Deni Avdija Shines, Making Knicks Regret Passing on Him Again
Deni Avdija is making waves in the NBA this season with the Portland Trail Blazers. Averaging 24.9 points per game and 5.4 assists, he is establishing himself as a significant player. His performance serves as a constant reminder to the New York Knicks of their decision in the 2020 draft.
Deni Avdija’s Impressive Season
Avdija’s season has been nothing short of remarkable. He has scored 20 or more points in 15 of his first 18 games. This consistent scoring showcases his development as a legitimate All-Star candidate this year.
- Career-high average: 24.9 points per game
- Assists per game: 5.4
- Games with 20+ points: 15 out of 18
The Knicks’ Missed Opportunity
During the 2020 NBA Draft, the New York Knicks had the eighth overall pick. At that time, Deni Avdija was available, but the Knicks chose Obi Toppin from the University of Dayton. While Toppin was a celebrated college player, Avdija has demonstrated a higher ceiling at the professional level.
As Avdija flourishes, Knicks fans are reminded of this draft decision. Toppin has provided moments of excitement but has not reached the level of impact expected of a top draft pick. Meanwhile, Avdija has become one of the most coveted player types in the league—multi-positional wings who can score effectively.
Avdija’s All-Around Game
One of the reasons for Avdija’s success is his two-way impact. He not only scores proficiently but also defends multiple positions effectively. This versatility makes him a rare asset in today’s game.
Portland’s coaching staff has encouraged Avdija to embrace his playmaking skills and hunt for mismatches, a strategy he did not consistently utilize with the Washington Wizards. This development highlights the stark contrast in player development between the two franchises.
The Future for the Knicks
The Knicks now face the reality of what could have been. They missed the chance to draft a player who fits the current demands of the NBA—a long, switchable scoring wing. Deni Avdija’s rise will continue to be a sore point for Knicks’ fans as they contemplate their decision from 2020.
As Avdija continues to excel in Portland, the question remains: how long will this decision haunt New York?
