Damian Lillard spent 11 seasons with the Trail Blazers before being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks ahead of the 2023-24 season. His closest encounter with the NBA Finals while with the Blazers occurred in 2019 when they advanced to the Western Conference Finals, only to be defeated by the Golden State Warriors.
Lillard expressed that the Blazers could have been champions if a particular player had remained with the team. During an appearance on “Club 520,” a podcast hosted by former NBA player Jeff Teague, the 34-year-old All-Star guard remarked that if power forward LaMarcus Aldridge had not signed a free agent deal with the San Antonio Spurs in 2015, the Blazers would have lifted the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy at some point.
“One thing I think about in my career is that if he hadn’t gone to San Antonio, we would have won (a title) at least once by now,” Lillard stated. “I would have come into my own, but he was that talented.”
Lillard mentioned that Aldridge’s ability to draw defenses was instrumental in creating open scoring opportunities for him, especially during pick-and-roll plays.
“He made everything so much easier. Teams were genuinely focused on him,” Lillard noted. “When I was in a pick-and-roll with him, he would pop out and hit jumper after jumper. I’d pass him the ball on the block, and the defense would rush to him. I’d be left standing there wide open. During my rookie year, I utilized the elbow pull-up jumper in pick-and-roll situations from the start … because they were trying to recover to him.”
Lillard and Aldridge were teammates on the Blazers for three seasons, from 2012 to 2015, before Aldridge signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Spurs in 2015. During their time together, the Blazers made the playoffs in two of those seasons, facing the Spurs in the conference semifinals in 2014 and the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round in 2015, both resulting in defeats.
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Damian Lillard Reflects on What Could Have Been: Title Hopes with LaMarcus Aldridge
Introduction
In the world of professional basketball, few stories evoke as much intrigue as the potential championship aspirations of the Portland Trail Blazers during the tenure of Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge. This article delves into the reflections of Lillard on their time together, exploring what could have been if circumstances had aligned differently for their playoff runs.
The Dynamic Duo: Lillard and Aldridge
Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge formed a formidable partnership during their years with the Portland Trail Blazers. Both players, with their unique skill sets, complemented each other beautifully on the court:
- LaMarcus Aldridge: Known for his exceptional post game and mid-range shooting, Aldridge was a reliable scoring option.
- Damian Lillard: A dynamic scorer and playmaker, Lillard’s ability to shoot from long range and create his own shot made him a constant threat.
Stats That Matter
Throughout their partnership, both players posted impressive statistics that highlight their impact:
| Season | Lillard Points per Game | Aldridge Points per Game |
|---|---|---|
| 2012-2013 | 26.0 | 21.1 |
| 2013-2014 | 20.7 | 23.2 |
| 2014-2015 | 21.0 | 23.4 |
Playoff Aspirations
During their time together, the Blazers made several playoff appearances, with the 2014-2015 season being particularly notable. They reached the Western Conference semifinals, but their journey was cut short by the Golden State Warriors, who would eventually win the championship.
Key Playoff Moments
Several memorable moments during their playoff runs stand out:
- 2014-2015 Playoffs: The Blazers faced the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round, where Lillard hit a memorable game-winning shot in Game 6, showcasing his clutch performance.
- 2013-2014 Playoffs: Despite a strong showing, the Blazers fell to the San Antonio Spurs, with Aldridge and Lillard combining for impressive stats but unable to secure enough wins.
What Could Have Been
Reflecting on their time together, Lillard has often expressed a sense of what could have been if the duo had better luck, injury-free seasons, and perhaps a few key acquisitions to bolster their roster.
Injuries and Roster Changes
Injuries played a significant role in their playoff outcomes. Key players missed critical games, diminishing their chances of advancing deep into the playoffs. Moreover, the Blazers’ roster underwent several changes, which affected team chemistry:
- Injuries: Both Lillard and Aldridge faced injuries at crucial times, limiting their effectiveness.
- Roster Changes: The addition and subtraction of players impacted the team’s overall performance, leading to inconsistent lineups.
Lillard’s Reflections
In interviews, Lillard has shared his thoughts on the missed opportunities:
“I often think about what we could have accomplished together if we had more time. LaMarcus and I had a special connection, and I believe we were capable of winning a championship.” – Damian Lillard
The Aftermath: Aldridge’s Departure
LaMarcus Aldridge made the decision to leave Portland in 2015, signing with the San Antonio Spurs. This marked a pivotal moment in Lillard’s career, as he was now tasked with leading the team on his own.
Impact of Aldridge’s Departure
Following Aldridge’s exit, Lillard experienced a mix of success and challenges:
- Increased Responsibility: Lillard became the focal point of the team, which led to several individual accolades but also added pressure.
- Team Rebuilding: The Blazers underwent a rebuilding phase, which included drafting new talent and making strategic trades.
Benefits of Reflecting on the Past
Reflecting on past experiences can be beneficial for both players and teams:
- Learning Opportunities: Understanding past mistakes can help in making better decisions in the future.
- Motivation: Reflecting on missed opportunities can serve as motivation to pursue future goals with renewed vigor.
Case Studies: Other Dynamic Duos
Other NBA teams have had similar situations where the potential of a duo was never fully realized:
- Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant: Despite winning three championships together, their relationship was tumultuous, leading to O’Neal’s departure.
- Chris Paul and Blake Griffin: The Clippers duo had several playoff disappointments, often hindered by injuries and roster changes.
First-Hand Experiences
Players who have experienced similar situations often share their insights:
- Kevin Durant: Reflects on his time with Russell Westbrook and what could have been if they had stayed together longer.
- LeBron James: Frequently discusses the importance of team chemistry and continuity in pursuit of championships.
The Legacy of Lillard and Aldridge
Despite not winning a championship together, the legacy of Lillard and Aldridge endures. Their time in Portland remains a poignant chapter in the franchise’s history, characterized by incredible performances and what-ifs.
Memorable Highlights
Fans still cherish the highlights of their partnership:
- Lillard’s iconic buzzer-beater against the Houston Rockets in the playoffs.
- Aldridge’s multiple All-Star selections while with the Blazers.
Final Thoughts
While Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge did not achieve the ultimate goal of an NBA championship during their time together, their reflections provide valuable insights into teamwork, perseverance, and the nature of success in professional sports. The discussions around what could have been undoubtedly fuel their legacies and inspire future generations of players.
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