Damian Lillard: As a result of it’s completely different. It’s not like enjoying with Khris Middleton or Brook [Lopez] or Bobby [Portis]—you recognize, guys the place it’s nonetheless all constructed round him. He’s by no means performed with a participant of my caliber. Even Jrue—Jrue’s a big-time guard. However Jrue’s not a seven-time All-NBA, eight-time All-Star. You recognize what I imply? Jrue’s nice at lots of various things. In some methods, I feel his simplicity might need helped. As a result of Jrue didn’t care if he averaged 8 or 10 factors. Jrue would get a rebound, and if Giannis is clapping for it, he simply throws it forward. Final yr in Boston, Jrue was even within the dunker spot. However I’m a guy averaging 30 points a game. It’s a different ballclub. It was a big adjustment for both of us. Especially for me—going into a whole new environment, right? That was a big thing too.” -via YouTube / April 12, 2025
