Damian Lillard is back in Portland, but it’s not as simple as running it back. Beneath the headlines and press conferences, there’s a contract, and inside it, a very telling detail, a no-trade clause. The only one in the NBA besides LeBron James.
Rachel Nichols broke it down on Open Floor: “Dame also got a no-trade clause inserted into this contract, which is kind of amazing… Clearly, Dame Lillard thought it was enough of a chance that he asked for an NTC.” That’s not business as usual. That’s a player protecting himself.
Rachel added, “I think with the No-trade clause, the player option… there is still some lingering distrust of Cronin and that front office. And even though they’ve made up… he just sort of wants the options not to get screwed over.” This isn’t just a superstar returning. It’s a peace treaty, with caution tape. Portland’s roster may still be a puzzle, but Dame’s message is clear: I’m here, but I’m watching.
Damian Lillard on his relationship with Joe Cronin: “Toward the end, it was a lot of misunderstandings and miscommunications. When that happens, feelings are hurt. Joe and I never sat down and talked about that. We let it be and it sat out there. That was the mistake.”
— Sean Highkin (@highkin) July 22, 2025
This is a Developing Story…
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