Damian Lillard is known for his loyalty to the Portland Trail Blazers. His basketball ability is not in doubt in the slightest, but his commitment to staying with the team that drafted him and winning a championship is what has set him apart in the modern era. Lillard recently signed a massive 2-year deal with the Blazers, with some questioning if he did it only because he cares about making as much money as he can.
However, Lillard’s history with the Blazers has shown that he cares deeply about the city and the franchise. There is also nothing inherently wrong with making money and taking care of your family’s future. Shannon Sharpe, speaking about Lillard’s situation, spoke about how the star point guard won’t have any regrets even if he cannot get the championship he has been chasing his entire career.
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“Lillard says being loyal to the soil is more important to him than chasing a championship,” Sharpe said. “If he doesn’t win a title, I don’t think Dame will have any regrets. … He’s done what he’s set out to do, and that’s to secure his family for the rest of their lives, and their kids’ lives.”
The Blazers have made some moves this offseason, acquiring Jerami Grant as someone to back Lillard up. The franchise wasn’t in the playoffs last season but it was only so they could quickly rebuild and have a contending roster that can take care of business come the final stretch of the season.
Lillard has it all in his hands at the moment, if he takes his game to the next level., the sky is the limit for the Trail Blazers. A player of his quality definitely deserves to retire with a ring, but even if he doesn’t, his stint in the NBA will be remembered fondly by most people, not just Blazers fans.
