Media

Damian Lillard Confident in Possible 1st-Round Matchup With Lakers: ‘We Could Beat Them’

Published by
Justin Benjamin

Portland Trail Blazers superstar Damian Lillard is extremely confident.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, the guard said he believes the Trail Blazers can defeat the Los Angeles Lakers in a potential playoff matchup this year.

“Of course,” Lillard said when asked if he wanted a first-round battle with the Lakers. “I think we could beat them.”

Lillard, 29, is not one to back down from anybody.

While Lillard’s team is currently sitting in the No. 9 spot in the Western Conference standings, there is no doubt the All-Star is going to do everything in his power to will the Blazers into the playoff bracket.

The fierce guard is having a tremendous year. He is averaging 28.9 points, 7.8 assists and 4.3 boards per game this season.

The boldness in his statement to declare that the Blazers are capable of defeating the top seed in the Western Conference may seem ludicrous. However, Lillard and the Blazers have shown they can beat the Lakers.

During the last regular season matchup between the Lakers and Blazers in January, Lillard put on a remarkable performance. He went off for 48 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in an entertaining 127-119 victory over the Lakers.

Certainly, a first round matchup between the Blazers and Lakers would be extremely fun for fans to watch.

Justin Benjamin

Justin’s enormous respect for LeBron James has ignited him to write for the King and Lakers. His all-around analysis and heart for the game has made him a stellar NBA writer and proud staff writer for Lakers Daily.

Published by
Justin Benjamin

Recent Posts

Sources: Lakers have strong interest in re-signing Luke Kennard

The Los Angeles Lakers have strong interest in re-signing Luke Kennard this offseason, sources told…

March 16, 2026

Sources: Lakers to offer Austin Reaves $240M, have ‘no fear’ of losing him in FA

The Los Angeles Lakers plan to offer Austin Reaves a five-year, $240 million contract this…

March 11, 2026

Sources: LeBron James not interested in playing for the Warriors

LeBron James is not interested in playing for the Golden State Warriors next season if…

March 9, 2026

Sources: Steph Curry, Draymond Green to ‘heavily recruit’ LeBron this offseason

Golden State Warriors legends Stephen Curry and Draymond Green will heavily recruit LeBron James this…

March 2, 2026

Sources: Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves to have big say in if LeBron is back with Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason for the…

February 27, 2026

Report: Feeling around NBA is LeBron will play ‘at least’ one more season

Los Angeles Lakers superstar forward LeBron James turned 41 years old during the ongoing 2025-26…

February 19, 2026