Avdija Exits Game with Back Injury, Expected to Play Friday

Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija exited Thursday's game against the Heat with a back injury after scoring 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in 18 minutes. This raises concern as he recently returned from a lower-back strain. Despite wearing a back wrap, head coach Tiago Splitter expects Avdija to play Friday against the Raptors, though his status will be monitored. He contributed significantly to Portland's 127-110 victory before his exit.