The Portland Trail Blazers are hoping to halt a six-game slide when they host the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night - but whether All-Star forward Deni Avdija will be on the floor remains up in the air.
Avdija is officially listed as questionable with a low back strain, an issue that already kept him out of Portland’s last game. It’s a tough blow for a player in the midst of a breakout season - and for a Blazers team that could use every ounce of his production right now.
Averaging 25.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.7 assists while shooting 46.7% from the field, Avdija has been the engine behind much of Portland’s offensive rhythm this year. His absence would mark a third straight DNP, and the timing couldn’t be worse as the Blazers search for answers amid their recent struggles.
There is some good news, though: Scoot Henderson is probable to make his return. The rookie guard has been sidelined with a left hamstring tear but is expected to suit up for what could be his season debut. While it’s unclear how many minutes he’ll log or how close he is to full speed, just having Henderson back in the rotation adds a much-needed spark to a backcourt that’s been stretched thin.
Portland’s current six-game losing streak is a sharp contrast to the four-game win streak that preceded it - a run that ended with a dominant 127-110 win over the Miami Heat. But since then, the wheels have come off. Losses to the Celtics, Wizards, Knicks, and Suns have exposed a team still trying to find its identity, especially on the defensive end.
The hope is that reinforcements - even if limited - can help stop the bleeding. If Henderson plays and Avdija is cleared, the Blazers will have two of their most dynamic playmakers back on the floor.
Avdija, in particular, has been Portland’s most consistent offensive threat this season. His ability to create off the dribble, attack mismatches, and facilitate for others has made him a matchup nightmare.
And when he’s locked in defensively, he gives Portland a level of versatility that’s hard to replicate.
But the injury report remains crowded. Damian Lillard (left Achilles management), Kris Murray (lumbar strain), and Matisse Thybulle (right knee tendinopathy) are all out. The Grizzlies aren’t exactly healthy either - Ja Morant (UCL sprain), Santi Aldama (right knee), Brandon Clarke (calf), Zach Edey (ankle), Eric Gordon (not with team), Ty Jerome (calf), and Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe surgery recovery) are all sidelined, with Pippen Jr. listed as questionable.
So Friday’s game may come down to which team can better navigate the injury chaos - and whether Avdija suits up could be the swing factor. If he plays, the Blazers have a real shot to snap the skid. If not, the pressure will fall on Henderson and the supporting cast to carry the load.
Tip-off is set, but the lineup card is still in flux. One thing’s for sure: the Blazers need a win, and they need it fast.