Report: Golden State Warriors Interested In Recently Waived All-NBA Guard

Marc J. Spears reported that Damian Lillard was “ecstatic” about the release from the Milwaukee Bucks. He is relishing the opportunity to become a free agent long before he thought he would be. The former Portland star doesn’t have to worry about whether the team he wants to go to has the assets. He can basically choose the team he wants to play for. Spears reported that the Golden State Warriors have been in touch with the seven-time All-NBA player.

The Warriors could use a dynamic shooter in the backcourt opposite Curry. Last year, there was a noticeable dropoff in offense when the superstar had to sit. Lillard has shown he can still score with ease and could provide some instant offense for the team. The biggest question mark is his Achilles injury.

Recovering From Injury

An Achilles injury is never good, but it is really bad for players who are in the twilight of their careers. Lillard will likely miss most of the year rehabbing the injury. While there is an outside chance he could return late in the season, I would doubt a contending team would want to throw a player into a rotation in the postseason. Signing Damian Lillard means not getting him until the following season.

Can the Golden State Warriors wait that long? On paper, having Lillard isn’t bad, though it does raise some questions on defense. However, this team needs to win now. Part of the reason the Milwaukee Bucks moved on from Lillard is that they need to maximize the championship window with Giannis Antetokounmpo. I’m not sure the Warriors have the ability to wait a year and hope Lillard returns to form.

Final Thoughts

Some team will take a chance on Lillard. He has been too good over his career to have no interest. However, it will be interesting which team picks him up, given the injury situation. Will it be the Warriors or another surprise team?