During an NBA offseason full of trade rumors, perhaps no star player has had more speculation surrounding his future than Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard. Following a meeting on Monday between the seven-time All-Star and the organization regarding the direction of the franchise, Portland general manger Joe Cronin issued a brief statement Monday evening addressing the interaction.
“We had a great dialogue,” the statement read, per The Oregonian‘s Bill Oram. “We remain committed to building a winner around Dame.”
Despite the trade rumors, Lillard has been adamant about his desire to remain in Portland and play for a contender. He’s entering the third season of a four-year, $176 million extension. The Heat are reportedly interested in pursuing Lillard in a trade should the Blazers decide to make him available.