© Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports
Damian Lillard shrugs off past issues with Pat Beverley, says winning an NBA title is more important
Milwaukee Bucks superstar Damian Lillard and now teammate Patrick Beverley haven't been friendly on and off the floor in recent years, their beef stemming from the intense battles they've had while playing on different teams in the Western Conference. The two players, who now share the same goal of winning an NBA title on the Bucks, are ready to bury the hatchet and focus on their common objective.
Pat brings an edge needed to win an NBA title
Lillard and Beverley have crossed paths many times while the former was repping the Portland Trail Blazers and the latter suiting up for the Los Angeles Clippers. With Beverley often being responsible for guarding Dame, the two have engaged in physical and verbal spats on the court. However, with both now donning Milwaukee colors, they understand that their past differences must be put aside for the greater good.
"First, I want to say I'm sad to see Cam go," Lillard said, referring to Cam Payne, the man the Bucks sent to Philadelphia to get Beverley.
"We developed a friendship that I cherish. As for Pat, he brings an edge and a defensive tenacity on the perimeter that we need. There are not many players who bring it on a nightly like him. I look forward to working together."
Have to make amends
On Beverley's end, he expressed on his podcast the need to repair any previous tensions with Lillard.
"I gotta get my relationship right with Dame… It's time to win a championship," the 35-year-old guard said.
Beverley's arrival in Milwaukee will help bolster a Bucks defense that has resembled Swiss cheese all season long. With Beverley and Jae Crowder, Milwaukee will trot out two rugged defenders who will not back down from any challenge.
