The Portland Trail Blazers have waived Javonte Cooke, who had been with the team on a two-way contract throughout the 2025/26 NBA season. This move creates an additional opening on the team’s two-way roster, allowing Portland further flexibility as they look to adjust their lineup.
Cooke’s Role and Performance Overview
Throughout the season, the 6-foot-6 shooting guard appeared in 19 NBA games, averaging modest numbers of 1.2 points and 1.0 rebounds while playing under five minutes per contest. Despite limited minutes on Portland’s main roster, Cooke impressed with his strong play in the G League for the Rip City Remix.
In 15 games with the Remix, Cooke averaged over 33 minutes per game and posted impressive statistics, including 22.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks. He shot 45.8% from the field, 35.8% from beyond the arc, and 75% from the free-throw line, showing his scoring versatility and defensive contributions.
Career Background and Recent History
Undrafted in 2022 after playing collegiately across three Division II programs, Cooke has spent much of his early professional career in the NBA G League. Prior to joining the Trail Blazers, he also competed in 2024 with the Brampton Honey Badgers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League, gaining valuable experience in competitive play.
Implications for Trail Blazers’ Roster Moves
With Cooke’s release, the Trail Blazers now have two open two-way contract slots. Reports indicate one of these positions is likely to be filled by former Oklahoma City Thunder guard Chris Youngblood, signaling the team’s intention to strengthen their depth moving forward.
“Trail Blazers To Waive Javonte Cooke https://t.co/D8q3uBumlf pic.twitter.com/4pvU7AH964” — Hoops Rumors
What This Means for the Team and Player
By waiving Cooke, Portland gains roster flexibility to bring in new talent to support their NBA lineup and G League affiliate. For Cooke, this development could provide an opportunity to pursue playing time elsewhere, leveraging his solid performances in Portland’s development system and the G League. The team’s next moves on their two-way roster will be closely watched as the season progresses.
Trail Blazers To Waive Javonte Cooke https://t.co/D8q3uBumlf pic.twitter.com/4pvU7AH964
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 2, 2026
