Israeli Player Deni Avdija Nominated for NBA Player of the Week

Avdija, of the Portland Trail Blazers, was cited for a strong week as his team opened the 2026-27 season 6-2. He averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 7.2 assists, and according to Walla he nearly posted a triple-double against the Lakers with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 11 assists.

The Trail Blazers also lost two straight games during the nomination period, including one to Dončić’s Lakers and another to the San Antonio Spurs by 125-103. Avdija scored 15 points and had 4 rebounds against the Spurs, while Walla said he also had 8 turnovers against the Lakers.

The Western Conference award went to Dončić of the Lakers, who was credited with four straight wins and averages of 45 points, 7 rebounds and 8.3 assists. Brunson of the New York Knicks won the Eastern Conference award after a 3-0 week and averages of 27.7 points and 6.3 assists.