Portland Trailblazers forward Deni Avdija is nearing a return after missing the loss to Golden State with lower-back soreness. The 25-year-old Israeli star was injured late in the defeat to New York and was held out of the following game as a precaution.
According to the NBA injury report, Avdija is listed as doubtful for Portland’s game against Atlanta, though his condition has been described as gradually improving. He had not missed a game earlier this season before the back issue.
Avdija is averaging 26.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.9 assists and has been a key figure in Portland’s campaign.
His performance this season has also placed him in the conversation as a legitimate All-Star candidate, reflecting his emergence as one of the league’s most productive wings.
New in 2026, two teams of US players and one team of international players will compete in a four-game, 12-minute tournament.
Five starters from each conference will be chosen by a fan vote (50%), the media (25%) and current players (25%), while head coaches will pick seven reserves from each conference (regardless of position).
NBA All-Star Game slated for four weeks time
The All-Star Game will take place on Sunday, February 15 in Los Angeles.