Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard thrived in Game 2 of the Blazers’ first round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, putting up 29 points, four rebounds and six assists. Besides his offensive contribution, his defense against Russell Westbrook was praised. Lillard talked about his defensive mentality in the series following Game 2 (via Blazers reporter Casey Holdahl):
“I don’t really have a choice but to embrace it,” said Lillard of defending the 2017 Most Valuable Player. “That team is going to go as far as him and Paul George.