Damian Lillard Denies ‘Trade Pact’ Rumors

Damian Lillard denied the existence of a trade pact between himself and late Trail Blazers owner Paul Allen. Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus reported that Lillard and Allen had an agreement in place that would have paved the way for the star guard to relocate to a new team if he wanted out of Portland.

Pincus explained the deal between the two parties hinged on Lillard’s happiness with the Blazers.

Lillard had an understanding with the team’s late owner, Paul Allen, that if a time came when the guard wanted out, the franchise would try to facilitate a move to his liking. Lillard hasn’t made that request, and it’s unclear if that verbal agreement still holds.

That report has since been denied by Lillard. Shortly after Portland’s victory over Washington, The Athletic’s Jason Quick provided Lillard’s response to the original story.

Lillard is under contract with the Blazers through the 2020-21 season. He’s scheduled to make $28 million this season, $29.8 million next, and $31.6 million in the final year of his deal.