The Plot Twist No One Saw Coming
Let’s rewind. Damian Lillard was supposed to be a long-term piece alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee. The Bucks hoped his shot creation and leadership could boost their title hopes, and while he did flash brilliance in stretches, the fit never quite found its groove. Now, with the Bucks focusing on financial flexibility and a retool, Lillard finds himself unexpectedly on the market.
And according to The Athletic, the Lakers aren’t wasting any time. They're one of several contenders reaching out. Other big names like the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics have also reportedly made contact—but the Lakers’ interest seems especially intriguing.
🌴 LA Calling: Why the Lakers Make Sense
Let’s face it: LA is always in the conversation when a marquee name becomes available. The franchise oozes star power and championship legacy, and adding a player like Lillard fits perfectly with their "win now" approach, especially with LeBron James still in town.
Even though LA wasn’t on Lillard’s list of preferred destinations in previous trade talks, that may not matter anymore. With a clean slate and a new path forward, he could be enticed by Hollywood lights, a passionate fan base, and the potential to chase a ring alongside other superstar talent. Oh, and staying on the West Coast doesn’t hurt either.
🔍 Injury Concerns? Sure. But Don’t Count Him Out
Here’s the thing: Lillard is coming off a torn Achilles, which naturally raises eyebrows. The timeline for recovery is always tricky with this kind of injury, but optimism is bubbling up. Rumors suggest he could make a return sometime during the 2025–26 season.
Now, that might seem like a long wait. But for the right team—especially one with championship ambitions—it’s a calculated risk. Remember, even at age 34, Dame is still Dame.
In 58 games with the Bucks last season, he posted:
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24.9 points per game
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7.1 assists
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4.7 rebounds
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1.2 steals
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Shot 44.8% from the field and 37.6% from deep
That’s not just serviceable—that’s All-Star level production. If he returns anywhere close to form, he’ll instantly become one of the league’s top offensive weapons again.
🛠️ Lakers’ Shopping List: Can They Afford Dame?
Of course, it's not all glitz and glam. The Lakers' roster still has holes they need to plug.
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A new starting center is still a priority.
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Their perimeter defense was shaky last season, and it needs serious reinforcements.
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Oh, and then there’s the financial puzzle of making a move for Lillard while staying under the luxury tax apron.
This is where GM Rob Pelinka has some hard decisions to make. If they go all-in for Lillard, it might mean sacrificing depth or delaying other roster upgrades. But when a superstar becomes available, especially one with Lillard’s pedigree, you have to consider swinging big.
And let’s not forget, this is a franchise that thrives on splashy moves. Pelinka’s already pulled off trades and signings that most thought were longshots. So don’t rule anything out just yet.
🤝 Contenders Line Up, But LA Has an Edge
Per the same report from The Athletic, several teams called Lillard’s camp almost immediately after the Bucks’ decision went public. The Warriors and Celtics are in the mix, but their situations are different:
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Golden State has aging stars and might want to make one last run with Steph Curry.
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Boston just hoisted the Larry O’Brien Trophy and may want insurance behind their core, especially with Jrue Holiday aging.
But the Lakers offer something unique—a market that Lillard can thrive in both on and off the court, and the chance to link up with two generational players in LeBron and possibly Luka Doncic (yes, those whispers haven’t totally died down).
If that trio somehow forms, buckle up—we're talking instant championship buzz.
👀 What Happens Next?
Expect this storyline to heat up fast. Teams aren’t going to wait around, and Lillard isn’t a player who’ll remain unsigned for long.
The Lakers have a narrow window with LeBron still playing elite-level basketball. Pairing him with a healthy Lillard gives LA a real shot at another title run. Of course, all of this hinges on several what-ifs—his health, the contract negotiations, roster fit, and timing.
Still, the fact that LA is even in the conversation shows their commitment to chasing another banner.
📝 Final Thoughts: Will Dame Time Strike in LA?
While nothing’s guaranteed, there’s real smoke here. Lillard landing in Los Angeles would be the kind of blockbuster move that instantly shifts the balance of power in the West. It’s the kind of gamble that either cements a dynasty or sparks a full rebuild if things go sideways.
For now, we’ll wait. But the buzz is real. The calls have been made. And LA has officially joined the chase.
Stay tuned—because Dame Time might just be making a stop in Hollywood.
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