Damian Lillard, the former Portland Trail Blazers and Milwaukee Bucks star point guard, continues to be one of the most notable players available in this year’s free agency, even though many top names have already secured new contracts. Lillard is recovering from a torn Achilles injury sustained during last season’s first-round playoffs and is expected to miss most, if not all, of the upcoming season.
His availability comes after the Milwaukee Bucks stunned the NBA community by waiving Lillard earlier this summer to clear a roster spot for Myles Turner. This unexpected move left Lillard on the market and raised questions about his future destination within the league.
Golden State Warriors Emerge as a Potential Landing Spot
Among the teams linked to Lillard, including his former team the Trail Blazers, there is a surprising new contender in the Western Conference: the Golden State Warriors. According to reports from Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Warriors are reportedly among Lillard’s preferred destinations.
This development is significant given that Lillard hails from Oakland, making a return to his hometown team appealing on a personal level. However, there remain uncertainties about how well Lillard’s playing style would mesh alongside the Warriors’ current star, Stephen Curry.
The Potential Impact of a Curry-Lillard Partnership
A backcourt featuring both Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard could instantly become one of the most potent offensive duos in the league once Lillard recovers. Last season, Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and just over one steal per game, while shooting nearly 45% from the field and close to 38% from three-point range.
Pairing Lillard with Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green would form a new big four for Golden State, potentially positioning the team as serious championship contenders in the near future.
Despite this promising outlook, the Warriors could hesitate on pursuing Lillard due to concerns about his injury and the financial commitment it would require in free agency. The final decision may hinge on whether the strength and fit of this group outweigh the risks involved.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Damian Lillard loyal?
A. Lillard is a unique basketball player who values staying true to his city and team, even if it means long waits for a championship shot.