Overview
- Avdija left Sunday’s win in Phoenix 59 seconds after tip with renewed lower-back pain and did not return.
- The All-Star first strained his back on Jan. 11 against the Knicks and has missed 10 games over the past six weeks due to recurring flare-ups, with Tuesday set to be his 11th absence.
- Interim coach Tiago Splitter said the team will “dive deep” into the issue, indicating further medical assessment is planned.
- Beat writer Sean Highkin has recommended extended rest given Portland’s easy remaining schedule and likely play-in positioning.
- Portland’s injury report also lists Damian Lillard (Achilles) and Shaedon Sharpe (calf) as out, tightening options during the push for postseason seeding.