Jha Morant Trade Raises Concerns Over Deni Avdija’s Role With Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers shook the NBA on June 29, 2026, by acquiring star guard Jha Morant in a major trade. However, American analysts Sam Vesney and Bryce Simon expressed doubts about the move, particularly regarding the future role of Israeli player Deni Avdija on the team.

Vesney criticized the trade, questioning why the Blazers would make such a move. He explained that team executive Tom Dundon aimed to bring in a marquee player without sacrificing young talents like Tommani Kamara, Donovan Klingen, Jaydon Sharp, and Avdija, who he believed would not be traded. Vesney also suggested that the Blazers might trade guard Jrue Holiday instead, whom he personally preferred over Morant.

Simon echoed these concerns, emphasizing that Avdija must retain ball-handling responsibilities to thrive. He warned against taking the ball away from Avdija, fearing the trade would reduce him to a secondary role similar to his time in Washington, where he played mostly off-ball and did not lead pick-and-roll plays. Simon acknowledged that while Avdija can play without the ball, the best scenario would allow him to handle the ball more frequently alongside other guards like Damian Lillard, Holiday, and Scott Henderson.

Simon concluded that Avdija would likely become the number two option behind Morant, which is acceptable if the first option is a true star. However, he stressed that Morant is not that kind of player and that Avdija needs to develop as a secondary star, not be relegated to a diminished role. The debate highlights the challenges the Blazers face integrating Morant while maximizing Avdija’s potential.

The trade has sparked significant discussion about team dynamics and player development as Portland prepares for the upcoming NBA season.