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- calendar_today October 22, 2026
Damian Lillard Returns With a Statement Performance
Damian Lillard made a strong statement in his first regular-season game since rejoining the Portland Trail Blazers, scoring 25 points and leading the team to a 124-83 rout of the Phoenix Suns in their NBA season opener on Wednesday night.
Ja Morant Debuts for Blazers After Offseason Trade
The game also marked the Portland debut of offseason addition Ja Morant, who contributed 14 points and eight assists. Morant was acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies in a trade that saw Jerami Grant and Kris Murray depart from the Trail Blazers roster.
Blazers Command Early Lead and Extend Margin
Portland set the tone early, jumping out to a 21-0 lead before the Suns scored their first points on free throws with 5:54 left in the first quarter. The Blazers’ early momentum was fueled by three-pointers from Lillard, Morant, Deni Avdija, and Donovan Clingan. By halftime, Portland led 72-39, and the scoring onslaught continued into the second half, with the Blazers holding a lead as large as 52 points during the game.
Toumani Camara and Deni Avdija Shine
Toumani Camara added 18 points for Portland, further bolstering the team’s offense. Deni Avdija, who entered the game as a game-time decision due to a right ankle injury, started for the Blazers and recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds. Avdija had been a breakout player in the previous season, averaging 24.2 points per game.
Damian Lillard’s Return to Portland After Injury
Lillard returned to the Trail Blazers after two seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, having spent his first eleven NBA seasons in Portland. He rejoined the Blazers in the summer of 2025 but missed last season while rehabbing from a torn Achilles tendon. His return marks a significant moment for the team, as they look to build on snapping a five-year postseason drought last season.
Changes on the Trail Blazers Roster and Coaching Staff
The Blazers underwent notable changes in the offseason. In addition to acquiring Ja Morant, they hired Micah Nori as head coach following the departure of Tiago Splitter, who took over after Chauncey Billups’ arrest in an alleged gambling scheme, and subsequently left for the Chicago Bulls. Nori, previously an assistant with the Minnesota Timberwolves, pulled Portland’s starters early in the final quarter, securing the win and giving playing time to the bench.
Suns’ Offense Struggles Against Blazers’ Defense
Devin Booker led the Suns with 23 points in his 12th NBA season. However, the Suns struggled offensively, shooting just 36 percent from the field and making only 6 of 31 three-point attempts.
Looking Ahead
The Trail Blazers’ decisive win marks an impressive start to the new NBA campaign, with fans eager to see how the revamped Trail Blazers roster led by Lillard, Morant, and Nori will fare throughout the season.
Source: koin.com.
