POR • Forward • #8
Avdija injured his left quad during the first quarter of Wednesday’s game, with the Trail Blazers announcing early in the third that he would not return. Shaedon Sharpe started the second half in Avdija’s place and appears to be the replacement if Deni misses time. Also in line for an increase in playing would be Scoot Henderson.
4 months ago
February 27, 2025 1:36 AM
POR • Forward • #5
2 months ago
Banton played well as the starting point guard for Portland over their final seven games of the season. During this stretch as a starter, he has scored at least 20 points four times. He was also able to match his season-high of 23 points, which he has done a surprising four times this season without ever scoring more. Banton has benefitted from the absences of Anfernee Simons and Scoot Henderson, and he is set to be a free agent this summer. He could find a new team where he can be the backup point guard, but it will be difficult for him to find a situation where he can start.
POR • Forward • #5
2 months ago
Banton played well as the starting point guard for Portland over their final seven games of the season. During this stretch as a starter, he has scored at least 20 points four times. He was also able to match his season-high of 23 points, which he has done a surprising four times this season without ever scoring more. Banton has benefitted from the absences of Anfernee Simons and Scoot Henderson, and he is set to be a free agent this summer. He could find a new team where he can be the backup point guard, but it will be difficult for him to find a situation where he can start.
POR • Center • #23
2 months ago
Clingan closed out his rookie season on a high note by posting the eighth double-double of his young career. He has proven that he can be an effective player in a starting role, but it’s unclear what the rotation will look like in Portland next season. Deandre Ayton figures to be the starting center as long as he is with the Trail Blazers, and there hasn’t been any indication that they intend to move on. Clingan likely won’t be worth drafting next season if Ayton is on the roster.
IND • Forward • #5
about 15 hours ago
Injured during Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Walker has not appeared in a game since. According to Carlisle, the second-year forward is no longer using crutches but is still walking with a slight limp. Due to Indiana’s depth, Walker’s absence has not significantly impacted the team’s approach to this series. Obi Toppin was already the primary backup to Pascal Siakam, so his role remains unchanged.
Source: Dan Devine
HOU • Forward • #10
about 19 hours ago
Smith and the Rockets’ season ended disappointingly, as the Warriors bounced them from the first round of the playoffs in seven games. The 2022 lottery pick would eventually be moved to the bench late in the regular season, lowering his playing time. Whether it’s as a starter or as a reserve, Smith is working to improve his ability to make plays off the dribble. In addition to the stated desire to improve, he’s worth watching this offseason due to the recent Kevin Durant trade rumors. While Houston was adamant that it wanted to keep its young core together during the season, that may change this summer. And Smith’s name has been mentioned as one the Suns would likely be focused on if they were to make a deal with the Rockets.
Source: Ari Alexander
PHX • Forward • #35
1 day ago
Based on the most recent reports on the Durant saga, his next stop will be either Florida or Texas if he has his way. While Houston has long been a rumored destination for the 15-time All-Star, the front office took the approach of seeing what its current young core could offer. The Rockets were eliminated from the playoffs in the first round, but earning the two-seed in the West was a sign of significant progress being made. As for the Spurs, they’ve missed the postseason in phenom Victor Wembanyama’s two seasons in San Antonio, but there’s the expectation that he’s capable of being the face of the NBA in the future. Add in De’Aaron Fox, and there are some intriguing talents for Durant to connect with there. However, with the Suns not dealing with a trade deadline, Durant’s preference does not mean the franchise will pass on a move that would provide greater value. Miami was swept out of the playoffs by Cleveland, months after trading Jimmy Butler to the Warriors. Adding Durant would give the Heat a much-needed marquee scorer.
Source: The Athletic
