The Portland Trail Blazers are quietly celebrating a trade that many initially mocked. Acquiring Deni Avdija from the Washington Wizards for Malcolm Brogdon, Bub Carrington, a 2029 first-round pick, and two second-round picks seemed like a steep price at the time. But Avdija's stellar performance has proven the Blazers right.
Avdija's Rise Justifies Blazers' Aggressive Move
Initially, experts like ESPN's Kevin Pelton favored the Wizards in the trade. However, Avdija's significant improvement in shooting has completely shifted the narrative. His three-point efficiency jumped considerably, and he's maintained that level of performance in Portland.
Avdija is now having a career season, making a legitimate All-Star case with averages of 24.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. His team-friendly contract, descending from $14.4 million this season to $11.9 million in 2027-28, is arguably the best in the league.
Wizards' Regret: Letting a Star Slip Away
The Washington Wizards are now facing the consequences of their decision. Letting Avdija go looks like a major mistake, especially considering their struggles this season. They let the answer to their biggest weakness slip away, and now they're watching him flourish in Portland.
Other questionable decisions, like holding off on trading Kyle Kuzma, have further damaged the Wizards' reputation. They're now known for making roster decisions that come back to haunt them.
The Catch: A Team-Friendly Contract Might Hinder Extension
Avdija's fantastic contract is a double-edged sword. While it's a bargain for the Blazers, it might hinder them from extending him before he hits unrestricted free agency. The final three years of his deal will be under the projected Mid-Level Exception, making it tricky to offer him a significant raise.
Despite the potential contract complications, Avdija has become the Blazers' most important player. He's a versatile forward who can do everything, recently even serving as the team's interim point guard due to injuries. His impact extends beyond the box score, making him a valuable asset for Portland.