Ex-NBA Star Gilbert Arenas Praises Deni Avdija, Questions Lillard and Morant

Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas believes that if Damian Lillard or Ja Morant had a season comparable to Deni Avdija's, they would face significant criticism. Arenas argued on his podcast that Avdija's performance, which reportedly included averaging 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists, and led to him being named one of ESPN's top 30 players and an All-Star, should place him ahead of stars like Lillard and Morant. He suggested that Lillard would be considered 'washed' for similar statistics, implying Avdija is the weak link in Portland's current setup. However, this perspective was challenged by former player Baron Davis, who contended that new additions should build around Avdija, viewing him as the key to success and a player capable of closing out games. Davis asserted that players like Morant should focus on elevating their teammates, as Avdija does, to become better players themselves. Host Jossiah Johnson questioned Arenas's take, noting that Avdija's skills are not easily replicated. The discussion occurred following Avdija's strong preseason debut for Portland, where he scored 23 points in 21 minutes, shooting 9 of 13 from the field.