Avdija's Double-Double Powers Trail Blazers to Dominant Season Opener

Translated & summarized from N12 by baba

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The Portland Trail Blazers, led by Israeli star Deni Avdija's double-double, opened their NBA season with a dominant 124-83 win over the Phoenix Suns. Avdija scored 18 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Damian Lillard added 25 points. The Trail Blazers established a significant early lead and maintained control throughout the game. They will next face the Sacramento Kings.

The story in 5 lines · by baba

Deni Avdija recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds in the Trail Blazers' 124-83 win.
Damian Lillard led Portland with 25 points in their season-opening victory over the Phoenix Suns.
The Trail Blazers established a 21-0 run and a 43-12 lead in the first quarter.
Jah Morant contributed 14 points and 8 assists in his debut for Portland.
Phoenix shot poorly, making only 36% of field goals and 19% of three-pointers.

Avdija's Double-Double Powers Trail Blazers to Dominant Season Opener — Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

The Portland Trail Blazers, featuring Israeli star Deni Avdija, launched their 2026-27 NBA season with a resounding 124-83 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Avdija recorded a double-double with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists in just 23 minutes of play, contributing to a dominant performance that saw Portland lead by as many as 52 points.

The "new Big 3" of Damian Lillard, Jah Morant, and Avdija showcased their synergy from the outset. The Trail Blazers established an early 21-0 run and ended the first quarter with a commanding 43-12 lead, marking their best opening quarter in franchise history. Lillard led all scorers with 25 points, while Morant added 14 points and 8 assists.

Avdija, who was initially a question mark due to an ankle injury, started the game and played a crucial role in the team's explosive start. He contributed to multiple scoring plays, including assists for three-pointers and scoring himself. His performance included 7-of-16 shooting from the field, 2-of-4 from three-point range, and 2-of-4 from the free-throw line.

The Suns struggled offensively, shooting just 36% from the field and 19% from beyond the arc. Devin Booker was the high scorer for Phoenix with 23 points, but the team's overall performance was lackluster, with more turnovers than assists. The Trail Blazers' bench also contributed significantly, with Toumani Camara scoring 18 points and Scoot Henderson adding 15.

Portland will look to carry this momentum into their next game on Saturday at 5:00 AM when they visit the Sacramento Kings.