The Portland Trail Blazers and Oklahoma City Thunder are set to square off in the first round of the Western Conference Playoffs. It appears point guard Damian Lillard is already looking forward to his matchup with point guard Russell Westbrook.
Both have long been considered two of the elite points guards in the NBA. According to Jason Quick of The Athletic, Lillard expects there to be a little extra motivation on Westbrook's end:
“There’s something there,” Lillard said of the tension between the teams. “There’s something there. When Russ see me, and when I see him, it’s two dogs fighting. That’s what it is. I think it will be a great series.”
Damian Lillard's comments are certainly understandable considering all the similarities between these two teams.
Despite all their star power, the Blazers and the Thunder have spent the last several years on the outside looking in. Both teams are now looking to take that next step in the postseason.
There is no question that each team's success will rely heavily on the play of their point guards. Westbrook is coming off yet another historic campaign. Unfortunately, it was spoiled by Oklahoma city's lackluster play down the final stretch of the season.
Meanwhile, Lillard is coming off another career year in Portland, however, it will mean nothing if the Blazers are knocked out of the first round for the third year in a row.
While they may each have a star player they can depend on, it will be interesting to see which elite point guard ultimately comes out on top.
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