The Trail Blazers return to Portland Sunday night for a matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but they might be doing so without one of their key contributors. Deni Avdija is officially listed as questionable with a low back strain, putting his status for the game in doubt just hours before tipoff.
Avdija was on the floor for Portland’s last outing - a tough road loss to the Knicks - and while he logged minutes in that game, the back issue has clearly lingered enough to land him on the injury report. The timing couldn’t be more delicate.
Sunday also marks the announcement of All-Star reserves, and Avdija is hoping to hear his name called for the first time in his career. If selected, it would be a well-earned nod for a player who’s steadily elevated his game this season, particularly on a Blazers squad that’s leaned on his versatility.
He’s not the only name on Portland’s injury list. Jrue Holiday is out due to personal reasons, while Robert Williams III is questionable as he continues to manage a left knee injury.
Blake Wesley is also listed as questionable with a right foot fracture. That’s a lot of uncertainty for a team trying to find its rhythm after a road trip.
On the other side, Cleveland’s dealing with injury issues of their own. Both Evan Mobley and Darius Garland remain sidelined, and Craig Porter Jr. is questionable with left knee soreness.
The Cavs have had to adjust on the fly, especially after a recent trade that sent De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento in a multi-team deal that brought Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder to Cleveland. It’s a move that adds depth, but the Cavs are still navigating a short-handed rotation.
There’s also the matter of momentum. Teams often struggle in their first game back home after an East Coast swing - it’s a real thing, and it’s as much mental as it is physical. The Blazers will need to shake off any travel fatigue quickly, especially against a Cavs team that, despite being shorthanded, has shown it can stay competitive.
Tipoff is set for 9:00 p.m. ET in Portland.
Whether Avdija suits up or not could have a real impact on how this one plays out. His presence brings a level of two-way stability the Blazers have come to rely on, especially with other key players uncertain.
Keep an eye on the injury report leading up to game time - Portland fans will be hoping their rising star is good to go.