Damian Lillard: 'I'm not leaving' Trail Blazers, 'not right now at least'

Trade rumors have been following Lillard since the Trail Blazers were eliminated from the 2021 playoffs in the first round by the Denver Nuggets. 

After Portland's final game of the postseason, Lillard fanned the flames, saying, "I mean, we didn't win a championship, so obviously where we are now isn't good enough."

NBA insider Marc Stein reported last month that Lillard and the Trail Blazers were not "ready to entertain trade possibilities." The veteran guard has three years and $127.5 million left on his contract, which also includes a player option for 2024-25. 

If the Blazers lose in the first round of the playoffs again or the team isn't in playoff contention come the trade deadline, then maybe Lillard will seek a move elsewhere. 

For now, though, it appears Trail Blazers fans can breathe a sigh of relief as their superstar appears ready to stay put.

Lillard, 31, averaged 28.8 points, 7.5 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game last season. The Blazers finished sixth in the Western Conference with a 42-30 record.