The Portland Trail Blazers will be owned by Tom Dundon starting next season. While they have had a promising campaign, the Blazers still need a true star. Deni Avdija‘s offense suggests he is the man to take over, but that might not be the right move.
Deni Avdija May Not Be The Blazers’ Long-Term Star After All
This season has been a breakout year for Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija. He earned his first All-Star nod as he emerged as the Blazers’ primary ball-handler and first option. While Shaedon Sharpe is also a high-level scorer, Avdija truly became the team’s go-to guy.
Avdija’s primary offense is getting downhill and finishing at the rim. He has also become known for his aggression and ability to draw fouls. The 25-year-old is averaging 24 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game. He is definitely effective, but he might not be the Blazers’ foundational player.
A Bright Future Relies On A Foundational Star
The Blazers will enter a new era in the 2026-27 season. After 38 years of ownership by the Allen family, the team will soon be led by Tom Dundon. This will be a massive shift for the Blazers, likely coming with organizational changes.
Key trades could be on the horizon, especially with the Blazers’ treasure trove of assets. They have the Orlando Magic’s first-round pick in 2028 and the Milwaukee Bucks’ first-round pick in 2029. Alongside the ’29 FRP, the Blazers own the Bucks’ two pick swaps in 2028 and 2030.
The Portland Trailblazers have shown interest in trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo and re-uniting him with Damian Lillard 👀
The Blazers hold a ‘unique leverage’ in the negotiations as they hold the Bucks ‘28, ‘29 & ‘30 draft picks from the Lillard trade. Milwaukee may be… pic.twitter.com/Z4u75JlhRJ
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) February 3, 2026
With those assets, the Blazers can pave the way for a potential blockbuster trade. One idea is to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, which could involve those picks and a significant player. Avdija would be the best candidate in that scenario, and the Blazers could package him with another promising talent.
That could either be Sharpe or Scoot Henderson, who both have enough potential to convince the Bucks. Across the NBA, many think Antetokounmpo is being held “hostage” in Milwaukee. If he moves to Portland, he can carry them to a championship, and the roster is ready-made for him.
Avdija’s Offense Is Not The Best Way To Win Games
This season, Avdija has been excellent for Portland. He is their first All-Star since Damian Lillard, which means a lot for the Blazers. However, he might not play the best brand of basketball for a team that wants to contend.
Avdija thrives the most in transition because of his speed and strength. Unfortunately, he is not the best player when Portland is in the half-court. And since he plays physically, he draws plenty of fouls. That can be good in the regular season, but officials tighten up in the playoffs.
2025-26 Least Efficient Halfcourt Offense Lineups…
What stands out? https://t.co/LhB3FZd4N0 pic.twitter.com/ZWmSDFBYLG
— Basketball University (@UofBasketball) April 8, 2026
While Lillard’s return can solve their half-court offense, Avdija’s impact could be limited. His second half of the season was night and day compared to the first half. Avdija was a true All-Star, but his back injury has hampered him and his playing style.
Moving forward, Avija could still be a reliable star for Portland. However, thinking about the long-term future could make him a valuable trade asset. General manager Joe Cronin needs to make a major splash in his first offseason under new ownership. Trading Avdija for a blockbuster return could be the result Dundon and his group love.
© Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
