Damian Lillard Wants Out

[Andrew]

The latest on that. Miami still appears to be his preferred destination, as of writing.

Given that Damian Lillard has been very big on loyalty, it's somewhat surprising, and definitely a shame to see. In this era, an NBA player spending 11 seasons with the team that drafted him is a rarity, and a refreshing throwback. I can't blame him for a change of heart though, or even for wanting to go to a team that's recently been impressively successful. He obviously isn't keen on a lateral career move.

I'm sure that seeing a smaller market franchise like the Nuggets manage to break through and build a roster that could contend for and win a championship has exacerbated his frustration with Portland's inability to assemble a better team in twice as long, stretching his loyalty to breaking point. Easier said than done of course, and Denver is certainly an exception. Still, it's understandable if he's frustrated and wants to move on. No doubt his previous staunch stance on loyalty is going to be held against him - that's always the danger of speaking in absolutes - but circumstances change, and he's stuck it out longer than most.

It's a shame for both sides, but if Portland wants to rebuild and commit to a youth movement, they probably have reached a parting of the ways.