Blazers Show Out at All-Star Weekend: Avdija Steps Into Spotlight, Lillard Still Making Noise
The Portland Trail Blazers made their presence felt in Los Angeles during NBA All-Star Weekend, and not just in the box scores. From Deni Avdija’s All-Star debut to Damian Lillard’s surprise return to the 3-Point Contest, Portland’s fingerprints were all over the league’s biggest midseason celebration.
Let’s break down what stood out - not just on the court, but in the conversations that gave us a glimpse into the mindset of two key figures in the Blazers’ present and future.
Deni Avdija: Embracing the Moment, Owning the Future
For the first time since Damian Lillard’s 2023 appearance, the Trail Blazers had a player in Sunday’s main event. That honor belonged to Deni Avdija, who’s not only making a name for himself on the court but also emerging as a foundational voice in Portland’s rebuild.
When asked about his role in shaping the next era of Blazers basketball, Avdija didn’t shy away from the responsibility.
“I definitely want to amplify a good culture into the organization. I hope I’m gonna stay in Portland. I love the city, the fans, and I think we’re in a good spot.”
That’s the kind of buy-in you want from a young cornerstone. Avdija isn’t just playing for stats - he’s investing in the long-term vision. And while All-Star Weekend can be overwhelming for first-timers, he made it clear he was soaking it all in.
“Just embrace the moment, embrace the people, and just have fun with it. It’s basketball at the end of the day and I’m on the biggest stage in the world.”
That perspective carried over into the game itself. Avdija acknowledged the usual All-Star quirks - limited chemistry, uneven shot distribution - but appreciated the effort level and the chance to compete.
“People really brought it, and I was happy. I was just playing, trying to do the best I can.
… We don’t play together all the time so we’re trying to figure each other out, but we tried. It was fun.”
He also gave a nod to the USA vs. The World format, which added a little extra juice to the matchup.
“It brought some competitiveness with it, and it’s a fun format. It shows how the game went global, which is amazing to see.”
For Avdija, this weekend wasn’t just a personal milestone - it was a sign that he’s stepping into a larger role, both on and off the court. And if he keeps trending upward, this likely won’t be his last All-Star appearance.
Damian Lillard: Still Shooting, Still Leading
Damian Lillard may not have played a game this season due to his Achilles injury, but he still managed to steal a piece of the spotlight. The veteran guard showed up to the 3-Point Contest on Saturday and walked away with his third title - a reminder that even sidelined, Dame is still Dame.
His entry into the contest came together in classic Lillard fashion - casual, confident, and unbothered.
“I was like, ‘If y’all need somebody to shoot, I’ll come shoot. I can use some competition, a little bit of pressure.’ ... And it was literally that simple.”
That’s the thing about Lillard - he doesn’t need a grand stage to make an impact. He just needs a ball, a little pressure, and a reason to compete.
As for his recovery, Lillard gave a candid look into where he’s at physically - not just rehabbing, but stress-testing.
“I think that’s where I am - testing it in the most harsh way, putting it in the most vulnerable positions and seeing how it responds, so I can know the truth about it.”
The mental side of rehab is just as important as the physical, and Lillard is clearly locked in on returning with confidence, not hesitation.
Off the court, he’s been watching closely - especially when it comes to Avdija. And he’s already thinking about how their games might mesh.
“I spend a lot of time seeing how the dynamic if I’m on the floor with him goes. I can learn him a lot better from this position than if I just came and had to play right away.”
That’s a subtle but powerful insight. Even while sidelined, Lillard is studying, mentoring, and preparing for what comes next - not just for himself, but for the team.
And when asked if he’s still committed to Portland, his answer was as unwavering as ever.
“I picked this team because, for one, it’s the team that I wanted to win a championship with all along. And two, the team is in position, in my eyes, to do that, especially with me being a part of it.”
That’s not just loyalty - that’s belief. In the franchise, in the roster, and in the journey.
Legacy in Motion
For Lillard, this All-Star Weekend was another chapter in a career built on moments that matter - not always flashy, but always meaningful. And he knows exactly what he’s doing.
“That’s all I do it for - just to keep adding to my legacy, keep adding to my reputation and being who I am.”
Meanwhile, for Avdija, this weekend felt like the start of something. A first taste of the spotlight.
A chance to prove he belongs. And based on how he carried himself - both in the game and in front of the mic - it’s clear he’s ready for more.
Portland may be in the midst of a rebuild, but if All-Star Weekend was any indication, the foundation is already showing signs of strength.