The Spurs took care of business in Game 1 on Sunday night, taking a 1-0 series lead against the Trail Blazers, covering as double digit favorites. While it appears that San Antonio should be able to advance without too much pressure applied from Portland, this Blazers team still plays hard all the way through.
A major reason for Portland’s step forward this season has been the play of Deni Avdija, who’s rounding into form down the stretch. The former Wizard put on a show in the Play-In round, dropping 41 points in a win in Phoenix to earn the 7-seed. He followed it up with 30 points in Game 1 against the Spurs, playing nearly 40 minutes and shooting an efficient 12-for-21 from the field.
Individual success against the Spurs is nothing new for Avdija, who is averaging 31.2 points per game in four meetings this season (including regular season and playoffs). He’s scored at least 29 points in all four of those matchups, and Avdija has gone for 25 or more points in eight consecutive games now, dating back to late March.
I expect more of the same from the budding superstar in Game 2 on the road, with Portland fighting to stay out of a 2-0 hole. Ultimately, I think the Spurs will be too much and continue to protect home court. But unless this is a complete blowout, expect Avdija to see his typical 38-40 minutes, along with high usage on offense. I backed him at even money to continue his 25-plus streak in Game 2 on Tuesday night.
NBA Pick: Deni Avdija 25+ Points (+100)
