The Portland Trail Blazers very quietly have the third-best record in the Western Conference behind the two powerhouses of Houston and Golden State, and a huge reason for their successful season so far is all-star point guard Damian Lillard. Without question, C.J. McCollum is one of the best shooting guards and scorers in the league, but Lillard is, without doubt, the main guy in Portland, and he is doing a great job with his team so far this season. When talking about powerhouses in the Western Conference, Golden State and Houston are always mentioned while teams like San Antonio and Oklahoma City are also added to the conversation, but the Blazers often go untalked about.

But there is no doubt that the Trail Blazers’ star point guard is one of the most elite talents in the league, averaging 26.9 points, 6.5 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game this season while having huge performances for his squad in recent weeks. And the world-renowned best player in basketball has a lot of appreciation for the all-star from Oakland, California.

No doubt a superstar

When speaking of superstars in the National Basketball Association, there is no doubt that names including LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard as well as a few others should be named. Before the Cleveland Cavaliers faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night, King James spoke to the media and talked about the upcoming matchup, and more specifically about their point guard.

LeBron James on Damian Lillard:

“That guy’s a superstar in our league, and he’s showing it right now. He’s leading the team (and) has them in position to fight in the West.”

Future teammates?

Out of all the rumors about LeBron James and his future, one of the most unlikely ones would be the King changing career tracks and joining the Portland Trail Blazers.

However, LeBron made a comment which may have a lot of meaning when talking about Damian Lillard and his superstar level play. After complimenting the point guard, LeBron was asked about the plain disrespect and underappreciation Lillard receives from the media and fans and was asked whether he thinks Damian uses it as motivation.

James said:

“No, I don’t think so… I like how he uses that. If you’re a true basketball (mind), there’s not a lot… but for me, I understand it, I know. Give me Damian Lillard. I’ll show you how appreciated he will be.”

Giving Damian Lillard would certainly spell trouble for opponents around the league, whether it be in Cleveland, Portland, Team LeBron, Team USA or any other team in the league, a duo of LeBron and Dame would be something special. It could be the second coming of LeBron James and Kyrie Irving.