Damian Lillard spoke with NBA reporter Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report about getting traded by the Portland Trail Blazers to the Milwaukee Bucks.
“I’m just letting it sink in,” Lillard said. “I’m just trying to process it all. It’s a lot to think about. Never been in this situation before.”
Lillard requested a trade from the Blazers to the Miami Heat on July 1. However, the Blazers refused to engage with the Heat.
“How this summer played out behind the scenes definitely left a sour taste in my mouth,” Lillard said. “But it doesn’t change the amazing experiences I’ve had with the Trail Blazers and this city. I’ll always cherish this place. This is my home. I’ll always live here regardless.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Once Lillard was convinced that joining the Heat was virtually impossible, he became open to the prospect of playing for the Bucks and Brooklyn Nets. The Blazers traded Lillard to the Bucks in a three-team deal that sent Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, a 2029 first-round Bucks pick and two Bucks pick swaps in 2028 and 2030 to Portland. Meanwhile, Jusuf Nurkic, Nassir Little, Keon Johnson and Grayson Allen were traded to the Phoenix Suns.
The Bucks now have a Big 3 of Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. Lillard is looking forward to playing with Antetokounmpo.
“My whole life I’ve been on underdog teams and if we had a good season, we overachieved. Now I’ll be able to play with a player that’s better than me and to be a part of a great overall team is a dream come true,” Lillard said. “That’s never been my experience. It’s time for me to be in this situation. And knowing myself enough, I’m going to take advantage of it. I’m excited for this opportunity.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Lillard averaged 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists last season. He has career NBA averages of 25.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.7 assists.
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