“$45-$50,000,000”: Trivializing Damian Lillard’s Ongoing Demands, Skip Bayless’ Claim Undermines Miami’s Chances of Getting Portland’s Superstar

The Damian Lillard saga that started weeks ago continues to rage. The Portland Trail Balzers’, after years of loyalty, finally demanded a trade. However, his demand also included a specific clause, he wanted to play for the Miami Heat. Portland straight-up refused to favor a certain franchise in the trade which has led the proceedings to a standstill. Now, Skip Bayless has come out with a statement that suggests Lillard, in reality, doesn’t want to be traded and wants to continue playing for the Trail Blazers.

Considering everything that has been going on, from Dame’s Instagram activity to his stand-off with Portland, Bayless’ argument seems far-fetched. Despite that, the FS1 Analyst went on to defend his claim in the latest episode of Undisputed.

 Skip Bayless claims deep down Damian Lillard wants to keep playing for Portland

Skip Bayless started of his argument by stating Damian Lillard’s love for the city of Portland and the franchise. He claimed that over his various interactions with the star, he had come to realize Dame loved playing for Portland.

Bayless went on to add that being paid $45,640,084 a year added to that love Lillard already had for the team. He went on to claim that deep down, the 6ft 2″ point guard knows he wants to stay and not go anywhere.

Skip Bayless: “Deep Deep Down in his heart of hearts, he really doesn’t wanna be traded out of Portland. He loves it there, he makes great money, max money, $45-$50,000,000 for the next couple of years.”

.@RealSkipBayless on Damian Lillard seeking a trade to the Miami Heat:

“he loves it there.” pic.twitter.com/NVylTYjmD5

— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) September 21, 2023

Bayless also pointed out that Lillard’s family is also in Portland which makes leaving the city all the more difficult for him. Granted Bayless had some solid arguments to support his claims, however, Lillard’s recent actions strongly refute Skip Bayless.

Lillard already believes he is a Heat Legend

Lillard recently posted an Instagram story that clearly showcases his dedication to play for the Miami Heat. The post called Dame a future Heat Legend and suggested how Miami was waiting for his trade.

Though Lillard quickly deleted the story a while later, it wasn’t before fans took a screenshot and it went viral. Furthermore, his explicit demand to play for the team added to the story he shared proves his desire to move to Miami. This directly contradicts Skip’s entire argument.