Loyalty in team sports is something that bodes well at the end of a player’s career, especially when that player has enjoyed plenty of success playing for that franchise. But is loyalty worth it when it is devoid of the ultimate success of winning championships? That’s a question NBA fans have pondered for several years in the case of Damian Lillard.

Drafted in 2012, ‘Logo Lillard’ has given fans, especially those of the Trail Blazers, several ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ with his with his deep shooting range, and his ability to hit buzzer-beaters at the end of tight games to seal victories.

But with basketball being a team sport, it is important to have the right mix of talent on your team to enjoy success. This is what the Trail Blazers have failed to put around Lillard year after year. Although CJ McCollum combines with Lillard to form a solid one-two punch, it hasn’t seemed to be enough to win a title.

Recovering from abdominal surgery, Lillard sat down with media to discuss his future with the Trail Blazers for this season.

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Damian Lillard Speaks to Media

For the first time since his surgery, ‘Dame Time’ sat down with media and spoke about his future this season. While feeling positive about the surgery, the point guard mentioned that he may choose to not lace up for the Trail Blazers this year if the franchise chooses to tank.

Tanking could possibly mean that the Trail Blazers would end up with a top draft pick next year and provide them with some solid additional talent while also saving on salaries. This could allow them the chance of acquiring some solid free agents too!

Furthermore, Portland now sits 10th in the West with a 19-26 record. If they were to stay there for the remainder of the season, the franchise would have a shot at the playoffs via the play-in tournament. But this again won’t be an easy path for them. If Lillard were to return this season, the team would have to rely heavily on his performances and may most likely not enjoy a long run in the playoffs even if they make it there. Only time will tell what the future of both the Trail Blazers and Lillard will hold.

Do you think ‘Dame Time’ will remain with the Trail Blazers in the years to come? Let us know in the comments below.

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