Trail Blazers' Slump: Avdija's Return Hopes

0:00You're listening to NBA News today. Subscribe now for fast, daily updates on your team. The Portland Trail Blazers have dropped their last two games, slipping to 10th place in the Western Conference. They still hold the final play in tournament spot with a four and a half game lead over the Memphis Grizzlies. Analysts have noticed a slide in recent power rankings. The team is two and four since the All-Star break, struggling with poor offense on the road against Charlotte and Atlanta. They face two more tough road games in Memphis and Houston, where they hold a rest advantage. Experts point to injuries as the main problem. Denise Abdisha has missed time with a lingering back issue, and Shaden Sharp's efficiency woes hurt the scoring depth. Portland's defense has given up big points off turnovers, like 30 or more in eight games this season. The Blazers perform better with Abdisha on the floor, going 23 and 25 with him compared to 6 and 8 without. Even those wins without him came mostly against rebuilding teams. Acting head coach Thiago Splitter says Abdisha is close to returning,

1:03maybe in the next couple of games. That should help them find balance lineups before a key match up in Memphis as they gear up for the play-in. This story is shared with support from our sponsor. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening in bed. S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com