Arenas Calls Avdija Weakest Link on New Trail Blazers
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas controversially stated that Israeli player Deni Avdija is the "weakest link" on the new Portland Trail Blazers team. Arenas made the comments on his podcast, "Gil's Arena," sparking debate with fellow panelists, including former player Baron Davis. Davis defended Avdija, calling him "the guy" and suggesting he should be developed into an All-Star. Arenas later conceded Avdija's free-throw ability could be crucial for the team.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas called Deni Avdija the "weakest link" on the new Portland Trail Blazers.
- Arenas made the controversial statement on his podcast, "Gil's Arena," during a discussion about the team.
- Fellow panelist Baron Davis strongly disagreed, repeatedly calling Avdija "the guy" and a key player.
- Davis argued Avdija should be developed into an All-Star to support teammates Lillard and Morant.
- Arenas later acknowledged Avdija's free-throw shooting as a potentially key offensive asset for the team.
Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas controversially labeled Israeli player Deni Avdija as the "weakest link" among the new Portland Trail Blazers' core players during a discussion on his podcast, "Gil's Arena." Arenas argued that Avdija's previous season performance would have drawn boos if it were from players like Damian Lillard or Ja Morant, suggesting Avdija would be the weak link in the context of the team's overall dynamics. This assertion came despite Avdija scoring 23 points to lead Portland to a preseason victory over Golden State shortly after the podcast aired.
The panel, which included former player Baron Davis, was surprised by Arenas's assessment. Davis strongly disagreed, repeatedly stating, "Avdija is the guy." He suggested Avdija should be pushed to become an All-Star, as his success would alleviate pressure on Lillard and Morant, allowing them to return to their top form. Davis emphasized that Avdija has the potential to be the team's clutch player, a role he believes was missing for teams like Memphis when Morant played there.
Despite the initial disagreement, the panel later shifted to praising Avdija's abilities. Arenas himself acknowledged that Avdija's high free-throw shooting percentage could be key for Morant and Lillard, calling him a "magnet" to the free-throw line and suggesting he should be given the ball early in games.
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