**Deni Avdija Dominates as Trail Blazers Crush Pelicans to Start 2026 Strong**
Key Takeaways:
- Deni Avdija posted 34 points, 11 assists, and 7 rebounds in a commanding win over New Orleans.
- The Portland Trail Blazers rebounded from a previous blowout loss in the same arena.
- The win marks Portland’s fifth double-digit victory of the season, improving to 15-20.
New Orleans, LA — Deni Avdija is trending after delivering a monster performance that propelled the Portland Trail Blazers to a statement 122-109 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night, opening the 2026 calendar year with authority.
All-Star-Level Performance Headlines Blazers Victory
Deni Avdija put together one of the most complete performances of his NBA career, scoring 34 points, dishing out 11 assists, and grabbing 7 rebounds, while turning the ball over just twice. Facing constant pressure and double teams from the Pelicans’ defense, Avdija responded with poise, showcasing his offensive versatility with three-point shooting (3-of-5), driving finishes, and precise alley-oops. It was his ninth 30-point game this season and his 21st time with at least 20 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds.
“He creates so much gravity, so the whole defense is around him,” acting head coach Tiago Splitter said postgame. “That allows Caleb [Love] shots, Toumani [Camara] shots, Shaedon [Sharpe] shots.”
Revenge Over Pelicans Fuels Emphatic Statement
Just weeks ago, the Blazers suffered a lopsided 143-120 loss in New Orleans while severely undermanned. Back with a healthier and sharper lineup, Portland returned to the Smoothie King Center seeking both redemption and momentum entering 2026. Despite a sluggish start and trailing by eight after the first quarter, the Blazers locked down defensively and held New Orleans to 35% shooting over two quarters, including 0-for-14 from deep.
Rookie guard Caleb Love added 22 points off the bench, hitting 6-of-11 from beyond the arc in his sixth straight game in double figures. Second-year center Donovan Clingan posted a key double-double with 11 points and 15 rebounds, also contributing with physical screens and defensive anchors.
Momentum Shift Could Kickstart Blazers’ Midseason Push
This win moves the Blazers to 15-20 for the season, helping them erase the sting of their recent blowout loss to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The team’s youth core appears to be finding rhythm, especially as Avdija continues to assert himself as a potential All-Star candidate. With a back-to-back matchup against the struggling Spurs set for Saturday, Portland has an opportunity to build serious midseason momentum.
Love acknowledged the team’s added motivation: “We remember them trying to do windmills and stuff on us at the end of the game,” he said, referencing the December blowout. “We came in here with a little extra edge.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Deni Avdija trending?
A: He delivered a standout 34-point, 11-assist performance in a key road win, earning buzz for potential All-Star consideration.
Q: What happens next?
A: The Trail Blazers face the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday as they aim to string together back-to-back wins to begin 2026.
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