Get the Damian Lillard-to-Boston rumors started. Ever since Lillard posted a cryptic tweet following the Trail Blazers’ latest early playoff exit, there’s been speculation about the All-Star’s desire to leave Portland — despite just signing a super max extension.
And now, we can file this little nugget away: He’s been in touch with Jayson Tatum.
In a new feature story from ESPN’s Brian Windhorst about the construction of Team USA, the well-regarded NBA Insider reports Lillard consulted Tatum before joining the team. “Lillard was also in communication with Boston Celtics wing Jayson Tatum, who put off his decision on Team USA for some time after the season ended to evaluate his offseason priorities,” Windhorst writes.
Interestingly enough, Windhorst’s tidbit emerges right as Lillard has started to publicly express dissatisfaction with Trail Blazers fans for criticizing his previously reported support of Chauncey Billups, whom they hired last week as their new head coach. A rape allegation against Billups and former Celtics forward Ron Mercer from 1997 has drawn renewed attention amidst the coaching interest surrounding Billups. (Billups and Mercer reached a financial settlement with the woman.)
With Kemba Walker now in Oklahoma City, the Celtics have a clear need at point guard. They could put together an enticing package for Lillard, though it would likely have to include Jaylen Brown.
Tatum is entering the first year of his super max extension, just like Lillard.