NBA world reacts to Damian Lillard's trade request to Trail Blazers

Edward Sutelan

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NBA world reacts to Damian Lillard's trade request to Trail Blazers image

It's about Dame Time.

After persistent trade rumors that have lingered for months, it was reported on Saturday morning that Damian Lillard has requested to leave the Trail Blazers. A trade of the Portland superstar would be a major shakeup in the NBA landscape.

Lillard has been among the most important players in Trail Blazer history. He was drafted sixth overall in 2012 and immediately won Rookie of the Year. He is the franchise's all-time points leader with 19,376, passing Clyde Drexler who had 18,040, as well as 3-point field goals (2,387) and 3-point field goal attempts (6,410). Lillard is also second in assists (5,151), third in games (769) and second in minutes (27,942).

The point guard has been a seven-time All-Star and was pivotal in leading Portland to seven straight playoff appearances, the second-longest run in team history. However, Portland was never able to make it past the Western Conference Finals, which it reached just once.

MORE: Lillard trade destinations

Lillard is certain to draw plenty of trade interest, with several high-profile contenders likely topping the list of teams that will be interested in acquiring the star scorer. The reigning Eastern Conference champion Heat top the list of likely suitors, while others like the Nets, Raptors and Knicks should find themselves in the mix.

It should come as no surprise that Lillard's trade request has rocked the NBA world, with fans expressing optimism that the next stop in Lillard's career is their favorite team, while others are just shocked to see the likely end of his 11-year run in Portland.

Edward Sutelan

Edward Sutelan Photo

Edward Sutelan joined The Sporting News in 2021 after covering high school sports for PennLive. Edward graduated from The Ohio State University in 2019, where he gained experience covering the baseball, football and basketball teams. Edward also spent time working for The Columbus Dispatch and Cape Cod Times.