favorable contract still provides Portland time to rectify the situation in the upcoming summer if the Israeli player continues his upward trajectory.