Damian Lillard had “mutual interest” with a team before returning

Before Damian Lillard Returned to Trail Blazer On the go that warmed the hearts of Portland fansThere was real buzzing around the NBA on a possible alternative path.

According to reports, It was a mutual interest Between Lillard and Minnesota Timbervolves. Until the agreement never achieved, he opened speculation about what could have been a change for change for Minnesota.

Lillard signed a three-year contract with Portland worth $ 42 million. The contract includes the option of the player and the rare clause without trade. He will sit The upcoming season to recover from torn Achilles and plans to return to 2026. years.

For Portland, the return of their long franchise stars signifies the continuation of the story that began in 2012. years. Lillard chose the sixth entrance to Trago Blazer in the NBA draft 2012. years and he spent 11 season there before his short time. In his time with Blazers, he became the highest leading team shooter and one of the larger electrical players in the league.

Lillard’s career numbers tell about notebook. He averaged over 25 points, almost 7 assists, and over 4 jumps per game for more than a decade in the NBA. There are nine layers with all stars, more of all-NBA honors and remains one of the best shooters in three points in history. His leadership and scoring created one of the most respected players of his generation.

But for wooden living, this was a missed opportunity. Minnesota has built a strong core about the increase in Superstar Anthony Edwards. The team reached deep playlets, but it was still fell to speed up the final. Lillard could have been a piece of veteran to push them over the top.

Wolves lack a seasoned guard that can manage the ISING team and download the games as needed. Lillard made a career to do just that. His shooting in a deep range would open the floor, giving her front of more space to operate and provides better spaces for Slashers like Edward.

Behind the numbers, Lillard, who only recently turned 35, brings something harder to measure. It has Playoff Stiise, fearless mentality and famine for championships. His presence could have added a layer of leadership who completed the young Roster Timbervolves.

Even as he recovers from the injury, Minnesota could have reviewed the first year as an investment. The plan would be simple. Give the Lillard time to heal, then release it in the 2026 season with a healthy body and a restful in-mind, similar to what Portland will do. Until then, Edwards and the team would increase even more, asking the Title fluid stage.

Financially, Timbervolves may have creatively structured the job. There were talks about minimal veteran options or absorbent processing salary, giving them flexibility of the lid while adding the presence of a superstar. It would not be necessary to bite your list.

Instead, Lillard chose a famous path. Return to Rip Citi allows him to close his career in which he started, surrounded by a city that accepted him from the day. It is a suitable housing for one of the most frustrated players in the league.

Meanwhile, Minnesota moves forward without adding Markiee. The core remains intact, but the ceiling remains uncertain. The west is full of candidates, and wolves need every edge I can get.

Lillard in Minnesota may have been one of the largest leagues that and if it is extremely. He smiled meaning, and interest was real. And the influence could be massive.

But for now, wolves remain a few pieces away from the NBA championship. Lillard goes home, and Minnesota was left to wonder what could have been.