Deni Avdija Emerges as NBA's Best Bargain with Trail Blazers

The versatile forward's team-friendly contract and All-Star production make him one of the league's most valuable players.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Deni Avdija, a former ninth overall pick, has blossomed into an All-Star caliber player with the Portland Trail Blazers after a sluggish start with the Washington Wizards. Despite his rapid rise, Avdija's four-year, $55 million contract extension is proving to be an exceptional value, as he is producing at an elite level while taking up only 9.3% of the team's salary cap.

Why it matters

Avdija's success highlights the importance of player development and the ability to uncover hidden gems in the NBA draft. His team-friendly contract also allows the Trail Blazers to build a competitive roster around him, making Avdija's emergence a significant factor in the team's championship aspirations.

The details

After struggling to find consistency with the Wizards, Avdija was traded to the Trail Blazers, who signed him to a four-year, $55 million extension. In his first season with Portland, Avdija's scoring rose to 16.9 points per game, and he has continued to improve, averaging 25.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game in the 2025-26 season. Avdija has also become one of the league's most skilled players at drawing fouls, adding another dimension to his offensive game.

  • Avdija was selected ninth overall in the 2020 NBA Draft.
  • He struggled to find consistency with the Wizards in his first few seasons.
  • Avdija was traded to the Trail Blazers prior to the 2024-25 season.
  • The Trail Blazers signed Avdija to a four-year, $55 million extension.
  • Avdija is preparing for his first NBA All-Star appearance in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Deni Avdija

A versatile forward who has emerged as an All-Star caliber player with the Portland Trail Blazers after a sluggish start with the Washington Wizards.

Portland Trail Blazers

The NBA team that acquired Deni Avdija via a sign-and-trade and signed him to a team-friendly four-year, $55 million contract extension.

Washington Wizards

The NBA team that drafted Deni Avdija ninth overall in 2020 but ultimately traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers.

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What they’re saying

“Deni Avdija's emergence as an All-Star is a testament to his hard work and the Trail Blazers' ability to unlock his full potential.”

— Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers point guard (The Oregonian)

What’s next

Avdija is expected to continue his All-Star-caliber play with the Trail Blazers, and his team-friendly contract could make him a valuable trade asset if the team decides to build around him in the future.

The takeaway

Deni Avdija's rapid rise with the Portland Trail Blazers showcases the value of player development and the ability to uncover hidden gems in the NBA draft. His team-friendly contract makes him one of the league's most cost-effective stars, providing the Trail Blazers with the flexibility to build a competitive roster around him.