Avdija Out Friday with Back Strain, Misses Third Straight Game

Deni Avdija (back) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Grizzlies, marking his third consecutive absence due to a back strain. The Portland Trail Blazers forward's next opportunity to play will be Saturday in the second leg of their back-to-back set against Memphis. Jerami Grant and Sidy Cissoko are expected to fill in as starting candidates during Avdija's continued recovery.