Portland Trail Blazers rumors and drama pushing Damian Lillard away

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Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) is recognized for earning a spot in the All-Star Game by Chris McGowan, president and Chief Executive Officer of Vulcan Sports and Entertainment, left, Jody Allen, chair of Portland Trail Blazers, and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts (Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports) /

Everyone knew at the beginning of this NBA season that the Portland Trail Blazers would need to be on their best behavior if they wanted to retain Damian Lillard. For the first time in his career, Lillard made no secret of his disappointment in the team and left the door open for taking his talents elsewhere.

So far, this season has been a disaster for Portland and has led many to believe that it’s only a matter of time before Lillard packs his bag and heads to a different team. The issues plaguing the Blazers aren’t restricted to what’s happening on the court, either. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes drama that shows how dysfunctional and troubled the franchise really is.

There is still time to right the wrongs and correct the ship, but as the season moves forward, it seems more and more likely that the troubles in Portland could result in Damian Lillard abandoning them. Here are the biggest issues currently causing chaos in Rip City.

Portland Trail Blazers rumors and drama: Blazers president and CEO steps down

It was announced today that Portland Trail Blazers president and CEO Chris McGowan is stepping down from his position at the end of this month. Executive vice president and CCO Dewayne Hankins will be the new president.

In the official statement, McGowan thanked his “amazing” staff and promised that the team was in good hands moving forward.

This abrupt departure came out of nowhere and proved just how hectic and troubled the front office of the team is. It comes after an investigation was opened into general manager Neil Olshey.

It is assumed that McGowan’s departure is somehow related to the investigation, but that remains to be seen how. Recently, it was reported by Chris Haynes that the independent review by a law firm “has been extended” to “interviewing individuals outside of personnel at the practice facility and including former and current employees.”

As of now, we don’t really know how McGowan’s resignation is related to this investigation, but there is a good chance more information will be revealed soon. Regardless of why McGowan is stepping down, this news is yet another speed bump on the team’s path to success and is surely weighing heavily on Lillard.

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