Damian Lillard Adds His Name Next to Michael Jordan and Other NBA Greats with Unique Record

The Portland Trail Blazers and Chicago Bulls game played out like a boxing match, with the lead players of each team throwing punches at one another. After the Bulls erased a 19-point deficit, they looked well-poised for another clutch win. However, all it took was a buzzer-beater from Blazers’ superstar Damian Lillard, and it was game over. Lillard ended up joining some of the greats in a unique record with his stellar performance.

Damian Lillard joins elite club

Not only is Damian Lillard one of the best clutch players in the league right now, he is also one of the best in NBA history. He proved the same when he brought Portland a 123-11 victory against Chicago Bulls.

Lillard finished with 44 points on the scoreboard which included 8 three-pointers. Although, this wasn’t the highlight of the game.

The Bulls looked ready to add a W to their tally when Coby White made a pair of free throws, giving them a 122-117 lead with just 11.5 seconds left on the clock. However, Lillard reduced the deficit with a shot from beyond the arc at 8.2 seconds remaining.

Post that, the Blazers forced a jump ball in which Robert Covington was able to take possession and pass the ball to Lillard. With a few seconds left in the game, Lillard dropped another sensational three-pointer.

This is the third time he has had a walk-off buzzer-beater but just the second time where he has scored 40 points and dropped the game-winning shot at the buzzer.

As per Marc Stein, only three other players in history have done this. This includes Michael Jordan, Gilbert Arenas, and Larry Bird. Julius Erving has done this twice in the ABA.

Blazers trying to secure a spot

Last season, the Blazers had to fight tooth and nail to get a place in the playoffs. But this time, it’s possible that they might secure a spot with ease. They are slowly making their way up in the Western Conference, holding a 10-8 record.

So if the supporting cast remains healthy, Lillard and Co. can become title contenders this year. A lot of the regular season is still left, and only if they maintain their momentum can Portland stay alive in the competitive West.

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