The Portland Trail Blazers’ offense has been a touchy subject all season. They are a strong team when they are on form, but that is when the offense is clicking. This season, they have relied on Deni Avdija‘s playmaking and Shaedon Sharpe‘s performance to set the tone.

Sharpe’s Performance Sets The Tone For The Blazers’ Offense

The 2025-26 season has been an interesting campaign for the Portland Trail Blazers. They have shown a lot of potential with the current roster, especially on offense. Deni Avdija has emerged as a true All-Star with his versatility as a scorer and playmaker.

Shaedon Sharpe has also become an even better player this season. However, there are times when he is a mixed bag. A good example of this is his standout night against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday. That contrasts with his lackluster night against the Boston Celtics the night before.

While Avdija is the team’s current best player, Sharpe sets the tone for Portland. If he is not playing well, the rest of the Blazers are not playing as well as they would like. Acting head Tiago Splitter would prefer if Sharpe plays more consistently.

Sharpe’s Role In The Blazers’ Offense

For the most part, Avdija is the consensus number one option for the Blazers. He is averaging the most points while having the ball most of the time. However, Sharpe is not the typical second option. When he is on fire, Splitter and the Blazers know to give him the ball to capitalize on his form.

Most elite teams need a player who can be a tough shotmaker.  Sharpe is that kind of player for the Trail Blazers’ offense. He loves taking and making those tough shots, especially from the mid-range area.

shae with the FLARE. pic.twitter.com/zBi9IceVf1

— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) January 28, 2026

Sharpe’s performance level relies on his ability to drive and finish at the rim. His combination of athleticism and touch has made him one of the NBA’s best slashers. This effectiveness has continued to improve the Blazers’ long-term future.

Sharpe is also good when moving off the ball. He is a natural with his cuts, and his spot-up shooting is also decent. Sharpe is shooting 34.2% from beyond the arc, which is the highest it has been since his rookie year. Now, he is putting it all together while averaging 21.8 points per game.

Avdija’s Playmaking Can Get The Most Out Of Sharpe

The Blazers’ offense has a high ceiling, especially with Avdija serving as a primary playmaker. He has been a phenomenal first option for Portland, but he has also opened up possibilities for his teammates.

Sharpe and players like Caleb Love and Donovan Clingan have benefited from having Avdija pass them the ball. His aggressive driving into the paint has led to many free throws, but also drop passes.

Throughout the season, Sharpe has been a huge beneficiary of this. His smart cuts have led to him getting dunks and spot-up three-pointers. Splitter’s system can maximize everyone’s skill set, but they also have to be more efficient with their decisions.

Avdija’s playmaking elevates the Blazers to a high level. With his passing and reliable scoring, everyone is better off. It is up to the players to be efficient. They can win more games through their offense rather than scrapping out results.

Sharpe Has Some Improvements To Make On Offense

While Sharpe has been stellar for the most part, there are some gaps in his game. His affinity for tough shots can lead to some problems with the offense. He can be a ball-stopper at times, limiting the Blazers’ effectiveness.

Everyone knows that Sharpe has a unique ability to hit the tough shots. However, he needs to tone it down and focus on his strengths. Driving to the paint is probably his best asset, so he needs to do it more.

SHAEDAWAY (admin will never stop using this term) pic.twitter.com/pdigZ14NnG

— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) January 28, 2026

There is another issue there because he is also a bit reckless with his ball-handling. Sharpe needs to tighten that part of his game so he can drive into the paint with his elite finishing. Alongside his dribbling, his upper body strength also needs some work, so he can withstand contact.

The Blazers’ offense is much better when Sharpe is firing on all cylinders. However, he can be much better if he is more efficient with his decision-making. That can go far, as the Blazers can be stronger with a confident Sharpe, who is also making good decisions.

© Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images