After an exciting NBA All-Star Weekend, the Portland Trail Blazers are back on the practice court in Tualatin, gearing up for the crucial final stretch of the regular season.
Head coach Tiago Splitter provided some key updates on player injuries, while Deni Avdija and Donovan Clingan shared their thoughts on the team's mindset.
Here’s the latest from Blazers camp:
Shaedon Sharpe, the dynamic Blazers guard, sat out Thursday’s practice as he continues to nurse a left calf strain. Coach Splitter confirmed Sharpe’s absence for Friday’s matchup against the Denver Nuggets, noting, “We’re still evaluating how long he’s gonna be out. For the near future, he’s gonna be out for a little bit.”
On a brighter note, Matisse Thybulle and Kris Murray both participated fully in practice over the past two days. Thybulle is recovering from right knee tendinopathy, while Murray is dealing with a lumbar strain. Their participation is a positive sign, and the team will assess their readiness for the Denver game closer to tip-off.
A situation worth watching involves forward Sidy Cissoko. The two-way contract player has maxed out his 50-game limit with the Blazers.
To have him back on the court, the team would need to make roster adjustments and convert his contract to a standard one. Splitter mentioned, “Sidy did a great job and is a great player for us.
Now it’s up to Joe [Cronin] and the front office to make a decision there, and we’ll see.”
Deni Avdija expressed optimism about the team’s current standing and chemistry, stating, “Our spirits are up. We’re in a good spot in the standings, and our confidence is really good right now. Everybody is happy for each other, and we just want to finish [the last 26 games].”
Donovan Clingan highlighted the team’s focus areas for the remainder of the season: improving defense, enhancing rebounding, and reducing turnovers. These elements will be crucial as the Blazers aim to solidify their playoff position.
As the Blazers prepare for the final push, the blend of recovery, strategy, and team spirit will be key in determining their success down the stretch.