Deni Avdija's status uncertain for Blazers vs. Pacers game

The Blazers forward has been sidelined with a back injury since late February.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija has been out since February 24th due to a low back injury. He is listed as questionable for the team's upcoming game against the Indiana Pacers, indicating he has a chance to return after missing the last six games. Blazers acting head coach Tiago Splitter previously stated there was a possibility the team could shut Avdija down for the season to allow the injury to fully heal, but it appears they are still hopeful he can return to the court soon.

Why it matters

Avdija's return would be a boost for the Blazers, who are trying to stay in the Western Conference Play-In race. The team has missed his impact on the floor during his absence. His status will be closely monitored as the Blazers look to get healthier down the stretch of the season.

The details

Avdija re-injured his lower back in the Blazers' previous game against the Phoenix Suns, where he played just one minute before leaving the game. Blazers acting head coach Tiago Splitter acknowledged at the time that the team would have to "figure it out offensively" without Avdija, and that the rest of the team would need to "step up" defensively in his absence.

  • Avdija has been out since February 24th.
  • The Blazers' next game is against the Indiana Pacers on March 8th.

The players

Deni Avdija

A forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who has been sidelined with a back injury since late February.

Tiago Splitter

The acting head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Deni, like I said, he was questionable, he felt good before the game. His back just... He felt it again, we lose him and it's not easy. The team had to kind of figure it out offensively, but I think defensively, everybody stepped up and did an amazing job.”

— Tiago Splitter, Acting Head Coach, Portland Trail Blazers (clutchpoints.com)

“Well, I'm not a doctor, but yes. I've got to probably see what's going on and dive deep there to see what's really happening.”

— Tiago Splitter, Acting Head Coach, Portland Trail Blazers (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Blazers will monitor Avdija's progress and status leading up to the game against the Pacers on March 8th to determine if he is able to return to the lineup.

The takeaway

Avdija's potential return would be a welcome development for the Blazers as they try to stay in the Western Conference Play-In race, but the team will need to be cautious with his back injury to ensure he is fully healthy before returning to game action.