Damian Lillard’s tenure in Portland ends with trade to Milwaukee Bucks

The Damian Lillard era in Portland came to an end as the Trail Blazers traded the seven-time All-Star to the Milwaukee Bucks. This significant move marked the culmination of a saga that began almost three months ago when Lillard made a formal trade request.

Lillard had been vocal about his desire to join the Miami Heat, a destination that Portland had reportedly been reluctant to engage with since July. Reflecting on the tumultuous summer, Lillard told Bleacher Report, “How this summer played out behind the scenes definitely left a sour taste in my mouth. But it doesn’t change the amazing experiences I’ve had with the Trail Blazers and this city. I’ll always cherish this place. This is my home. I’ll always live here regardless.”

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In response to Lillard’s trade request back in July, Portland’s general manager, Joe Cronin, emphasized the organization’s commitment to securing the best possible deal for their future and their willingness to exercise patience throughout the process. Cronin stated, “I think what I’ve learned more than anything is patience is critical. Don’t be reactive, don’t jump at things to seemingly solve a problem.”

However, as weeks and months passed, reports suggested that the relationship between Lillard and the organization grew increasingly strained. On September 5th, Lillard had a meeting with Cronin and came to the realization that his preferred move to Miami was unlikely to materialize. At that point, he offered to retract his trade request and stay with the Trail Blazers if a deal with the Heat couldn’t be worked out. However, Cronin made it clear that there was “no coming back” after the initial trade request.

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Ultimately, Lillard and his agent explored other potential landing spots, leading to the decision to consider the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets. Lillard’s trade to the Bucks now provides him with the opportunity to join forces with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo on a team that won 58 games and entered the 2022-23 NBA Playoffs as the Eastern Conference’s top seed.