In an unexpected move, the Milwaukee Bucks have waived star point guard Damian Lillard, fueling widespread speculation about his next team. This decision, made to accommodate Myles Turner’s substantial $109 million contract from the Indiana Pacers, has generated intense discussion across the basketball world. Fans and analysts alike are now eager to see where Lillard, a nine-time All-Star, will continue his career.
Could the Dallas Mavericks Be Lillard’s Next Home?
At first glance, the Dallas Mavericks might seem an unlikely destination for Damian Lillard, especially since they already boast star guard Kyrie Irving. However, with Irving currently sidelined due to a lower body injury, questions emerge regarding the team’s backcourt depth, making Lillard a conceivable addition. Beyond immediate roster needs, Lillard’s prior connections with the Mavericks organization hint at a promising fit.
During the 2021 season, while playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, Lillard openly endorsed Jason Kidd for the Mavericks’ head coaching position. Although the franchise ultimately hired Chauncey Billups, Kidd eventually took the helm in Dallas, bringing championship experience as a former player and title winner in 2011. Moreover, Lillard voiced support for Nico Harrison’s appointment as Dallas’ general manager that same year, reinforcing his positive ties to the team’s leadership.
Mavericks’ Current Strengths and Potential Impact of Lillard’s Addition
Despite navigating the challenges of Irving’s injury and roster reshuffling following the Luka Doncic–Anthony Davis trade led by Harrison, the Mavericks remain a strong playoff contender. The emergence of young talent like Cooper Flagg adds depth and promise to the squad’s lineup. Introducing Lillard into this mix could be transformative, even if his initial role involves coming off the bench while recovering from his Achilles injury.
The prospect of pairing Lillard alongside Doncic and Irving forms an impressive trio, capable of significantly boosting Dallas’ offensive firepower. Such a lineup has the potential to alter the team’s trajectory and elevate their postseason success, generating excitement among fans and analysts about what this combination could achieve.
Lillard’s Exit Marks a New Chapter for Both Him and the Mavericks
As the basketball world absorbs the news of Damian Lillard’s release from the Bucks, attention turns to the unfolding narrative of his future. The speculation connecting “Dame Time” to Dallas is not merely conjecture but a tangible storyline that could develop in the near future. If Lillard does join the Mavericks, it would signal a significant shift in the NBA landscape, affecting both his career path and Dallas’ championship ambitions.