Damian Lillard may be the NBA’s hottest trade target right now, but he doesn’t exactly have the longest timeline of the league’s top-tier superstars. At nearly 33 years old, Lillard is closer to the end of his prime than the beginning, and that’s even after acknowledging that last season was the best of his career so far.
So, considering his age and 11 years of experience in the NBA, it’s no wonder that some fans have been wondering how much longer Dame can maintain his status as one of the elites. On Twitter, one user found himself at the center of backlash on this topic after claiming that Damian only has one or two years left in his prime. He was promptly shut down by none other than Kevin Durant, who replied with a short yet simple message:
“Lol 1 or 2 more years Lmao. What do u be watching gang seriously.”
Lol 1 or 2 more years Lmao. What do u be watching gang seriously.
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) July 5, 2023
Durant has never been shy about calling out nonsense when he sees it, and it’s clear what he thinks of the fan’s take on Lillard. While he is 32 years old, the guy is coming off his best season yet with averages of 32.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game on 46.3% shooting. He also scored a career-high 71 points in a performance that nearly broke NBA history.
When you consider these things, it’s obvious that Damian Lillard still has plenty left in the tank, and instead of questioning his value, teams around the league should be working day and night to compile the best package they can to get him on their team.
Where Will Damian Lillard Get Traded?
It’s no secret that Dame desired a move to Miami, but the Heat do not have much to offer in the way of assets. Unless they can find a third team to satisfy the Blazers in this deal, it’s looking increasingly unlikely that Miami will strike a deal for the 7x All-Star.
“Dame has done everything right, but on the other hand, you have to go out and seek the best deal,” said JJ Redick on the next steps for Portland. “Does that mean Miami or Brooklyn will have the best deal, maybe, but I would venture to guess there are some teams that could put together a better trade package than those teams.”
Only time will tell how all of this ends, but nobody should be mistaken about the status of Damian Lillard. Even at 32 years old, he’s one of the best in the game, and everyone who knows what he can do will be watching to see where he goes next on his quest to win a title.
