Damian Lillard Shut Down Rumors Of Him Joining The Lakers: “The Lakers Just Traded For Russell Westbrook”

Perhaps no superstar has been the subject of more trade rumors over the last few seasons than Damian Lillard. Lillard is a superstar in the NBA, and one of the most sought-after players in the league.

Several teams have been linked with a move for Lillard. Despite the fact that he has said on numerous occasions that he is happy in Portland and wants to win an NBA championship there.

But fans believe that Lillard’s ultimate desire for a championship won’t be fulfilled in Portland, and he will eventually leave the Trail Blazers. This offseason, the point guard has been linked with several teams, like the Lakers, 76ers, and the Knicks.

But a move never actually materialized. While these rumors circulated, Lillard continued to insist that his intention was to play for the Blazers and that he did not want to leave his franchise.

The team that was linked to Lillard the most was the Los Angeles Lakers. After their collapse in the 2021 NBA Playoffs, there were rumors that the Lakers wanted to form a Big 3.

And the Lakers did that. Just not with Damian Lillard. The Lakers traded Kyle Kuzma, KCP, and Montrezl Harrell to the Wizards to land former MVP Russell Westbrook. Westbrook will be the third option for the Lakers next season.

And thus, any chance to land Damian Lillard ended. And now, Lillard has made it very clear that he isn’t joining the Lakers.

In an interview with Complex News (swipe to 2nd slide below), Lillard spoke about fan speculation about him joining the Lakers. Given that Lillard and Westbrook play the same position, there is no chance that he can or will join the Lakers.

“He said he would bet anybody that when the season started, Dame’s gonna be playing for the Lakers. And the Lakers just traded for Russell Westbrook. So, I’m not gonna be playing for the Lakers, we play the same position.”