Damian Lillard, Who Was LeBron James’ Top Target Before Russell Westbrook, Takes Subtle Dig at the “King”

One of the biggest trade rumors going around since last season is Damian Lillard. Many reports suggested that the Portland Trail Blazers star was the first choice for LeBron James to strengthen the gold and purple squad. Although the Lakers ended up signing Russell Westbrook, the rumors never stopped.

In a recent interview, Lillard talked about the future of the Portland Trail Blazers and also took a subtle dig at James. While talking with Draymond Green, the Trail Blazers star talked about the habit of some players who try to force some moves even though they are tough for the front office.

Damian Lillard hits out at LeBron James

Safe to say LeBron James is having one of the toughest seasons of his career. The Los Angeles Lakers are not among the top teams in the league and a playoff spot is looking extremely tough.

Although the Lakers had major rumors going around with many players, the trade deadline was unusually quiet for LA. 

On the other hand, the Trail Blazers had their noses deep in the trade season. The franchise executed a number of top trades to rebuild the team.

Talking about the future of Rip City, Trail Blazers’ main man Damian Lillard talked with Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.

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In the midst of the conversation, Lillard seemed to take a subtle dig at LeBron James. He said, “I’m not gonna tell ya’all what to do, but I’m not also going to stop ya’all from doing your job.”

Lillard further added, “I don’t think being an alpha to me don’t mean to be like the loudest one, telling everyone what to do. To me, being an alpha is the presence. The presence of alpha is more known than anything.”

It seems as if Lillard is taking shots at LeBron James. LeGm, as he is called, is famous for forcing trades to teams in order to suit his needs and gameplay. Interestingly enough, Damian Lillard has been a long-term target of LeBron. Despite all the rumors linking him to the Lakers, a move has never come close between the two parties.

Lillard and the Los Angeles Lakers link

During the trade season, the Portland Trail Blazers sent out a clear message to star man Damian Lillard. The team traded long-term guard CJ McCollum, Larry Nance Jr., and Tony Snell to the New Orleans Pelicans.

With this trade, the Lakers and LeBron James’ dream of acquiring Damian Lillard during the trade deadline was completely crushed.

Moreover, Lillard is still in his first year of a four-year contract. The contract earns him a massive $196 million that runs through the 2024-25 season.

Despite reportedly meeting LeBron James during the offseason, it seems Lillard is in no mood for relocating thanks to the efforts of rebuilding the team.

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Do you think LeBron will get his man? Let us know in the comments below.