There is a reason why Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers is known as one of the most loyal players in the NBA.
The iconic guard has had plenty of chances to ditch the Blazers during their marathon of tough seasons but he’s stuck with them through thick and thin and has repeatedly said he lives and breathes Portland no matter what.
He’s also always been devoted to his teammates again and again.
Lillard has been particularly close with CJ McCollum, who was his right-hand man until recently when the Blazers traded him to the New Orleans Pelicans.
As expected, Lillard is still taking the loss of McCollum quite hard.
Dame has watched all of CJ McCollum's games since he was traded to the Pelicans.
H/T The Draymond Green Show. pic.twitter.com/BHhyvjuKvu
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) February 23, 2022
Speaking to The Draymond Green Show, Lillard opened up about his reaction to seeing McCollum play for a new team.
“Damn…he really ain’t coming back,” Lillard said upon watching McCollum suit up for the Pelicans instead of the Blazers.
Lillard’s loyalty is admirable – but is it going to run out?
Lillard Leaving?
Will he or won’t he?
That is the question that’s been swirling around Lillard for a couple of seasons now – and it’s actually being asked more now that McCollum is gone.
Lillard is far, far better than the team he plays for and rumors suggest he’s had enough of them losing.
No one would be surprised if Lillard finally throws his hands up in the air this offseason and asks to be traded.
However, the loss of McCollum is actually part of a plan to keep Lillard in place.
Getting rid of McCollum is part of a process Portland started to gain more money – money that could lead to bigger assets on the team.
Therefore, while the loss really hurts it could result in Lillard finally getting help.
But will the help come soon enough or will Lillard have walked by then?
NEXT: Damian Lillard Remains Loyal To His Former Teammate