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While the Portland Trail Blazers’ hot start has cooled, Damian Lillard has not. But this cooling has put a bigger burden on him, with the team going just 1-6 in its last seven games. Lillard’s effort thus far has been recognized by HoopsHype’s Alex Kennedy, who has Lillard No. 8 in his weekly MVP rankings:
Lillard continues to fly under the radar for some reason, but anyone who’s watched him knows he’s having a phenomenal season.
He’s averaging career-bests in points, rebounds and turnovers per game. Among all NBA players, he currently ranks fifth in made threes (68), sixth in points per game (27.0), second in offensive win shares (3.0) and ninth in value over replacement player.
Lillard is ahead of Stephen Curry (No. 9) and below Kawhi Leonard (No. 7). Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is the current No. 1.
You can find the entire rankings here.