If Portland wants to become a "serious contender in the West", this is what will need to happen
In the United States, analysts argue that Morant will help take some of the offensive burden off Avdija's shoulders: "Deni cannot do it all alone. Ja will help."
Portland's sensational trade for Ja Morant is set to have a significant impact on Deni Avdija next season. Alongside the questions raised in the US regarding this connection, the "Rip City Project" blog now claims that the point guard, who has known quite a few ups and downs, is set to take some of the heavy burden off the Israeli's shoulders.
"Avdija is a high-level offensive creator, but he needs some help, especially when it comes to drives to the paint and creating situations. Morant is the perfect man for this task, but he will need to reduce the number of turnovers and focus much more on his game management abilities next season. As the roster is currently built, Portland is not lacking players capable of producing points. Avdija is undoubtedly expected to be a significant force next season, Damian Lillard is returning, and Shaedon Sharpe is also capable of exploding offensively. Morant will get his points, but this team needs him primarily as a playmaker. Lillard will also contribute with passing, but Morant's ability to penetrate the paint gives him a unique opportunity to influence the team."
The point guard who arrived from Memphis after a host of off-court complications looked at times like one of the most exciting and best guards in the world, but last year he participated in only 20 games and was very far from his peak, with 19.5 points (41% from the field, 23% from 3), 3.3 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 3.6 turnovers per evening.
The blog covering the Blazers further added: "One of Avdija's most prominent traits is his willingness and ability to attack the basket, penetrate the paint, and from there create situations for himself and others. Among all Portland players, he is the best at this. But now Morant will be by his side. He is also a player capable of penetrating well and passing out to open teammates. This addition of playmaking should greatly ease things for Avdija and open up the Blazers' offense.
"The best teams in the league have several players capable of creating plays, several players who can initiate an offense, and several high-level passers who know how to create open shots for their teammates. Jrue Holiday did a reasonable job of this last season, but he is not a creator on Morant's level, especially when it comes to creating an advantage and breaking down opposing defenses. This is where Morant's athleticism and speed should come into play, provided he can manage to stay on the court next season. Portland needs Morant as a playmaker. The Blazers need him and Avdija to lead them in this area. Because if they want to become serious contenders in the West, Avdija cannot do it all alone."
