NBA Ranks Israeli Star Deni Avdija 24th Among Top Players for Upcoming Season

As preparations for the new NBA season begin in the United States, Israeli player Deni Avdija has been recognized as a leading figure for the Portland Trail Blazers. Following a breakout 2025/26 season where he solidified his status as an NBA star, Avdija is set to lead Portland alongside notable players like Damian Lillard and Ja Morant.

Avdija earned a remarkable 24th place ranking in a recent list by Yardbarker, which evaluated the top 100 NBA players ahead of the new season. The ranking highlighted his impressive averages of 24.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, as well as his first All-Star selection. The list noted that while it remains to be seen if Avdija's talent will translate into team victories at the highest level, his rise last season cannot be ignored.

Ahead of Avdija in the rankings were LeBron James (21st), Scotty Barnes (22nd), and Jalen Williams (23rd). Other notable players ranked just below him include OG Anunoby (25th), Jalen Johnson (26th), Austin Reaves (27th), and Jayson Thompson (28th). The full top 100 list features many prominent NBA stars, reflecting the competitive landscape Avdija is entering.

This ranking underscores Avdija's growing reputation in the NBA and sets expectations for his role as a key player for Portland in the upcoming season.