There are many people who are frankly shocked by the fact that Damian Lillard is still playing for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Lillard has been one of the best point guards in the league for years now, while the Blazers have continued to struggle.
He would be welcomed by just about any other team in the league – and would surely get a huge payday – but Lillard has stayed loyal to Portland.
What gives?
Damian Lillard explains his loyalty to Portland
“I’d hate to be in another place and be like, ‘Dang, this is how you operate? Then, I’m stuck there.’”
(Via @MikeAScotto ) pic.twitter.com/VfYXQs8qYe
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) December 1, 2022
The star player recently touched upon his desire to stick around in Rose City, and his fear of leaving for another team.
“I’d hate to be in another place and be like, ‘Dang, this is how you operate? Then, I’m stuck there,” Lillard said.
It seems his desire to remain where he’s at revolves around his love of the team, the franchise, and the city, as well as his fear that he could end up on a team that doesn’t work as he wants, making him unhappy with his new squad.
Lillard Leaving?
For the past few seasons, people have expected a trade request to come out of Lillard’s camp but it hasn’t happened.
Instead, the All-Star has remained steadfast in his determination to fight hard with Portland and get them deep into the playoffs.
The team has made it to the Western Conference Finals but their postseasons have lately been very disappointing.
However, they got off to a great start this season, even rising to the top of the Western Conference.
But things have gotten rockier for Portland lately and the team is currently 11-11 after their loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday.
Lillard has been out with an injury but is set to return in a few days and the team is hoping to turn things around.
If not, you can expect to hear the age-old rumors about his departure rising to the surface again.
NEXT: The Trail Blazers Are Ready For Their All-Star's Return