By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
With Deni Avdija suffering an apparent back injury in the final moments, the Portland Trail Blazers dropped a five-game streak in a loss, 123-114, to the New York Knicks in Moda Center.
The 25-year-old combo forward recorded a team-high 25 points, despite his early exit on Sunday.
“It’s not something I’m picturing the worst right now. I just want to see how he feels. I know he’s gonna come back better, whatever situation, how long it is, even if he’s good tomorrow. It’s just something I have to see, I guess,” said Belgian Toumani Camara in a postgame media session, after ending up with 11 points.
“I’m not sure exactly what it is still, but he felt his back. So, that’s all I can tell you, something on his back,” noted interim head coach Tiago Splitter after his side fell to 19-21 in the 2025-26 NBA Regular Season.
“It’s a tough one, tough hit, after what he’s doing for us. But I don’t wanna sound the alarm too early. But I’m definitely worried about it,” added the 41-year-old play-caller.
Another European starter for the Brazilian tactician, French Sidy Cissoko, was held to five points, with French reserve Rayan Rupert at one point.
Helping the Knicks reach 25-14, British OG Anunoby tucked in 24 points. French Mohamed Diawara did not get on the scoreboard over 2:43, French Pacome Dadiet and German Ariel Hukporti were out of the rotation, and French Guerschon Yabusele (right quad contusion) stayed on the injury report.