The Blazers coach is convinced that Avdija (back) is fine and will play next Friday against the Raptors.
Rip City fans can at least take a sigh of relief now about the new back complication of Deni Avdija.
Portland Trail Blazers / Schedule
In his postgame media presser of the Portland Trail Blazers' 127-110 win over the Miami Heat, interim coach Tiago Splitter revealed that he was primarily responsible for deactivating Avdija in the Thursday game.
Avdija wanted to return, but Splitter opted for the precautionary approach due to the Blazers star's sudden back stiffness.
"I think he'll be fine," Splitter said, noting he expects Avdija to play on Friday against the Toronto Raptors (via Joe Freeman of The Oregonian).
Avdija left prematurely in the opening minutes of the third quarter between the Blazers and the Heat.
He was spotted holding his lower back after Andrew Wiggins unintentionally hit him during the Blazers' defensive possession.
Avdija previously missed three consecutive games due to a lower-back strain. Regardless of whether he suits up against the Raptors, his back injury will be monitored.
Avdija is in the midst of a career season, averaging a career-high 26.2 points and 6.9 assists with 7.1 boards in 41 games. The All-Star hopeful and early Most Improved Player candidate spearheads Portland to an impressive 23-22 record, which stands as the current ninth-best record in the West.
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