Trail Blazers vs. Suns Preview: Avdija’s Absence Looms as Phoenix Looks to Stay Hot
The Portland Trail Blazers are in the middle of a rough stretch, and things don’t get any easier as they host the surging Phoenix Suns in a Western Conference clash Tuesday night at 8 p.m. Pacific.
Phoenix has had Portland’s number lately, winning six of the last nine meetings, including a convincing 127-110 victory back in November. And while the Suns will be without All-Star Devin Booker, they’re still rolling thanks to breakout performances across the roster.
Phoenix Rising, Even Without Booker
The Suns are navigating Booker’s ankle injury with surprising ease. Their recent 3-1 homestand included wins over the Nets, Pistons, and Cavaliers before running into a buzzsaw against the Clippers. But even in that loss, the Suns’ identity was clear: they’re deep, disciplined, and dangerous.
Dillon Brooks, Collin Gillespie, and Mark Williams have stepped up in a big way. Brooks in particular is making a strong case for Most Improved Player honors.
The former Oregon Duck has evolved beyond his defensive specialist label, now averaging a career-high 20.5 points per game. He’s still the agitator fans love to hate-but he’s also become one of Phoenix’s most reliable scoring options.
That All-Star nod may have gone to LeBron James, but Brooks’ impact this season is undeniable.
Gillespie, meanwhile, continues to turn heads. He gave Portland fits in their last meeting and is averaging 13.5 points, 4.1 boards, 4.7 assists, 2.4 deflections, and 1.7 steals per game.
His all-around game has some fans drawing comparisons to Suns legend Steve Nash. That’s lofty praise, but Gillespie’s blend of court vision, hustle, and shot-making has been a revelation for Phoenix.
Portland’s Injury Woes Continue
For Portland, the story has been injuries-and lots of them. The Blazers have dropped five straight, and with Deni Avdija nursing a back injury, the team looks noticeably out of sync.
When Avdija is healthy, he’s been the engine of this squad, averaging 25.5 points and 6.7 assists per game while playing a key leadership role. But when he’s sidelined or limited, the Blazers struggle to find rhythm on either end of the floor.
Avdija’s absence was felt in Sunday’s loss to Cleveland, but even from the bench, his presence was notable. Cameras caught him in huddles, talking to teammates, staying engaged.
It’s a testament to how far he’s come-not just statistically, but as a leader. The coaching staff under interim head coach Tiago Splitter has empowered him, and that belief has sparked a feedback loop of confidence and production.
If Avdija can get right physically, Portland’s chances of snapping their skid improve dramatically.
Stat Leaders and Injury Updates
Here’s how the teams stack up statistically:
- Trail Blazers Points: Deni Avdija (25.5) Rebounds: Donovan Clingan (11.1) Assists: Avdija (6.7) Steals: Matisse Thybulle (2.5) Blocks: Mark Williams (1.4)
- Suns Points: Devin Booker (25.4) Rebounds: Mark Williams (8) Assists: Booker (6.2) Steals: Grayson Allen (1.5) Blocks: Williams (1)
Injury-wise, Portland is hurting. Damian Lillard, Kris Murray, and Thybulle are out.
Avdija and Scoot Henderson are both listed as doubtful. For Phoenix, Booker remains sidelined.
Scoot’s Birthday and Possible Return
Tuesday also marks Scoot Henderson’s 22nd birthday, and the third-year guard is itching to get back on the floor. He hasn’t played a game this season due to a nagging hamstring injury, but he told reporters he’s feeling “amazing” and ready to return soon. While he’s still doubtful for this one, his return could be a much-needed spark for a Blazers team looking for answers.
A New Shooter in Town
Portland made a quiet move that could pay dividends down the stretch. The team acquired Vít Krejčí from the Hawks in exchange for Duop Reath and a pair of second-round picks.
Krejčí brings a career 40.5% mark from three-exactly the kind of perimeter shooting Portland desperately needs. They currently own the league’s worst three-point percentage, so if Krejčí can stay on the floor defensively, he could carve out a role quickly.
There’s a chance he makes his Blazers debut Tuesday night.
Jersey Watch and Promotions
Portland will be rocking their Carpet City Edition jerseys, while the Suns suit up in their classic white Association uniforms. Looking ahead, the Blazers continue their homestand with back-to-back games against the Grizzlies on Friday and Saturday. Saturday’s game will also feature a Jrue Holiday Glasses giveaway for the first 5,000 fans through the gate.
Final Thoughts
This matchup is a study in contrast. Phoenix is peaking, even without their star, thanks to a deep roster and breakout performances from players like Brooks and Gillespie. Portland, meanwhile, is trying to hold things together through a rash of injuries, hoping Avdija and Henderson can return soon and stabilize the ship.
Tip-off is at 8 p.m. Pacific, and fans can catch the action on NBC, stream it via Peacock, or tune in through the Trail Blazers Audio Network.