Deni Avdija's Player of the Week Nom: More Than Just Stats?
The Numbers Behind the Nomination
Deni Avdija's nomination for Western Conference Player of the Week is generating buzz, but let's dissect the numbers. The Portland Trail Blazers went 3-0 during the week of October 27 to November 2, securing wins against the Lakers, Jazz, and Nuggets. Avdija led the team in scoring, averaging 22.3 points per game. Solid. He also shot 50% from the field and 41.2% from three. Respectable, especially the three-point percentage (which is about 8% higher than his career average). Add to that 5.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game, and you have a well-rounded stat line.
However, context matters. Jrue Holiday wasn't far behind, averaging 20.7 points on even more efficient shooting splits: 54.5% from the field and 40.9% from deep. Holiday also contributed 9 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. Holiday's assist numbers are significantly higher. The question becomes: why Avdija and not Holiday? Was it simply the slightly higher scoring average, or is there something else at play?
The "It" Factor and Market Value
Perhaps it's about narrative. Avdija, at 24, is entering his prime and recently signed a four-year, $55 million extension. He's the "young gun," the player the Blazers are building around. Holiday, while still productive, is a veteran presence. Naming Avdija Player of the Week (even if he didn't win) reinforces the team's commitment to him and potentially boosts his marketability.
And that marketability angle is key. According to "multiple sources," Avdija's net worth is estimated at $4 million. This figure likely includes his NBA contract, endorsement deals, and personal investments. A Player of the Week nod, even a nomination, adds to his brand and could attract more lucrative endorsement opportunities. He's already earning $14 million this season. Deni Avdija Net Worth 2025: Here's a look at the rise in the fortune of the Trail Blazers player
Consider his performance against the Lakers. Despite the Blazers losing 115-123, Avdija scored 33 points, grabbed six rebounds, and added a steal and a block. It was a statement game, showcasing his offensive capabilities. This is the kind of performance that generates highlight reels and attracts attention. Is the NBA subtly (or not so subtly) pushing a rising star? I've seen this play out dozens of times.
The actual winner this week was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, averaging 28.8 points, 6.5 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game while leading the Thunder to a 4-0 record. Those numbers are undeniable. Tyrese Maxey in the East averaged 33.5 points and 9.8 assists per game.
Beyond the Box Score: The Eye Test
Stats don't always tell the whole story. While Avdija's numbers are impressive, they don't fully capture his impact on the court. Does he elevate the play of his teammates? Does he make winning plays that don't show up in the box score? Details on how he led the team are scarce. It's one thing to score points; it's another to be a true leader.
This is where the "eye test" comes in. How does Avdija look on the court? Is he confident, decisive, and engaged? Is he a vocal leader in the locker room? These are the intangibles that separate good players from great ones. These are also the hardest to quantify.
I wonder, too, about the impact of his background. Avdija comes from a family of athletes. His father was a professional basketball player, and his mother was a track and field athlete. Does this upbringing give him an edge in terms of discipline, work ethic, and mental toughness? It's impossible to say for sure, but it's a factor worth considering.
More Hype Than Substance?
Ultimately, Avdija's Player of the Week nomination feels a bit premature. The numbers are good, but not exceptional. The narrative is compelling, but still developing. It's as if the NBA is trying to manufacture a star, pushing Avdija into the spotlight before he's fully earned it. That's not to say he doesn't have the potential. But the hype needs to align with on-court performance. Otherwise, it's just marketing.
