The Portland Trail Blazers saw a key piece of their backcourt leave Sunday’s win over the Phoenix Suns, as guard Deni Avdija exited the game when his lower back issue flared up.
Avdija has been battling lower back problems for weeks, and the setback forced him out before the final buzzer as Portland closed out the victory.
Ongoing concern
The development adds another chapter to an injury situation that has lingered for Avdija, who has been managing the back issue over an extended stretch. His early departure came despite the Blazers maintaining control of the result against Phoenix.
Portland will continue forward after securing the win, but Avdija’s status remains tied to how his lower back responds following the latest flare-up.