Feb 10, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) controls the ball as Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) guards in the first quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images / Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

During Portland’s recent run of strong play, which saw them go 10-1, Deandre Ayton was playing his best basketball since joining the Trail Blazers. In his last 10 games, Ayton has averaged 17.1 points on 57.3% shooting a night, grabbing 10.2 rebounds, and adding 1.2 blocks.

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Deandre Ayton's unfortunate left calf strain has a silver lining as it opens the door for potential long-term changes for the Portland Trail Blazers.

Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton, who is averaging 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds this season, will miss at least four weeks with a left calf strain.

Will ascendant Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton suit up against three-time MVP Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic on Wednesday night? Per the Trail Blazers' official public relations X account,

The Portland Trail Blazers are facing the Charlotte Hornets at home in Portland’s second game back after the NBA All-Star break. The Blazers have lost four straight games, including a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night.