Monday was a memorable night for the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite losing the game to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Damian Lillard broke the franchise record for points scored, surpassing Clyde Drexler late in the third quarter on a free throw. It was a special moment, even while doing so in a rival NBA team’s arena.
Lillard has remained steadfast in his desire to help turn the Trail Blazers into a contender, deciding against requesting a trade when the opportunity presented itself and always re-signing with the team when his contract was up. He has not teamed up with other superstars on other teams and has wanted to see things through.
While that may not result in championship success, there is something special about playing your entire career with one franchise, which Lillard seems destined to do. He has been an advocate for that and is now sharing some words of advice for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Gilgeous-Alexander is having a breakout season with the Thunder, averaging a career-high 31.3 points per game to go along with 5.8 assists, 4.6 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. He made the game-winning shot to defeat Portland on Monday night, one of many highlights that he has put together this season.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Many people believe that Gilgeous-Alexander could be the next young star to be on the move. The Thunder, perpetually rebuilding, are winning more games this season than in recent years, but they are still unlikely to make a playoff push.
Some have pinpointed that as a reason Gilgeous-Alexander could look to leave Oklahoma City. But, Lillard offered some words of advice to him following Monday’s matchup, hinting at remaining with the Thunder possibly being the best course of action.
“He’s in a situation where he’s playing free. … He’s got a group of guys that understand he’s the leader, he’s the guy. … His career is in a great position. … I’d say the grass is not always greener on the other side…”
That is sound advice from Lillard, who knows the temptation of going to another franchise can be a strong one. But, sometimes riding things out with the franchise you know can be more rewarding.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Oklahoma City is in an excellent spot with the high-upside young players they have and all of the draft capital. They are in a position to add talent around Gilgeous-Alexander instead of him seeking to leave and team up with players elsewhere.
