Third year guard Damian Lillard has felt his play for the Portland Trailblazers has been more than adequate, and wants his contract to match that.
Lillard is seeking the designated five year deal max contract this upcoming summer, and the Oakland native’s play in his first three years is deserving.
Portland drafted the Weber State guard seventh in 2012, and won 2012-13 NBA Rookie of the Year over superstar Anthony Davis, averaging 19.0 points per game (12th in the NBA) and 6.5 assists per game (16th in the NBA).
The last 2 years Lillard along with his tag team partner LaMarcus Aldridge, who is also a free agent this summer, led the Trailblazers to the NBA Playoffs the last 2 years and was recognized with two consecutive NBA All-Star selections. Not to mention, in 2013-14 was honored with an All-NBA 3rd team selection. His scoring average has increased in each of his first three years, in 2014-15 averaging a career-high 21.0 points per game.
However, it hasn’t been all cozy for Lillard and the Trailblazers. After an injury plagued season that seen backcourt mate Wesley Matthews tear his achilles, and is also a free agent this summer, Portland was bounced by a gritty Memphis Grizzlies team in 5 games.
Now the timing of this report might not necesarily be appropriate, but Lillard has earned the right to voice his opinion, or for his representative team to on his behalf.
General Manager Neil Olshey will have a busy summer ahead, to not only keep Lillard happy, but to retain both Aldridge and Matthews this summer.
It’s safe to say, Damian Lillard is all money.