July 1 marked the end of the Damian Lillard era in Portland.
The most popular, and arguably the best, player in Trail Blazers franchise history requested a trade away from the only NBA franchise he’s ever known. Whether it was the organization’s fault for not doing enough to keep Dame happy or if building a true contender around a high-usage, small guard who can’t defend no longer matters.
Lillard will be attempting to win an NBA title elsewhere next season.
If he gets his wish, that will be in Miami alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.