During Sunday night’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns at the Mortgage Matchup Center, the Portland Trail Blazers lost NBA All-Star Deni Avdija early due to a back injury. Avdija, 25, played only one minute before the team ruled him out for the rest of the game as a precaution related to his ongoing back problems.
Official Confirmation and Fan Reactions
The Trail Blazers confirmed on social media that Avdija would not return, citing a “low back” injury as the reason for his early exit. This development stirred frustration among the team’s supporters, many of whom voiced their concerns online. One fan expressed:
“Literally shouldn’t have played. He was the last leg on my parlay. Lost because he played 1 minute,”
while another urged,
“Rest Deni until he is fully healthy,”
underscoring the anxious mood surrounding his health.
Social media user Michael J. Guidice also weighed in, sharing a hopeful message:
“Hopefully not done for the year 🙏🏾🫣”
Fans pleaded for Avdija to avoid risking further injury, as one commenter remarked,
“Please just let him rest man we don’t want injury to ruin another star’s career.”
Another fan expressed frustration over his performance amid physical struggles:
“Deni just cashing paychecks this year. Tired of carrying the whole fn team. Whose back wouldn’t hurt?”
Avdija’s Back Problems Impacting Season and Team
This back issue is not new for Avdija, who has already missed nine games during the 2025-26 NBA season because of this recurring ailment. Coming into Sunday’s game, he was listed as questionable, raising doubts about his availability. Despite the injury, Avdija had a strong performance last Friday against the Denver Nuggets, playing 30 minutes and contributing 15 points along with 13 assists.
Possible Implications for Trail Blazers’ Future
Avdija’s early departure highlights the ongoing challenge the Trail Blazers face managing his health while relying on him as a key player. His back injury could potentially limit his availability going forward, which puts added pressure on the team’s roster as they continue the season. How the Trail Blazers handle his recovery will be critical in preserving his career and maintaining their competitiveness.
INJURY UPDATE: Deni Avdija (Low Back) will not return to tonight’s game @ PHX.
— Trail Blazers PR (@TrailBlazersPR) February 23, 2026
Literally shouldn’t have played. He was the last leg on my parlay. Lost because he played 1 minute
— Cody Randall (@CodyRandal44453) February 23, 2026
https://twitter.com/MEGASUSMANIA/status/2025746737269489709
Hopefully not done for the year 🙏🏾🫣 pic.twitter.com/jWk3kQ440x
— Michael J. Guidice (@MJG503) February 23, 2026
Please just let him rest man we don’t want injury to ruin another star’s career
— キャプテン ＂フォー＂ ディー・ジェー・アィ(captain4dji) (@captainthe4th) February 23, 2026
Deni just cashing paychecks this year. Tired of carrying the whole fn team. Whose back wouldn't hurt?
— Josh (@Josh74272056908) February 23, 2026
