With seven-time All-Star and former first-team All-NBA member Damian Lillard only having a few more years left of his prime, the point guard’s future in his home in Portland may be in question with the Trailblazers’ playoff hopes dwindling.
The 32-year-old floor general was arguably having the best season of his career thus far, averaging 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per contest.
Lillard has been considered one of the most loyal players in the NBA due to his ability to stick with the same team through thick and thin. However, “Dame Dolla” didn’t mince words when asked about being part of a rebuilding roster when asked during a recent press conference. With Lillard now possibly leaving after this year, may now lead to a larger cycle of players switching teams.
“That’s not what I’m interested in,” Lillard said of rebuilding on Mar. 21. “That’s what the frustrating part of it is. Talking about what’s gonna happen next season. And us ‘building’. That’s not what I’m here to do, especially at this stage of my career”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard & Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Contrary to previous seasons with veteran pieces to the team such as C.J McCollum and LaMarcus Aldridge, Lillard is now the oldest player on the roster full of younger and inexperienced talent.
Should the Blazers’ leader find another home, a team will have to make a trade as Lillard is currently under contract through the 2024-25 season. Another team will also have to pay over $45 million a year for Lillard until he is 34 years old.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard & Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Lillard’s press conference response may now lead to the Blazers now potentially trading their next projected high first-round pick for another veteran player in order to appease Lillards need to stay in Portland.
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