Israeli winger Deni Avdija delivered a very high-level performance Friday night, scoring 34 points and delivering 11 assists during the Portland Trail Blazers’ victory against the New Orleans Pelicans (122-109), in New Orleans.
Avdija was Portland’s offensive engine, especially in the first half, which he finished with 23 points. The Blazers took the definitive advantage in the second quarter before gradually widening the gap to win and sign a third victory in four matches.
Portland was also able to count on Donovan Clingan, author of 11 points and 15 rebounds, including nine offensive ones, while Shaedon Sharpe scored 23 points. Caleb Love added 22 points, including six three-pointers. The Blazers took advantage of 24 points on second chances and 23 points scored after 15 balls lost by their opponents.
On the Pelicans side, Zion Williamson finished as the match’s top scorer with 35 points, but failed to avoid a sixth consecutive defeat for his team. Tookie Jeremiah Fears scored 18 points, while Jordan Poole and Karlo Matkovic each scored 16 points. Kevon Looney grabbed 12 rebounds.
Deprived of several major players through injury, the Pelicans started the game well before collapsing in the second quarter, leaving Portland to take control of the match and never let go.
