The Portland Trail Blazers are gearing up for a tough road test against the New York Knicks on Friday night-but they might be doing it without one of their key contributors. Forward Deni Avdija is dealing with a low back strain and is officially listed as questionable heading into the matchup at Madison Square Garden.
For a team already navigating a crowded injury report-eight Blazers are listed ahead of tip-off-Avdija’s status could be a swing factor. He’s been a steady presence on both ends of the floor, and his versatility is something Portland leans on, especially against more physical teams like the Knicks.
As it stands, the Blazers are 23-25 and holding onto ninth place in the Western Conference. They’re scrapping to stay in the play-in picture, and every game matters. Facing a Knicks squad that’s 29-18 and sitting second in the East is no small task-even more so if Portland is shorthanded.
Avdija’s availability could have a real impact on how Portland matches up defensively. The Knicks bring a physical, grinding style, and Avdija’s size and switchability are assets the Blazers would love to have on the floor. Without him, Portland may have to lean more heavily on their bench and get creative with their rotations.
Meanwhile, the Knicks are dealing with injury concerns of their own, with six players on their report. But they’ve been finding ways to win regardless, climbing the Eastern Conference standings thanks to consistent defense and timely shot-making.
As tip-off approaches, the big question for Portland remains: Will Deni Avdija be available? For now, the team is taking a wait-and-see approach. His status will be monitored closely, and a final decision likely won’t come until closer to game time.
If the Blazers want to pull off the upset in New York, having Avdija in uniform would go a long way.