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LeBron James, Who Was Once Insulted by ‘Irresponsible’ Damian Lillard, Attempted Sneaky Lakers Steal in 2021

Published 11/30/2022, 8:30 PM EST

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So far in his NBA career, Damian Lillard has made a reputation to be one of the most loyal superstars. Despite the Portland Trail Blazers not being a powerhouse, the three-point expert can’t seem to stray the other way. There have been times the six-time All-Star hit his low points and thought about going separate ways. In 2021, rumors sparked about Dame possibly wanting out of his lifetime franchise. Likewise, with the news in his ears, LeBron James tried to make him put on a Los Angeles Lakers jersey while watching a WNBA game.

The history between Lillard and the King is one that started with scrutiny. That’s right, back when Lillard was still off in college, he witnessed LeBron James’ shocking 2011 Finals performance. While James was still a Miami Heat player back in the day, the 32-year-old Lillard launched a series of offensive tweets at the Akron Hammer. When he finally made it to the NBA, Lillard went straight to the 18-time All-Star apologizing for his actions and deeming them irresponsible.

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Since then, the two seem to share a sense of mutual respect for one another. However, James might have wanted more from his peer. During an interview with The Ringer, the Trail Blazers star shared the story of the time the Lakers superstar invited him to his house after coincidentally crossing paths during the Aces vs Sparks WNBA matchup.

The time LeBron James wanted Damian Lillard to join the Lakers

The internet was buzzing when they witnessed Lillard and James share a hug at the Las Vegas Aces vs Los Angeles Sparks matchup. The suspicions began of a possible team-up between the two generational superstars of the NBA. And it seems ‘The King’ had those motives in his mind. While speaking to The Ringer, Dame spoke about the incident and how James invited him over to his house. That’s where he would have Italian food with the King as well as Anthony Davis.

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As the stars chatted, James prompted Lillard to open up about his situation with the Portland Trail Blazers. The 32-year-old had this to say about their exchange, “We just chopped it up just about the possibilities”.

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USA Today via Reuters

Unfortunately, the Lakers duo weren’t able to persuade Lillard to break his most scared code. The difficulties weren’t enough to convince the sharpshooter to join the 2020 champions. In a surprise decision, he would soon announce his extension with the Portland Trail Blazers, solidifying his legacy with the organization. Damian Lillard is arguably one of the most lethal and clutch offensive weapons in the league.

One can only imagine what a partnership between Dame and LeBron James would bring out. With Lillard’s dream to win a championship, a move to the Los Angeles Lakers might have seen him fulfill the vision. However, the Trail Blazers star wants to do it with Portland where it all began. He revealed he would feel the most joy if he is crowned an NBA champion with his current side.

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And it seems the franchise is honoring his commitment as they have put together a solid roster this season. The addition of Jerami Grant along with Anfernee Simons’ emergence has made them a force to reckon with. On the other hand, LeBron James and the Lakers have struggled to make things happen so far.

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Coming off a shocking loss to the Pacers, the purple and gold have a chance to redeem themselves against Lillard’s Trail Blazers. While Lillard will remain out with injury, a victory would go a long way in regaining the lost confidence.

Do you think the Los Angeles Lakers will get their revenge on Portland in their second matchup of the season? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

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Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.
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Edited by:

Veer Badani