The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Golden State Warriors 123-118 at home Wednesday night in their first preseason game ahead of the 2026-27 NBA campaign and with that it’s the perfect time for The Sports Rabbi to analyze Deni Avdija’s performance.

Avdija’s statistics: 21:01 minutes, 23 points, 6-of-7 from two-point range, 3-of-6 from three-point range, 2-of-4 from the free-throw line, 2 rebounds (1 offensive), 2 assists, 2 turnovers, 2 fouls and a -2 plus/minus.

Avdija’s grade – 9.5

Avdija opened the game with the first points of the contest thanks to a terrific drive and continued to showcase excellent play, scoring 14 points in the first quarter as he knocked down three-pointers and continued to attack the basket effectively. Portland controlled the game, but Golden State remained within striking distance and eventually fought its way back. Avdija did not score in the second quarter, but he returned to his dominant ways in the third, including a stretch in which he scored while drawing a foul.

He missed the ensuing free throw, but shortly afterward came up with an offensive-rebound basket following a miss by his team. Avdija reached 23 points after scoring nine in the third quarter, while he and Portland’s other key players did not play in the fourth.

The Dame-Deni duo needed no time 😮‍💨 https://t.co/S5Q0avjGRB

— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) October 8, 2026

Overall, Avdija turned in an outstanding performance. In addition to everything mentioned above, he displayed impressive defensive toughness on one play, made passes with ease while playing at his own pace, and showed flashes of chemistry with Damian Lillard (15 points, all in the first half), who returned from injury to make his comeback debut for Portland. Ja Morant (8 points, 5 assists) also contributed to the success of the trio of stars in his debut.

Although Portland, now coached by newcomer Micah Nori in pace of Tiago Splitter, faced a particularly depleted Golden State roster, this was still a performance the team can feel good about. Portland’s next preseason game will take place Tuesday at 11:00 p.m. Israel time against the London Lions.