The NBA is mostly all about business and loyalty in the league is very rare, be it loyalty from a player or the other way around. However, the loyalty shown by superstar Damian Lillard to the Portland Trail Blazers has to be applauded. But, like most things, loyalty comes with a price as well. Lillard has been one of the best players in the league for years now. Despite this, the Trail Blazers have not had much team success. While some have praised both parties for sticking with each other during tough times, some are not impressed. NBA legend Shaquille O?Neal recently gave his thoughts about the whole situation.

Notably, Lillard signed a two-year contract extension reportedly worth over $120 million with the Trail Blazers last year. This will keep the seven-time NBA All-Star in the Rip City until he is 34.

Shaquille O’Neal wants Damian Lillard to be traded to a contender

Shaquille O’Neal talked about the 71-point outburst by Damian Lillard during the latest episode of the Big Podcast with Shaq with co-hosts Nischelle Turner and Spice Adams. While talking about it, Shaq stated that Lillard is only bettered by Stephen Curry in terms of shooting and that he is not very far. The Los Angeles Lakers legend then noted that Dame has already proven that he is ready to stay even if it means that he will never win a title in his career. Turner added that Lillard has been averaging 39.4 points per game in the last 20 games, however, the Portland Trail Blazers have won only 10 of those games.

Diesel then said that the team should trade him to a contender. He stated, “The organization should do him a solid and trade him to a contender. They should use him to get younger pieces because they’re never going to win there if you don’t get him any help.”

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Nischelle noted that Lillard recently signed a massive two-year extension with the franchise. Shaq added that he would trade Dame to a contender to help him win a title because of his loyalty and professionalism.

O?Neal respects Lillard’s loyalty

Shaquille O?Neal has played for six teams over the course of his illustrious career. The four-time NBA champion was all about business as well. When the Orlando Magic did not offer him what he expected, Shaq moved to the Los Angeles Lakers. Similarly, he had issues with his contract extension with the Lakers as well.

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On the other hand, Damian Lillard has only played for the Portland Trail Blazers in his 11 years in the league. But Shaq had already won three rings during the same time period. However, the 2000 NBA MVP still respects Lillard for his loyalty and hopes the franchise helps him.

Do you think the Portland Trail Blazers should trade Damian Lillard to a contender? Let us know in the comments.