Bucks Zone

Damian Lillard shares the biggest lesson he’s taken away from this season

"I think this year, more than anything, I’ve learned that people don’t watch games."
Jonas Panerio|
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Milwaukee Bucks

With the spotlight shining brightly on the Milwaukee Bucks this, thanks largely to the team's acquisition of eight-time All-Star Damian Lillard, there's been more criticism than usual, especially regarding the dynamic between the two alpha Bucks—Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Although Milwaukee is now on a roll, winning five straight after the All-Star break, there were plenty of discussions regarding the legitimacy of the Bucks' title hopes after they went to the All-Star break on a 3-7 slump. However, Lillard's recent statement might provide insight into the team's mindset and what they've learned throughout this tumultuous season.

People don't pay attention to the games

In a talk with Sports Illustrated, Lillard shared his biggest takeaway from this season: "I think this year, more than anything, I've learned that people don't watch games." This may come as a surprise to some, considering how much attention is paid to star players like Lillard and Giannis. However, Lillard's point is not about the amount of viewership but rather the depth of understanding in truly analyzing a game and its players.

"They look at a box score, they look at the highlights, or they look at what's being said about games. But we've had moments where we've had great stretches of pick-and-rolls, great stretches of playing off of each other. It is just not enough," Lillard shared, referring to how he and Giannis have played this season.

Chemistry is a work in progress

As much as fans and the franchise want Lillard and Giannis to click immediately, their partnership is still a work in progress. They may have had some great stretches, but as Lillard mentioned, it's just not enough.

Both players are known for their individual skills and dominance on the court. Lillard, a seven-time All-NBA team member and one of the best point guards in the league, carried the Portland Trail Blazers on his back for years. Giannis, on the other hand, is a two-time NBA MVP and Defensive Player of the Year who has led the Milwaukee Bucks to multiple playoff appearances and the 2021 NBA title.

But when it comes to playing together, chemistry is key. And that takes time to develop. As Dame pointed out, they have had moments where they played well off of each other, but they are still figuring it all out.

"People want it all the time, every time, and we have to do it more. But we've had stretches, and we've had moments of doing it. It's just, that has to be more bread and butter than, 'Oh, they just did it,'" Lillard continued.

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO