Deni Avdija Breakout Fuels Trail Blazers 137 to 117 Win Over Jazz in Portland

PORTLAND Ore. — Deni Avdija delivered a career defining night as the Portland Trail Blazers rolled past the Utah Jazz 137 to 117 on Monday, producing one of their most complete performances of the season and continuing a noticeable upward trend in the Western Conference.

Avdija finished with 33 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds in just three quarters, narrowly missing a triple double while dictating the pace from the opening tip. His scoring efficiency and playmaking opened the floor for Portland and turned the game into a one sided affair by halftime.

The performance marked a clear breaking update in Avdija’s role, as he handled extended on ball responsibilities and consistently created advantages against Utah’s defense. His ability to score at all three levels while rebounding and defending multiple positions continues to reshape Portland’s rotation and long term outlook.

Shaedon Sharpe added 29 points and applied constant pressure on the perimeter, preventing the Jazz from generating sustained momentum. Rookie center Donovan Clingan anchored the interior with 17 rebounds and 12 points, controlling the glass and fueling transition opportunities that widened the margin throughout the second and third quarters.

Portland dominated the rebounding battle and capitalized on second chance possessions, scoring 114 points through three quarters, its highest total in that span this season. Ball movement and defensive activity kept Utah chasing for most of the night, with the Trail Blazers repeatedly turning stops into efficient offense.

Utah struggled to contain dribble penetration and perimeter movement, allowing Portland to shoot comfortably and dictate tempo. Lauri Markkanen faced consistent defensive attention and was unable to swing momentum as the deficit reached double digits before halftime. The Jazz allowed 137 points for the third time this season, highlighting ongoing defensive issues away from home.

The win moved Portland to 17 and 20, extending a stretch in which the team has won 5 of its last 6 games. The latest timeline points to increased cohesion, clearer rotation roles, and a growing impact from Avdija as Portland balances development with competitiveness.

Utah continues its road trip Wednesday against Oklahoma City, while Portland hosts Houston in a two game set that will offer another opportunity to build momentum and evaluate lineup consistency as the season moves forward.