For nearly a decade, Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum have been the dynamic duo for the Portland Trail Blazers?s success. Their synergy on the court was palpable and the friendship of the court was equally strong. Their chemistry was evident in the way they complemented each other’s playing styles, resulting in thrilling wins. However, like every other great partnership, their era came to an end when CJ moved on to the New Orleans Pelicans.?

In a recent podcast, It Is What It Is, Dame talks about his NBA career, amongst other things. As his time with Blazers is about to conclude, his legacy with the team is incomplete with the mention of CJ. Dame gets candid about his relationship and their separation, eventually. Even after moving on separate ways, Dame didn?t miss his special day and even had a message for CJ that he shared on his Instagram.?

Dame wishes CJ on his birthday with a special message

Lillard took to Instagram to wish McCollum on his birthday, sharing a photo of them hugging. CJ is wearing his Pelicans jersey and Dame wrote, ?Happy bday to my dog?4eva Eva?. His ‘4eva Eva’ mention reveals the friendship that goes beyond the NBA.??

Their on-court chemistry and complementary playing styles were instrumental in the Blazers’ success. Lillard’s ability to penetrate defenses and hit clutch shots combined with McCollum’s scoring and assists made them a formidable team over the years. They played over 500 games together from 2014 to 2022, combining for over 30,000 points. During their time together, they had some unforgettable games. One of the most memorable was the ?Bombs Away? Game ? Game 2, 2019 West First Round vs. OKC. The duo combined for 62 points, propelling the Trail Blazers to a 2-0 series lead.?

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From the same season when facing off against the Denver Nuggets in a crucial Game 7, Lillard and McCollum showcased their brilliance again. Lillard exploded for 37 points, including a game-winning buzzer-beater from beyond the arc. On the other hand, McCollum contributed with 17 points and crucial defensive stops. Their individual contributions propelled the Blazers to the Western Conference Finals.?

Dame reveals they knew the long partnership was coming to an end

After CJ got traded, Lillard shared some insights on the eight-year-long collaboration. Of course, they both complemented each other as point guards. He says, ?Me and CJ were like in the backcourt for eight years together and we both were making a lot of money. But we were like size. You know our game was real similar and you know I feel like they knew that it was time for us to figure out a different situation?.

Lillard continues by saying that the separation was not a shocker, but an anticipated event. ?Me and CJ had talked about that for years. We had open conversations about everything, like we knew this was coming. We knew it was a possibility and when it came it wasn?t a shocker.? While it may have been a bittersweet moment for both, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in their respective careers. As the new season is gearing up, Dame is likely to play a few games with the Blazers before the most anticipated trade happens.

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