Damian Lillard was asked an interesting question on Twitter Wednesday about where he’d sign if he could sign anywhere outside of Portland.
@Dame_Lillard if you had the opportunity to sign with any team in the league today other than trailblazers what team would it be?
— . (@Supersonics2027) June 14, 2017
One of his answers might surprise you, while the other likely wouldn’t.
If blazers said they didn't want me… Utah Jazz or Lakers https://t.co/jep3V9qRsS
— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) June 14, 2017
Of course Lillard wants to play for the Los Angeles Lakers, because who doesn’t want to play for the Lakers? Though, we’re a bit taken back by the Utah Jazz. We’re talking about a California kid who grew up in Oakland, so it’s somewhat strange that Utah is a preferred destination. Though, he did go to Weber State, so perhaps he fell in love with the people there.
Though, all of this is just for fun. Lillard was sure to add the qualifier, “If blazers said they didn’t want me…”
We know the Blazers want him. He signed a five-year deal worth just under $140 million before the beginning of the 2016-17 season, so he’s not going anywhere unless it’s in a trade. And given the way the team’s general manager passionately defended his guys and the culture in Portland after the Blazers were swept by Golden State, that’s not likely to happen, either.
Speaking of Golden State, it’s quite telling that Lillard didn’t mention the Warriors among the teams he’d be interested in joining. Oakland born and raised, apparently he has no love for the hometown team. But after being beaten time and time again by Stephen Curry and Co. in recent years, who can blame him?