Danny Avdija Drafted 23rd in Hypothetical NBA All-Star Draft

NBA writers Yossi Gozlan, Sam Quinn, and John Gonzales held a theoretical draft to build a new NBA franchise, selecting players based on their potential to lead a new team. Quinn selected Israeli player Danny Avdija as the 23rd overall pick. Quinn acknowledged that his choice might seem questionable in hindsight due to the Portland Trail Blazers' recent team decisions but stated his belief in Avdija's value. He criticized Portland's acquisition of Ja Morant, arguing that the team overlooked their best player, Avdija, who is a 25-year-old All-Star on a favorable contract. Quinn expressed frustration that Avdija might be wasted alongside Morant and indicated his willingness to renegotiate and extend Avdija's contract to fit team salary cap needs, a move he believes Portland has not pursued.

Gozlan responded, expressing uncertainty about Avdija's ultimate potential and whether he would be selected in the next round. While acknowledging Avdija as a very good player who was significant to the Blazers' wins last season, Gozlan suggested that Avdija might be nearing his ceiling. He noted that other younger players on his list have more developmental potential, and some veteran players are at a level he doubts Avdija will reach. Gozlan concluded that he might not be seeing Avdija's full capabilities.

The draft list included Victor Wembanyama at first overall, followed by Cooper Flagg, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and others, with Avdija ultimately selected 23rd. The list also featured prominent players like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Jayson Tatum, and Giannis Antetokounmpo.