The Portland Trail Blazers have had many reasons to celebrate during their 50-year history. Clyde Drexler dunks, Damian Lillard buzzer-beaters, lottery picks and blue-collar forwards have all stoked the passion of Blazers fans. But only once, in 1977, did the franchise capture the coveted golden trophy that all 30 NBA teams vie for.
Midway through his career, Lillard is in the running for the “Greatest Trail Blazer of All Time”, but he is no closer to bringing the title to Portland than Drexler was, or any player outside of that magic championship season.