Blazers stun Suns in play-in thriller, secure No. 7 seed behind Avdija’s 41-point masterpiece

The Portland Trail Blazers are heading back to the playoffs, and they have Deni Avdija to thank for one of the most memorable performances in recent franchise history. The first-time All-Star erupted for 41 points in Tuesday’s play-in tournament clash against the Phoenix Suns, leading a dramatic comeback victory that secured the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference.

Portland’s 114-110 triumph marked their return to postseason basketball after a three-year absence, with Avdija providing the heroics when it mattered most. The 25-year-old forward delivered the decisive blow with 16.1 seconds remaining, converting a physical three-point play that capped off a remarkable individual effort.

Clutch gene on full display

Avdija’s breakout performance showcased why he earned All-Star recognition this season. Despite coach Tiago Splitter suggesting it was « kind of an off night » for his star player, Avdija shot an efficient 15-of-22 from the field while contributing 12 assists and seven rebounds in 38 minutes of action.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT, DENI IS HIM. pic.twitter.com/omgnra0hR4

— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) April 15, 2026

« It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my career so far, » Avdija said after the victory. The Israeli forward joined elite company, becoming just the fifth player to score 40 or more points in a play-in game, alongside Jayson Tatum (50 points in 2021), Coby White (42 in 2024), Anthony Davis (40 in 2025), and Zion Williamson (40 in 2024).

Veteran guard Jrue Holiday, a two-time NBA champion, was impressed with Avdija’s composure in his postseason debut. « I feel like he’s unique. Nobody does what he does, » Holiday said. « Deni coming out here, carrying us, especially down the stretch, getting that winning bucket and being able to go home knowing we’re playing San Antonio is something you love to see in Deni because this is what we expect from him now. »

The Blazers showed remarkable resilience, clawing back from an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit in a physical contest. Holiday contributed 21 points while Jerami Grant added 16 after returning from a calf injury. The victory sets up a first-round matchup against the No. 2 seed San Antonio Spurs.

« I think back to the beginning of the season, we weren’t very disciplined at staying together and finishing games, » Avdija reflected. « I feel like we showed character today. We showed growth, we showed character, we showed we were capable of keeping our composure and making winning plays. »

Meanwhile, the Suns will host the winner of Friday’s Clippers-Warriors matchup, with the victor earning the No. 8 seed and a date with top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.