Doc Rivers Reveals Damian Lillard's View on Avdija's Role
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
Doc Rivers revealed that Damian Lillard told him the Portland Trail Blazers belong to Denny Avdija. Rivers, Lillard's former coach, shared this in an interview, stating Lillard and Ja Morant had "given the team to the kid." Lillard reportedly expressed this sentiment early on, indicating Avdija is the future cornerstone of the franchise.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Doc Rivers said Damian Lillard told him the Portland Trail Blazers belong to Denny Avdija.
- Lillard and Ja Morant have "given the team to the kid" Avdija, according to Rivers.
- Rivers discussed Lillard's future role with the player multiple times.
- Lillard expressed his happiness and commitment to Portland.
- The comments suggest Avdija is seen as the franchise's future cornerstone.
Doc Rivers, who coached Damian Lillard with the Milwaukee Bucks, revealed in an interview on Bill Simmons' podcast that Lillard expressed his commitment to the Portland Trail Blazers and his belief in Israeli player Denny Avdija's future with the team. Rivers stated he spoke with Lillard three or four times about the situation.
According to Rivers, Lillard was happy to be in Portland and made it clear early on who the team belonged to. Rivers quoted Lillard as saying, "Brother, we made it very clear and very early who the team belongs to." He added that both Lillard and Ja Morant had "given the team to the kid (Avdija)," telling him, "This is your game and we'll figure out what to do around you."
This statement suggests Lillard views Avdija as the cornerstone of the Trail Blazers' future, particularly in the context of the 2026/27 season, when Lillard reportedly indicated he would hand over the reins.