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Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard failed to voice his desire to stay with the organization long-term in a recent interview post-game. Lillard was asked about a story from Yahoo NBA insider Chris Haynes, who wrote about Dame's somewhat cloudy future with the Blazers.
Haynes and Lillard are relatively close friends, which makes one think that a message is potentially being relayed through the writer.
Nevertheless, Lillard reacted to the article in a very professional manner, per the New York Post:
“I took it for what it was,’’ Lillard said. “That’s [Haynes’] thoughts. I was kind of — what word should I use – not irritated with him because he’s a writer and that’s what he does. But I know because of our relationship people would assume I was tied to the story. That was the only thing that bothered me about it.’’
Obviously, the cornerstone of the Blazers franchise doesn't want anyone speculating that he could potentially want out in the not too distant future. But in fairness, a player of Lillard's caliber deserves a shot at winning a title.
Portland has struggled to really get anywhere in the postseason, despite building around Dame. They brought in Norman Powell at the deadline which has added a spark to the offense, but this team is still clawing away at a playoff spot.
Lillard basically kept the Blazers afloat for most of the season as CJ McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic were sidelined with injuries, averaging an impressive 28.3 points per game and 7.5 dimes.
The former Weber State standout also pointed out that he has a strong relationship with GM Neil Olshey, which is certainly a positive sign in terms of staying with the organization long-term:
I lean on the fact me and Neil, we have a conversation, I know I can have a conversation and walk through the door and tell him whatever I think,’’ Lillard said.
For now, Dame will be looking to finish the season strong and solidify his team's spot in the play-in or hopefully, the top-six in the West. But, you'd have to imagine winning championships is certainly on his mind and that doesn't look like it will ever happen with the Blazers.
