Damian Lillard’s request to be traded from the Portland Trail Blazers sent major reverberations throughout the NBA.
For years, Lillard had been arguably the most loyal superstar in the league.
He did everything in his power to remain in Portland for a lot longer than many of his counterparts would have.
So what changed?
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Lillard was simply burned by the Blazers one too many times.
“Lillard was still hopeful that the Blazers would find the kind of deal that would make him want to stay. But nothing of substance would emerge,” he reported.
The end of the line came when free agency commenced.
“When the Blazers had a quiet first night of free agency, re-signing forward Jerami Grant on a five-year, $160 million deal but failing to add any new players, that was the unofficial end,” Amick continued.
“Then after a late-night phone conversation with Blazers coach Chauncey Billups in which they discussed the unfortunate state of affairs, Lillard made up his mind: It was time to leave Portland for [the] Miami [Heat].”
The issue at hand currently is that Miami’s trade proposal for Lillard is atrocious.
Because of that, the Blazers have taken a very firm stance on how this process will unfold going forward.
The Heat may want Lillard, but their means of attaining him are slim. They simply lack the assets.
In recent days, a three-team trade involving two other teams centered around Lillard has begun to circulate. On paper, it means a ton more sense.
There is also a dark horse contender for Lillard’s services circling in the background, waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
The only watchable thing about the Arizona Cardinals. https://t.co/xVvPYIDRKu
— Game 7 (@game7__) July 4, 2023
One way or another, Lillard looks like he will be playing elsewhere come next season.
He gave the Blazers every chance to retain him – but the front office blew it. Time after time after time.
Where will Lillard be playing come the beginning of next season? Time will tell.
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Jennifer Withers Hoey is a former Business Development Manager who transitioned to writing about sports. With valuable connections all over the West Coast, she has used those contacts to break some of the most interesting stories pertaining to the Portland Trail Blazers, Oregon Ducks, LA Lakers, LA Clippers, Seattle Supersonics (RIP), and more.
