Deni Avdija is quickly gaining recognition as a potential All-Star, highlighted by recent strong performances and inclusion on lists of emerging stars.The Portland Trail Blazers forward has demonstrated notable growth,positioning himself as a key candidate for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game and beyond.
Avdija emerged as the Blazers’ best player following a mid-season trade, averaging 23.3 points, 9.7 rebounds,and 5.2 assists with 50-40 shooting splits after the 2024 All-Star break. He’s continued that momentum into the current season, currently averaging 24.1 points per game – 19th in the league – through seven games, shooting 49.1 percent from the field and 37.8 percent from three-point range. He also ranks second on the team in both rebounding (6 per game) and assists (3.9 per game).
Pelton recently included Avdija among a list of 10 emerging stars around the league vying for their first All-Star appearance. If the Blazers remain competitive in the playoff race, Avdija is expected to be their most prominent All-Star contender.
The NBA is also planning a revamped All-Star weekend format for 2026, aiming to increase the event’s competitiveness. the game, scheduled for February 15, 2026, at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, will feature a three-team round-robin tournament comprised of two American teams and one international team. Avdija’s relentless competitive spirit makes him a player who could thrive in the new format and inject energy into the All-Star game.
