Damian Lillard did all he could. But when it came down to it, he was out of gas as the Denver Nuggets defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. The Trail Blazers have now lost in the first round in four of the last five years. Lillard expressed a bit of post-game frustration Thursday night, suggesting the team needed to “go back to the drawing board” this offseason.
Lillard has been fiercely loyal to Portland. He’s been consistent in saying he has no desire to join up with another star or two on a “super team.” But the pieces around him have never quite come together, due at times to injuries and at other times inconsistency. So his frustration is worthy. It’s just a question if it leads anywhere. Will he try to force his way out?
Lillard is now entering the first year of the four-year max extension he signed with the Trail Blazers in 2019. He’ll also turn 31 in July. But he’s been durable, he’s clutch and he’s one of the best players in the NBA. If he were available, teams would be burning up the phones to try and get Lillard.
On Friday morning’s “First Take”, via the New York Post, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith reported “six or seven teams” have already called the Trail Blazers about trading for Lillard. Three have been named. The New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat.
If Portland is going to trade someone notable, Lillard’s backcourt mate CJ McCollum feels more likely. But Lillard is the more desirable player. In particular, the Knicks could appeal to him as a landing spot. Knicks assistant coach Johnnie Bryant is close to Lillard. The Heat always chase stars, so they can’t be ruled out of a pursuit. The Clippers could use a point guard who has offensive acumen, as tough as a deal would be for them to make. As for the 3-4 unnamed teams, let’s speculate some on who they could be.
1-Los Angeles Lakers
2-San Antonio Spurs
3-Chicago Bulls
4-Dallas Mavericks
If he wasn’t already, Lillard is now a player to watch this offseason. His future may very well be in another uniform, starting immediately.
