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Paul George picks out the superstar Damian Lillard should join up with, he’d make their team unstoppable

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 12:46 PM ET

Damian Lillard’s future remains the hottest topic in NBA free agency.

After getting waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, the All-Star guard still searches for his next destination among several interested teams.

Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors were tipped as contenders to land Lillard. Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce has even recommended a role for Lillard with the 2023-24 NBA champions.

George explains why the Rockets’ roster construction is perfect for Lillard

Paul George has entered the conversation with his own compelling suggestion for Lillard’s next move. The former Indiana Pacers star believes Lillard should join Kevin Durant with the Houston Rockets to form a championship-caliber super team.

George’s reasoning extends beyond star power, focusing on how the Rockets’ current roster construction would maximize Lillard’s effectiveness.

He sees the perfect blend of talent, defense, and youth that would allow Lillard to thrive without carrying an overwhelming burden.

“Put him with Houston. You put him on a team where there is a KD, there is defense around him, there’s length around him. If it’s smaller guard, pair him with bigger guy, length around him,” George explained on his podcast.

“You got KD, a lethal shooter. You got the Thompson twin as one of the best defenders in the game. Jabari Smith length, spreads the floor like that.

“And there’s enough youth around him that he doesn’t have to carry load like that.”

“You got Fred that can come off the bench or you can play him in tandem. I like him in Houston. And I think that’s great fit for him in Houston,” George added.

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Why Houston’s championship window perfectly aligns with Lillard’s title hopes

The Rockets have indeed assembled one of the most promising rosters for next season. They’ve perfectly complemented their young core centered around Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith with the star-caliber addition of Durant.

Houston also features proven veterans like Fred VanVleet, Steven Adams, and Clint Capela who understand championship-level competition. This blend of youth and experience creates an ideal environment for Lillard’s championship pursuit.

Many analysts believe this Rockets team should represent the primary threat to defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

Adding a player of Lillard’s caliber would significantly increase their championship odds and create a true super team in the Western Conference.

Lillard’s production proves he can still contribute at an elite level

Despite currently dealing with injury concerns that will cost him games, Damian Lillard demonstrated his continued effectiveness last season. He averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game while maintaining his elite shooting ability.

The Rockets’ defensive length and versatility would mask Lillard’s defensive limitations, while his offensive brilliance would complement Durant’s scoring prowess perfectly.

This potential pairing represents a win-win scenario for both parties. Houston would gain a proven clutch performer and elite playmaker, while Lillard would finally have the supporting cast necessary for his first championship ring.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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