The Portland Trailblazers made a huge move in the 2023 NBA Draft, selecting Scoot Henderson with the third overall pick. Henderson, having previously played for the G-League Ignite is a dynamic guard. One that many in the league have high expectations for. But, what does this mean for Damian Lillard? Dame D.O.L.L.A. has been loyal to the Trailblazers thus far, but with Scoot’s arrival, First Take‘s Stephen A. Smith believes this gives him the perfect excuse to move on.
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As the Trailblazers seem to be stepping into a rebuild many fans, analysts, and even some players have advised Lillard about his future. However, so far there has been nothing but rumors surrounding his departure. Nevertheless, Dame is a player who deserves to play for a championship contender. So, perhaps Stephen A. Smith is right when he says Lillard should be looking at finding a new home.
Stephen A. Smith believes its time for Damian Lillard to leave Portland with Scoot Henderson now on board
The Damian Lillard saga reached a new point last night. Since the Trailblazers secured the third overall pick in the 2023 Draft, rumors have been awry about Lillard’s potential departure. And, with their selection of Scoot Henderson, the Blazers seem ready to move on from Dame.
That being said, there are still those who believe a backcourt duo of Dame and Scoot could be a contender. However, Stephen A. Smith completely shut that down in the most recent First Take. In a monologue of sorts, Stephen A gave a well-thought-out argument as to why Lillard needs to leave Portland.
Smith made it clear that while Lillard is an important part of the Portland community, his staying does not make sense from a basketball perspective. It is clear to see that the Blazers are moving toward a rebuild and at the age of 32 Dame is unlikely to be a part of it. But, while he is loyal to the team and sells tickets, it would be better for him to move on.
“Damian Lillard needs to want out of Portland. He needs to move on. Of course, the Blazers organization does not want to lose him. He’s great, 32 years of age, and just finished averaging 32 points. A pillar of the community, he’s deified in the Portland area. You know people walk through the turnstiles just to see him play. He’s not only an elite player…he’s good for business OK! Because he’s ingratiated himself with that community that well. But, from a strictly basketball perspective, you are not a part of the championship equation. You stayed there just long enough for them to get what I think will probably be a perfect successor to him. Live with that, and move on Damian Lillard!”
.@stephenasmith says Damian Lillard has “the perfect excuse” to move on from Portland after they drafted Scoot Henderson: pic.twitter.com/CazjFdVtY5
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 23, 2023
There can be no denying that Dame deserves his laurels for sticking with the Blazers so far. He’s been with the team through thick and thin, and even now his loyalty seems unwavering. But, at his age, with all he’s given to the sport his legacy would be solidified with a championship. So, perhaps it is time he looks for a new challenge.
Scoot Henderson’s arrival will not make the Blazers the championship contender Dame hopes to be
Scoot Henderson is undoubtedly a great pickup for the Trailblazers. However, while there are those who believe a backcourt duo of him and Dame would thrive, it is highly unlikely. For starters, the backcourt superstar pairing didn’t work for Portland back when they had CJ McCollum and there is no reason it should work now.
Additionally, Scoot will have to get used to the NBA game and will likely hope to inherit the superstar role from Damian Lillard. This just does not match the latter’s expectations, as he hopes to lead the team to a ring as soon as next season.
It is high time Lillard takes his leave of Portland. And, while it may be heartbreaking with contenders like the Heat among other teams vying for him, it makes perfect sense.
