Damian Lillard is, no doubt, among this season’s top MVP candidates. Leading the Blazers to the 6th best record in the West, he’s averaging 30.3 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game on 45.5% shooting.
But what really separates him from the rest? According to his teammate and co-star, C.J. McCollum, it’s his willingness to just be himself.
“I think he is unapologetically himself, which is important,” started of McCollum. “If he don’t like you, he don’t like you. When he’s going to compete, he competes. And when he goes home, he takes care of his family and does what needs to be done.
“I think from a work ethic standpoint, it’s obvious he works on his craft because of how consistent he is but then because of how he is able to evolve. From his passing to his court vision to his understanding of how to manipulate defense to his range, to his movements. Like everything is precise, and it’s not like it’s random.”
Obviously, Dame’s talent is elite. He can score anywhere on the floor with ease, and has a way of leading his team that has become famous among the community
But, more than anything, Lillard stays true to who he is — a hard worker and competitor who will do anything to meet his goal. Whether it’s leading his team into battle and keeping toxicity out of the locker room, he sets a tone for Portland that has seeped into their culture as a franchise.
He is truly one of basketball’s elites, and it’s a wonder where Portland would be without him.
