Lillard Listed Among the Most Pivotal Players in the Playoffs

The postseason is here and Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard is featured on NBA’s marquee for the weeks ahead. Lillard, who helped guide Portland to a 42-30 record in the regular season, was featured in Sports Illustrated’s list of the most important players in the 2021 NBA Playoffs.

Sports Illustrated contributor Elizabeth Swinton placed Lillard at No. 3 on the list. Swinton explained the Lillard has the chance to push the Blazers past their recent postseason struggles with his offensive production.

The Blazers have had first-round playoff exits in four of their last six seasons, and now Damian Lillard has another chance to go the distance this year. Lillard has helped run one of the top offenses in the NBA this season and will be tasked in keeping that production up against the likely MVP Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets.

In the regular season, Lillard averaged 28.8 points and 7.5 assists per game. Only Steph Curry and Julius Randle finished above Lillard on the list. You can check out Swinton’s complete rankings at Sports Illustrated.