Israeli NBA Player Deni Avdija Touted as Ideal Teammate for Luka Dončić

A sports journalist has identified Israeli NBA player Deni Avdija as the perfect "second star" to play alongside Luka Dončić on the Los Angeles Lakers. Nacho Losilla of DAZN, who covers the NBA, included Avdija in his ideal starting five for a hypothetical Lakers team built around Dončić. Losilla praised Avdija's physicality, transition play, size, and ability to draw fouls, suggesting that a pairing with Dončić would overwhelm opponents. He also highlighted Avdija's defensive prowess and versatility in pick-and-roll situations, noting that Avdija could either initiate plays or finish them, and even allow Dončić to rest on offense by taking over playmaking duties.

Losilla described Avdija as "the current star that best fits playing alongside Luka," even earning the nickname "Mini Giannis." While acknowledging the unlikelihood of such a trade or team-up due to the complexities involved, Losilla emphasized Avdija's exceptional fit with Dončić's playstyle. Avdija's strong performance last season with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he was a key player in their playoff run, has significantly boosted his profile across the league.

The article also mentions that Avdija and the Trail Blazers will begin their 2026-27 season on October 22nd at 5:00 AM against the Phoenix Suns, with the game broadcast on Sports Channel.