As the Portland Trail Blazers prepare to face the Los Angeles Lakers, both LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony have acknowledged Damian Lillard’s greatness.
Portland Trail Blazers fans may know how great Damian Lillard is, but it hasn’t been until this year that Lillard has got the national recognition that he deserves.
His amazing January and then winning the Bubble MVP deservedly put him on the radar nationally.
LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony though, have recently acknowledged just how great Dame is.
Speaking with Yahoo NBA Insider Chris Haynes, James said that the Blazers aren’t a typical eight seed.
"Dame is doing what Dame does, no surprising me at all. One of the most underappreciated and underrated players we have in our game. From a player’s perspective, he has everyone’s respect in our league."
"One of the most underappreciated, underrated players that we have in our game."@KingJames talks Dame Lillard ahead of the Lakers’ first round matchup vs. the Blazers with @ChrisBHaynes. pic.twitter.com/9cz5e2HJtc
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) August 18, 2020
Last week, Melo also spoke on Dame with Haynes.
"“Dame’s at the top for me, “I’ve never played with someone who lifted his team on the court with his play and as a leader. He genuinely cares for his teammates. What he’s been able to do is amazing. He’s the top guy I’ve played with.”“AI was on the tail end [of his career] at that point [in Denver]“I’ve played with some great players, but the way Dame elevates his game and others, he’s at the top.”"
This is a massive tribute from 17-year veteran Melo, who has played with countless Hall of Famers and All-NBA caliber players.
Blazers fans and media have wanted Dame to get national recognition for a while. It seems now that this may be happening.