The Golden State Warriors’ reported interest in acquiring nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard has been met with a bold response from the player himself. On July 3, Lillard took to social media platform X to express his confidence, stating,
“If they call it a ‘gamble’ at this stage… tell ’em this [is] the jackpot. #ToBeContinued.”
This development follows the Milwaukee Bucks’ surprising decision to waive Lillard, opting instead to sign center Myles Turner during free agency. Despite Lillard’s current Achilles injury, the Warriors are reportedly one of three teams keen on signing him, according to The Athletic.
Interest from Multiple Contenders
Not surprisingly, Lillard has attracted attention from several top-tier teams. As reported by The Athletic,
“League sources say the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers are known to be among the many teams that would have interest in doing a deal sooner rather than later.”
This interest underscores Lillard’s enduring value in the league, despite his injury setbacks.
The Warriors’ interest in Lillard is particularly noteworthy given his ties to the Bay Area. As an Oakland native, Lillard grew up watching the Warriors, and his potential move to the team would be a homecoming of sorts. Lillard has previously expressed a preference for joining the Miami Heat due to his relationship with Jimmy Butler, but circumstances have shifted dramatically since his trade from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Bucks in 2023.
Lillard’s Open Options and Financial Freedom
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Lillard is reportedly “elated” by the Bucks’ decision to waive him, as it grants him the freedom to choose his next team without financial constraints. The Bucks will stretch the remaining $113 million on his contract over five years, allowing Lillard to sign for the minimum while still receiving equal $22.5 million payments annually.
NBA insider Chris Haynes has reported that Lillard is open to signing with a new team during his rehabilitation, provided the terms and conditions are right. Although these conditions remain undisclosed, the Warriors’ successful track record with injured players, such as Klay Thompson’s recovery, could play a significant role in Lillard’s decision-making process.
The Warriors’ Strategic Considerations
The potential addition of Lillard to the Warriors’ roster raises intriguing strategic possibilities. While Lillard is a nine-time All-Star and seven-time All-NBA player, his role alongside Stephen Curry would likely be as a backup, given the challenges of playing two small guards in the postseason.
ESPN’s Marc J. Spears highlighted the Warriors’ interest during a segment on “NBA Today,” noting Lillard’s deep connections to the team and its fanbase.
“This is a guy that grew up going to games at Oracle Arena, sneaking into the media room getting sodas. Grew up a Warriors fan. That’s interesting. Hearing that the Warriors do have interest in Dame, I know that’s very interesting to Bay Area people,”
Spears remarked.
Looking Ahead: Lillard’s Next Move
As the situation unfolds, the basketball world watches closely to see where Damian Lillard will land next. His decision will not only impact his career trajectory but also potentially shift the balance of power within the NBA. The Warriors, with their storied history and championship aspirations, present a compelling option for Lillard as he considers his future.
Meanwhile, the league awaits further developments, with fans and analysts alike speculating on the implications of Lillard’s next move. Whether he joins the Warriors or another contender, one thing is clear: Damian Lillard’s journey continues to captivate the basketball community.
