No One Should Blame Damian Lillard if He Asks for a Trade: Unchecked

Damian Lillard can't be blamed if he asks for a trade following the Blazers loss to Nuggets.

Damian Lillard has given his all to the Portland Trail Blazers, and at this point, no one should blame him if he asks for a trade.

Damian Lillard on IG pic.twitter.com/PtKIOH0wJH

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 4, 2021

That’s not to say he needs to. There is actually something very cool about him being defined by one franchise and developing the clutch reputation he has even if it never results in a ring. He could attempt to give the Blazers a chance to retool, as there’s no one else on the roster who isn’t expendable in doing so.

Damian Lillard on if the Blazers need changes this offseason: "Obviously where we are isn't good enough to win a championship if it's not good enough to get out of a first round series with two of their best three or four players not on the floor." pic.twitter.com/gbXkqDko0s

— Royce Young (@royceyoung) June 4, 2021

If I’m a Portland fan, I’d certainly rather watch Dame get eliminated early every season until he’s done, rather than go through a rebuild right now.

Damian Lillard became the 4th player in NBA history with 200 points and 60 assists in a playoff series, joining LeBron James, Jerry West and Oscar Robertson.

Lillard was the only one to accomplish the feat in 6 games. pic.twitter.com/4Y279RCTta

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 4, 2021

However, if Lillard is at the phase of his career where checking off a championship is the biggest goal he has left, I don’t think that will ever happen with the Blazers. Even if they were to deal CJ McCollum, I simply don’t see Portland having the assets it takes to put together a true contender.

Damian Lillard had 35 threes in the first round — the most ever in a playoff series.

(Submitted by @MikoPalero) pic.twitter.com/1iPMdeqteJ

— StatMuse (@statmuse) June 4, 2021

So, if he’s had enough of putting up 55 points in a loss, or averaging 34 points and hitting more threes than anyone ever has in a playoff series and still being sent home, then he may need to find a new one.

Hey @Dame_Lillard it’s time brother! You have done enough for that organization bro! It’s time for you to take your talents else where! The @Lakers or @celtics would be a great fit for you. Carry on... IMOP

— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) June 4, 2021

After nine seasons and eight postseason eliminations, Lillard has already proven his loyalty to the franchise, and has obviously done his best with the Blazers. And thus, no one should be mad if Dame thinks it’s time for a trade.