Damian Lillard has been one of the most talked about names in the NBA this offseason. The only player that may have been talked about more is Philadelphia 76ers disgruntled star Ben Simmons. Rumors have been flying about Lillard’s future with the Portland Trail Blazers, with many believing that Lillard will be traded at some point in the near future.
Despite all of the trade rumors, Lillard has decided to remain with the Trail Blazers. He will at least start the 2021-22 NBA season in Portland, although that could change if the team struggles to start the year.
In a league full of stars teaming up and forming “super teams,” Lillard has stayed loyal to the city of Portland. He has remained steadfast in his goal of bringing a championship to the Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, the Blazers have been unable to bring in enough talent around him to make that happen.
Even though there is uncertainty regarding Lillard’s future in Portland, one NBA executive spoke to NBA Analysis Network about his future and believes that he should remain with the Trail Blazers.
“Damian Lillard is one the most loyal players that the league has seen in a long time. Players are always looking to join forces with each other to win a championship and very few want to stick with the team that drafted them going up against all of those elite contenders. Honestly, I hope he stays in Portland, and that the franchise can put a winner around him. He’s a rare breed and it would be a breath of fresh air to see him stick to those morals.”
Just a few short years ago, Lillard led the Trail Blazers to the Western Conference Finals. They ended up losing to the stacked Golden State Warriors super team. Since then, the Blazers have in the first round of the postseason in back-to-back years.
Lillard put together another masterful performance last season. He ended the season averaging 28.8 points per game to go along with 7.5 assists and 4.2 rebounds. In addition to those numbers, Lillard shot 45.1 percent from the floor overall and knocked down 39.1 percent of his three-point attempts.
At 31 years of age, the clock is ticking on Lillard being able to bring an NBA Finals win to the Trail Blazers. He feels that pressure, which has caused all of the rumors to begin flying around. Lillard may or may not leave Portland, but there are many who would love to see him avoid trying to join a super team.
Expect to continue hearing a ton of rumors surrounding Damian Lillard and his future with the Trail Blazers in the coming months. We have not come close to hearing the last of this situation.
Want the latest news on NBA trade talks or free agency rumors? Want analysis on your favorite team? Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and NewsBreak for the latest news, rumors, and analysis from around the league.
