PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 08: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers looks on before the game against the Orlando Magic at Moda Center on February 08, 2022 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Portland TrailBlazers star Damian Lillard linked to LA Lakers ahead of trade deadline
Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard is once again rumoured with a move to LA Lakers in a deal involving Russell Westbrook.
Lillard, who has been with the franchise since 2012 has failed to win an NBA Championship. The Lakers could be the perfect destination for him, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis delivering success in 2020. However, Russell Westbrook who joined this season is tipped to be traded once again.
Lillard also revealed that he had a meeting with James and Davis during the 2021 NBA offseason. “‘Bron asked what I was thinking with my situation, and I told him what I’m telling you: that I just want to be in a position to win it all. He didn’t tell me to come to L.A., and he didn’t say anything to me that I didn’t already know other than what it could look like.” he told YahooSport.
The rumours intensified after the Trail Blazers sent CJ McCollum to the New Orleans Pelicans. The duo were the heart of the Portland Team for over 7 years. However, Lillard has also spoken about his love for his current team and his wish to win a title with the Blazers.
Lillard is also given the backing of the GM by acquiring Chauncey Billups as head coach. Despite the hope, the Blazers have failed miserably and are on course to be knocked out before the NBA Playoffs. The Lakers will benefit from the deal, which would be a perfect addition to the roster.
Westbrook has failed miserably this term and has been benched in the fourth quarter on multiple occasions. He is in his worst form for over a decade. However, the Blazers plan to keep Lillard and rebuild the roster around him with an increase in draft capital and cap space.
Lillard has been in the NBA for his 10th consecutive season. The last time the Blazers won the NBA title was back in the 1976-1977 season. Since then, they have reached the Conference Finals, but were eliminated in convincing fashion.
Despite the Lakers deal being an interesting prospect, Lillard is likely to give it a shot with his beloved team. Lakers will be moaning the decision to prefer Westbrook. But, we never know in today’s world if Lillard ends up with the most successful NBA team in history before his retirement.
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