In the ever-evolving narrative of the NBA, where skill sets and talents are as diverse as the athletes themselves, Damian Lillard’s recent contribution to a Complex poll has sparked considerable discussion. The Milwaukee Bucks’ point guard, known for his sharpshooting and clutch performances, offered a surprising twist in his selection of the league’s top five most skilled players, notably excluding two-time MVP Steph Curry in favor of a figure from his past playoff confrontations.
Lillard’s Top 5: A Mix of Skill and Rivalry
Lillard’s list, echoing the sentiment of his peers, prominently featured stars such as Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, alongside Luka Doncic and Joel Embiid, who represent the pinnacle of basketball prowess in their respective roles. Yet, it was his fourth pick, Paul George of the LA Clippers, that turned heads and reignited discussions of past playoff dramas and on-court rivalries.
Paul George, once a playoff adversary with a history of tense moments against Lillard, has seemingly transcended past conflicts to be recognized for his skill by the Bucks’ guard. Their history dates back to a memorable first-round series in the 2019 playoffs, culminating in Lillard’s iconic 37-foot game-winner over George’s Oklahoma City Thunder. The shot, which George initially critiqued as a “bad shot,” has since become a defining moment in their rivalry.
The Evolution of a Rivalry
Despite their contentious history, the relationship between Lillard and George has seen remarkable growth, particularly highlighted by their reconciliation at the 2021 NBA All-Star Game. George’s acknowledgment of Lillard’s “crazy” range and the subsequent deep three-pointer that won the game for Team LeBron signified a turning point. This act of sportsmanship, coupled with Lillard’s philosophy of not holding grudges, underscores the transient nature of NBA rivalries and the mutual respect that can emerge from competitive fervor.
Damian Lillard warming up ahead of today’s game against the Clippers. pic.twitter.com/Lw32ZifY1Y
— David Mendez-Yapkowitz (@Dave_Yapkowitz) March 10, 2024
Snubbing Steph Curry: A Controversial Omission
Lillard’s exclusion of Steph Curry from his list is as noteworthy as his inclusion of George. Despite Curry’s impeccable resume and his history of playoff successes against Lillard, the omission speaks volumes about Lillard’s criteria for skill. It’s a bold stance, especially considering Curry’s impact on the game and his head-to-head playoff record against Lillard.
Conclusion: Skill, Rivalry, and Respect
Damian Lillard‘s selections for the NBA’s most skilled players offer a fascinating glimpse into the complex interplay of personal experiences, on-court encounters, and the evolving perceptions of player capabilities. By choosing Paul George over Steph Curry, Lillard not only highlights the subjective nature of “skill” but also the capacity for growth and reconciliation within the competitive arena of the NBA. This decision, controversial as it may be, emphasizes the depth of narrative and character that enriches the sport, inviting fans and analysts alike to appreciate the multifaceted stories that unfold both on and off the court.
In the grand tapestry of NBA legacies, rivalries, and friendships play as significant a role as the statistics and accolades. Lillard and George’s journey from adversaries to mutual respecters of talent encapsulates the dynamic human element of professional sports, a reminder that beneath the veneer of competition lies a profound respect for the game and its players.
