Damian Lillard should already be considered the greatest player in Portland Trail Blazers history.
He’s led the team to the playoffs seven times in 10 seasons, with the lone exception of his rookie year, an injury-riddled season, and last year’s campaign with a bottom-feeding team.
He holds multiple franchise records, and as StatMuse just pointed out, he only trails Clyde Drexler in seasons played in franchise history.
Lillard holds career averages of 25.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.1 three-pointers per game, establishing himself as one of the greatest shooters and pure scorers in the history of this game and someone who can single-handedly will his team to the postseason with little or no help.
Dame in Portland:
25.2 PPG
6.7 APG
3.1 3PMOnly Clyde Drexler has played more seasons as a Trail Blazer. pic.twitter.com/weLcev0zZX
— StatMuse (@statmuse) June 23, 2023
That’s why it’s about time the franchise finally pays him back and does right by him.
He’s made plenty of money, and he definitely won’t complain about that, but the team also needs to set him free and allow him to play somewhere he can actually play for an NBA championship.
Lillard is one of the best players of his generation, yet he’s constantly snubbed in MVP or major award consideration, mostly because of the small market he plays in.
He’s arguably the best clutch scorer in the game, and his range from beyond the arc only compares to Stephen Curry’s.
Lillard’s loyalty and determination to win in Rip City have been admirable and remarkable.
But he’s just being stubborn at this point, and no one would judge him if he chose to pursue the ultimate glory somewhere else; he’s earned that right already.
NEXT: Analyst Says Damian Lillard Has Failed The Blazers
