cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/2324154
“Recent media reports stated that Damian Lillard’s agent, Aaron Goodwin, called multiple NBA teams to warn them against trading for Lillard because Lillard’s only desired trade destination is Miami. Goodwin also made public comments indicating that Lillard would not fully perform the services called for under his player contract if traded to another team.
We interviewed Goodwin and Lillard and also spoke with several NBA teams to whom Goodwin spoke. Goodwin denied stating or indicating to any team that Lillard would refuse to play for them. Goodwin and Lillard affirmed to us that Lillard would fully perform the services called for under his player contract in any trade scenario. The relevant teams provided descriptions of their communications with Goodwin that were mostly, though not entirely, consistent with Goodwin’s statements to us.
We have advised Goodwin and Lillard that any future comments, made privately to teams or publicly, suggesting Lillard will not fully perform the services called for under his player contract in the event of a trade will subject Lillard to discipline by the NBA. We also have advised the Players Association that any similar comments by players or their agents will be subject to discipline going forward.”
Dame wanted to have a “puncher’s chance” at contending, and he can do that in a number of places. As a Blazer fan I want Dame to succeed, and I want him to get what he wants, but I also don’t want my franchise to be on the ass-end of a terrible trade. I really think if he had given us a few options that this would be over by now. People have questioned whether a number of Cronin’s previous trades weren’t perhaps overpays for what they got in return, but he always sent his players to places and situations they wanted to be in (Powell/Covington to LA, McCollum/Nance to NOLA, Hart to NY, Payton II to GSW). Doesn’t mean we have to entertain unreasonable offers if that’s what they are.
This is reasonable response by the league. Nothing wrong with having preferences but sabotaging the market to get Dame to Miami feels gross. I still think that’s where he ends up though.
Dame went from being the beacon of loyalty, to full on bitch made on less than 3 months…