Despite his continued commitment to the Portland Trail Blazers franchise, Portland Trail Blazer star Damian Lillard is no stranger to trade rumors. There have always been reports linking him with a Portland exit, and some of those reports surfaced after the Portland Trail Blazers lost in the first round of the playoffs. Damian Lillard hasn’t requested a trade yet, but that could always change in the future.
While the possibility of Damian Lillard leaving the Portland Trail Blazers prior to next season exists, it seems as though he has ruled out one destination. Damian Lillard recently responded on Twitter to a fan who was willing to bet that the Lakers would be able to get Damian Lillard before the 2021-22 NBA season. Damian Lillard however, seems to be willing to bet serious money on the fact that he will not be a Laker in the near future.
Bet a Million. https://t.co/CloZY3Iq4c
— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) August 12, 2021
At this point, it doesn’t seem necessary for the Los Angeles Lakers to get Damian Lillard. They just acquired Russell Westbrook with a trade, and it seems as though they don’t need another point guard.
On top of that, the Los Angeles Lakers’ cap situation would likely prevent them from getting Damian Lillard via trade, unless they were willing to trade away one of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, or Russell Westbrook. That isn’t likely to happen, as the Lakers trio haven’t even played one minute on the court together. While it may be fun to think about a partnership of LeBron James and Damian Lillard, it seems as though that isn’t in the cards, at least this season.
Damian Lillard has been loyal to the franchise that drafted him, and he is a bonafide superstar that can carry a huge load on the offensive end. Despite his talent, the Portland Trail Blazers haven’t been able to seriously contend over the last few seasons, though they did make the Western Conference Finals during the 2018-19 season. Hopefully, the Portland Trail Blazers are able to compete in the future and make the most of Lillard’s prime.
