Damian Lillard Claims This Summer Left A ‘Sour Taste’ In His Mouth

After nearly three months since his trade request, Damian Lillard was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks instead of his preferred destination, the Miami Heat

For Milwaukee Bucks superstar guard Damian Lillard, this offseason was nothing short of chaos.

Lillard dealt with nearly three months of constant negotiations and rumors following his trade request to the Miami Heat in early July. Not being traded to his preferred destination negatively affected him behind closed doors.

Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes spoke with Lillard following the news of his departure.

"How this summer played out behind the scenes definitely left a sour taste in my mouth," Lillard said. "But it doesn't change the amazing experiences I've had with the Trail Blazers and this city. I'll always cherish this place. This is my home. I'll always live here regardless."

Lillard will always show love to the city of Portland after spending his first 11 seasons with the team. However, Lillard confirmed this offseason will hurt his view of the Trail Blazers front office.

According to Haynes, Lillard was prepared to withdraw his trade request and remain with the Blazers after finding out Miami was not the suitor. Despite Lillard’s change of heart, Portland’s general manager, Joe Cronin, declined, stating that “there was no coming back.”

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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci