Blazers Beat Wizards as Avdija Finds New Home in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Moda Center was electrified on March 16, 2025, as the Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Washington Wizards 112-97, showcasing the team’s depth and resilience. Among the highlights of the night was Deni Avdija’s emotional reunion with former teammates, a reminder of the significant changes within the Wizards’ roster.

After the game, Avdija embraced former teammates Tristan Vukčević, Bilal Coulibaly, and Jordan Poole. However, the roster shake-up was evident, as many familiar faces, including Kyle Kuzma and Tyus Jones, had departed. “I just wanted to make sure there was nothing there,” said Anthony Gill, who facilitated a meeting between Avdija and new Wizard Bub Carrington, acquired in a trade for Avdija last June. “Deni was a big part of what this organization was building before. Bub is now a big part of what we’re building.”

Since joining the Blazers, Avdija has emerged as a vital player, even if his performance on Monday fell short of his usual standards with 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists. “It was hard for me to leave Washington, but I feel like I found a nice home in Portland,” he said.

Avdija’s journey has not been without its challenges. His rookie-scale contract extension with the Wizards, worth $55 million over four years, had initially given him confidence in his place with the team. The sudden trade shocked him. “It all just disappeared in a second. But everything’s for the good,” he reflected.

He recalled waking up in Israel to news of the trade that felt like “a heartbreak.” However, he remains focused on the positive, highlighting his commitment to win games. “If people wanted to trade me, it’s above my paycheck. I just do whatever I can to win games,” Avdija stated.

As he acclimated to his new team, Avdija showcased his skills on various occasions. Notably, he scored 34 points in a game against the Golden State Warriors and 27 points against the New York Knicks just days before reuniting with former teammates.

Blazers coach Chauncey Billups praised Avdija’s talent and adaptability, stating, “We’ve let him have a lot more responsibility with the ball, and he keeps proving to get better and better.”

Avdija’s absence in Washington is deeply felt, especially considering his one-on-one defensive skills and playmaking ability. “We were always together,” Coulibaly said, recalling their close relationship. “He brought so much joy to this organization.”

As for the Wizards, the team is working to rebuild. After a notable victory over the Denver Nuggets, where Jordan Poole nailed a buzzer-beater for a 126-123 win, the Wizards seem to be finding their rhythm despite being at the bottom of the league standings.

Rookie Alex Sarr led the team with an impressive performance against Denver, contributing 34 points and gaining recognition for his potential. “He has a future in the NBA for sure,” said Nikola Jokić of the Nuggets, acknowledging Sarr’s growth. Washington’s recent improvements may present a paradox as they hunt for better lottery odds to secure a promising draft pick while showing signs of competitive spirit.

Jordan Poole remarked on the significance of their hard-fought wins and how they provide a foundation for growth: “Those are the things that don’t only set us up for the next game or next week but for next year, trying to make playoff runs.”

As the Blazers and Wizards continue on their respective paths this season, Avdija’s adjustment to Portland and the Wizards’ efforts to rebuild offer fans a glimpse of two teams in transition.