Continuing our ongoing top 25 player rankings, in this article, we analyze Damian Lillard. Over the past few months, no star has been in the news more than Lillard. After a trade request in July, Lillard trade rumors dominated the remainder off-season. Ultimately, Lillard was traded to the Bucks and now has a real chance to compete for a title for the first time in his career.
Top 25 NBA players 2023-24: No. 13 Damian Lillard
An Elite Offensive Talent
Since he entered the league, it’s been clear that Lillard is one of the most gifted offensive talents in the league. Lillard has a strong case as the second-best three-point shooter of all time. Even if you don’t want to give Lillard that claim, you’d have to acknowledge he’s within that range. Lillard’s elite shooting ability gives him incredible offensive gravity both on and off the ball. In addition to being a historically great shooter, Lillard is an elite three-level scorer and all-around bucket-getter. Lillard is also one of the league’s best ball-handlers and passers. This all comes together to create one of the most prolific offensive threats league-wide.
Season Recap
Last year was Lillard’s 11th and final season with the Blazers. Lillard put together a great bounce-back year after a scary abdominal injury in 2022 and set a career-high with 32 PPG. It’s rare that a 32-year-old can set a career-high in scoring. Similarly, Lillard’s sustained success is incredible, especially as a small guard. Lillard’s elite skill set allowed him to have an absurd 71-point game vs the Rockets. Despite this individual success, it was clear that Dame and the Blazers were at a crossroads. Dame wanted a chance to win and the Blazers were looking for a youth movement. Furthermore, for years there had been trade rumors around Lillard. The Blazers forced a reluctant Lillard to sit out the final 10 games of the season in hopes of better positioning themselves for the draft.
In his exit conference, Lillard hinted that he would be upset if the Blazers used their pick to draft another young player. Ultimately, the Blazers landed the 3rd pick and selected star G-League ignite guard Scoot Henderson. A week later, Lillard would officially request a trade from the Blazers, setting up an off-season trade saga. Lillard named the Heat as his top and only preferred destination. While Lillard is no longer with the Blazers, it’s important to acknowledge how beloved Lillard was by the Blazers fan base and his importance and loyalty to the franchise. One day, his jersey will be hung from the rafters of the Moda Center.
Season Outlook
After months of speculation that Dame would be dealt to Miami. Lillard was surprisingly dealt to the Milwaukee Bucks last week. Even though this move is surprising, Milwaukee couldn’t be a better fit for Lillard. Furthermore, the Bucks give Lillard the best chance to compete for a title. Lillard fits like a glove next to Giannis Antetokounmpo and the two form the league’s best duo. The combination of Lillard’s elite perimeter skillet with Giannis’ elite interior and defensive skill set will terrorize opposing teams.
The pick-and-roll and two-man game upside with this duo is through the roof. Additionally, the Bucks have one of the best supporting cast in the league, including several quality defenders to support Lillard. The Bucks won 58 games last year. With Lillard in the mix, Milwaukee could easily win 60-plus games and be a true regular-season juggernaut. The Bucks are clear contenders and arguably favorites. This will by far be the best chance Lillard has to win a title and all NBA fans are excited to see what Dame can do with such a talented roster.
The Last Word on Damian Lillard
With more success this year, Lillard could be viewed as a top 10 player. Lillard is already in that conversation, but more team success could solidify this and raise him the rankings. It’s clear that Lillard is the best second option in the league and the upside with the duo is truly insane. Watching Lillard with his new team will be one of the most exciting parts of this season.
