After the Milwaukee Bucks’ shocking decision to waive Damian Lillard, the seven-time All-Star is now a free agent. Although he is still rehabbing a torn Achilles tendon, there is reportedly a robust market for him.
An NBA insider also dropped a bombshell, revealing a potential landing spot for Lillard.
Marc Spears Says Western Conference Contender Should Sign Damian Lillard
On NBA Today, the ESPN panel discussed their top landing spots for Lillard. Marc J. Spears revealed the destination he’d most like to see the All-NBA guard take his talents to.
“No. 1, the Minnesota Timberwolves would be an amazing pick. All due respect to MikeConley — if they brought (Lillard) in running point next to Ant, imagine the shooting in that backcourt. Imagine the boost that Minnesota would get,” Spears said.
The ESPN panel praised the potential move, highlighting the dynamic backcourt Lillard and Anthony Edwards could form. Spears later emphasized the existing relationship between the two guards and noted that Lillard might be the missing piece the Timberwolves need to finally get over the hump.
On paper, it’s a perfect fit. Edwards is a versatile two-way guard, and the Timberwolves have players who can defend at a high level, potentially covering for Lillard’s defensive deficiencies.
Since selecting Edwards with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, the Timberwolves have had a revolving door at the point guard position. They’ve tried pairing the three-time All-Star with D’Angelo Russell, Patrick Beverley, and Mike Conley, but none bring the star power or elite shot-making ability that Lillard possesses.
While it remains to be seen whether Lillard views Minnesota as a ready-made roster needing only him to push them beyond consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances, Spears makes a compelling case.
Along with the Timberwolves, Spears also mentioned several other potential landing spots for Lillard, including a return to the Portland Trail Blazers, as well as the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets and his hometown team, the Golden State Warriors.
All of these teams would become more dynamic with him on the roster. He’s coming off another impressive season before his injury, averaging 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game and earning another All-Star selection.
Brian Windhorst added during the segment, “If Dame is able to come back and play and is a late-season addition to a team, that’s a potential game-changer. That’s something that could take a team that’s near the top and put them over the top.”
Spears also said Lillard’s agent has communicated that the seven-time All-Star and his camp plan to take their time choosing the right destination. It’s well known that Lillard faced personal and professional challenges during his time in Milwaukee, and he’s eager to find a fresh start elsewhere.
Whichever team lands Lillard could see a significant boost in its postseason success, especially if he returns to his pre-injury form.
