Deni Avdija Aims for All-Around Game in Upcoming NBA Season

Israeli forward Deni Avdija is setting a clear goal for the 2026-27 NBA season: to become a more complete player. Speaking during a training camp, Avdija discussed the significant offensive load he carried last season, which he acknowledged impacted his defensive performance. He also noted that a back injury further hindered him.

Avdija emphasized his desire to excel on both ends of the court, rather than choosing between offense and defense. "Ultimately, I'm trying to be a complete player on both sides of the court," he stated. "I want to be a good defensive player and continue to do what I do on offense. It doesn't have to hurt my defense."

He plans to improve his conditioning and compete on every possession, aiming to make a defensive leap this year. Avdija believes he has proven his ability to defend and make an impact, and his next step is to become a well-rounded player.

Regarding his shooting, Avdija addressed a dip in percentages last season, attributing it to increased dribbling and fatigue. He explained that he was often forced to take more difficult shots and develop new types of shots he hadn't previously used. Despite this, he expressed confidence in his shooting ability, stating, "I'm not afraid to shoot. I think I'm a good shooter, I have good technique, and I continue to work on my shot. I trust it."

Changes to the Portland roster, with more players capable of ball-handling and playmaking, are expected to create better scoring opportunities for Avdija. He anticipates receiving more catch-and-shoot situations, which he finds more efficient than creating off the dribble. Coach Mike Nurse has also expressed a desire for Avdija to be more impactful defensively, a goal the player has embraced as his next step.