4 NBA superstars who request a trade this offseason

PORTLAND, OREGON - DECEMBER 23: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers dribbles against Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz during the first half of the game at Moda Center on December 23, 2020 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

3 of 4

Feb 20, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Damian Lillard is honored during halftime during the 2022 NBA All-Star Game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 4 NBA superstars who request a trade this offseason. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

4 NBA superstars who request a trade this offseason – Damian Lillard

You knew he was going to be here eventually. Damian Lillard has been the next superstar trade in line for years, yet he continues to show his unbridled loyalty to the Blazers. That’s certainly admirable, but as he watches the front office once again scramble to build around him, he must know time is ticking.

The superstar is pushing 32 years old and is dealing with an injury that could end up ending his 2021-22 season after just 29 games. Like Williamson, it’s a legitimate question whether or not he’s played his last game in Portland.

Whether he’s bouncing for a bigger market or in search of a title, the guard could easily force his way out and into a better situation. The team flipped CJ McCollum and made future cap space at the deadline, and could make a splash this offseason in hopes of luring him back for one last run.

His loyalty will certainly be tested, that’s for sure. Nearly every team in the league would love a star of his stature, but his massive contract makes a prospective deal a bit more challenging than say, Williamson or Mitchell.

But if he wants out, he’ll likely get out. Sorry, Rip City.