The NBA world has been buzzing with speculation surrounding the future of Portland Trail Blazers superstar point guard Damian Lillard. As trade rumors grew and Lillard’s discontent with the team becomes more apparent, fans have been eagerly awaiting any updates on his potential departure from Portland. However, a recent report suggests that the attention around Lillard’s situation could die down with the latest developments.
In the midst of uncertainty, Blazer’s General Manager has broken his silence after a meeting with Lillard?s agent. The outcome of this meeting could potentially shift the narrative surrounding Lillard’s future with the team, providing some much-needed clarity for fans and the organization alike.
Blazers GM Joe Cronin addresses Lillard’s situation
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In a statement following his meeting with Damian Lillard and his agent Aaron Goodwin, Joe Cronin expressed his commitment to building a winning team around the star point guard. “I met with Dame and Aaron Goodwin this afternoon. We had a great dialogue. We remain committed to building a winner around Dame,” Cronin said.?
Statement from Blazers GM Joe Cronin regarding today’s meeting with Damian Lillard and his agent.
“I met with Dame and Aaron Goodwin this afternoon. We had a great dialogue. We remain committed to building a winner around Dame.”#Ripcity pic.twitter.com/HrrqxLPEuO
— Aaron J. Fentress (@AaronJFentress) June 27, 2023
This statement from the Blazers’ GM suggests that they have made plans for roster improvements in free agency. While the specifics of the meeting have not been revealed, Cronin’s assurance that they are focused on building a contender implies that they are not considering trading Lillard at this time.
This news may come as a relief to Blazers fans who were concerned about the direction the team was taking after selecting Scoot Henderson as the #3 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft.?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Fans were exhausted with the rumors
Lillard?s trade rumors previously had sparked a mix of emotions among fans and fellow players. Some fans expressed their exhaustion, with one Twitter user stating, “I am tired of this guy, just retire.”?Others called for Lillard to request a trade if he is unhappy with the team’s decisions. The frustration among fans is understandable, as Lillard’s future has become a topic of constant speculation and uncertainty.?
Fellow NBA players had also weighed in on the situation, with Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler getting involved in the social media exchanges. Lillard shared an Instagram story with the song Welcome to Miami, hinting at his potential interest in joining the Heat. In response, Butler posted Instagram stories with songs by Lillard, fueling the trade rumors even further. These interactions on social media only intensified the speculations and added to the already existing doubts about his commitment to the Blazers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story:??Damian Lillard drops a time bomb about his NBA future?
The recent meeting, however, has provided some much-needed clarity on the star’s future with the Blazers. While the NBA world has grown increasingly frustrated with the constant speculation, Cronin’s commitment to building a winning team around Lillard may finally put an end to the rumors and allow fans to focus on the season ahead.