Deni Avdija Named Portland's Top Offensive Option Ahead of Morant and Lillard

Portland Trail Blazers are gearing up for the upcoming NBA season with high expectations following the addition of Ja Morant and the return of Damian Lillard from injury. Alongside these two stars, Deni Avdija arrives fresh off a career-best season, and the trio is expected to lead the team's offense. "Sports Illustrated" ranked the three players in order of offensive priority for Portland, placing Avdija first. The publication emphasized that despite Morant and Lillard joining the team, Avdija "must still be the number one option," deserving full credit for his outstanding All-Star season.

Avdija posted averages of 24.2 points and 6.7 assists per game last season, marking his first All-Star selection. Morant is described as the team's primary playmaker, with his ability to penetrate the paint expected to be a key offensive element. Morant’s career averages stand at 22.4 points and 7.4 assists per game, and his return to health and new start in Portland could help him regain his All-Star form.

Lillard was ranked third but is noted for not needing to be the primary scorer constantly. Nevertheless, "Sports Illustrated" believes he can still deliver 25 to 30 point games, recalling his 32.2 points per game average in the 2022/23 season, his last with Portland before moving to Milwaukee. The article concludes by highlighting Avdija’s challenge: if he can balance his previous role with the new opportunity to play alongside Lillard and Morant, it could mark a significant next step in his development as a player.