By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Portland Trail Blazers are entering the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season with a completely revamped roster.
In a busy summer, the franchise traded for Ja Morant and hired head coach Micah Nori. Now, they are building a versatile system around its new multi-guard backcourt.
Israeli forward Deni Avdija is a central piece of this fresh lineup. The 25-year-old standout shined in the Preseason, averaging 17.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. This year, he aims to become an elite two-way presence.
“My plan is to take another step defensively, especially this year,” he mentioned after team practice on Sunday. “I want to be a great two-way player.”
To fit alongside dominant ball-handlers, including Damian Lillard, the former Maccabi Tel Aviv player and All-Star last season is adapting his game. He expects to play ‘a little bit more off the ball’ but remains confident in the group’s collective flexibility.
“We’re very versatile,” he noted. “We have a lot of players that can play multiple positions. They can put pressure on the rim. They can play defense. I feel like everybody’s mind is there, and obviously the coaching staff is going to do the best job they can to put us in great situations. We’re just going to rock and roll with the lineups.”
This rotation will feature heavy international depth, despite Portland waiving Polish Jeremy Sochan. Avdija is projected to start in the frontcourt next to Belgian Toumani Camara. Meanwhile, French Sidy Cissoko and Czech Vít Krejci will provide European flavor off the bench.
The Blazers open the Regular Season at home against the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, then travel to play the Sacramento Kings on Friday.
Make 
Your Preferred Basketball Source.
Add Eurohoops to Google