Deni Avdija Ruled Out for Third Straight Game vs. Lakers with Back Injury

Deni Avdija (back) has been officially ruled out for the Portland Trail Blazers' Saturday game against the Lakers. Initially listed as doubtful, he was downgraded to out, marking his third consecutive absence. Avdija's next opportunity to return to action will be Sunday when the team faces Sacramento. The specific nature of his back injury was not detailed beyond the designation.