How will Damian Lillard's role change after returning from his Achilles injury?
He may be used more off-ball and in catch-and-shoot scenarios to conserve energy and mitigate the impact on his shot creation.
Yanuki
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Sports / Basketball
Damian Lillard Proves He's Still an Elite Shooter After Achilles Injury
Damian Lillard is silencing doubts about his shooting prowess after an Achilles tear. He recently won his third 3-Point Contest at the NBA All-Star event and shared a video displaying his accuracy in practice. This comes as a huge relief fo...
Key Insights
- Damian Lillard won his third 3-Point Contest, joining Larry Bird and Craig Hodges as the only players to achieve this feat.
- Lillard posted an Instagram story showcasing his elite shooting, making 1,000 of 1,090 shots (92%).
- Kevin Durant shared insights on adapting one's game after an Achilles injury, suggesting Lillard might adjust his shot selection.
- The Blazers may use Lillard more in off-ball and catch-and-shoot scenarios upon his return.
In-Depth Analysis
Damian Lillard's recovery from an Achilles tear has been a topic of concern, especially considering the impact such injuries can have on a player's shooting ability. However, Lillard has wasted no time in dispelling those doubts. His victory in the 3-Point Contest not only demonstrated his skill but also served as a reminder of his status as one of the league's premier shooters.
Adding to this, Lillard's Instagram post showcasing his shooting accuracy further solidified his return to form. Despite his age (35) and the severity of the injury, Lillard seems poised to make a significant impact on the Trail Blazers' offense.
According to Kevin Durant, Lillard may need to adjust his game, particularly his reliance on deep three-pointers. Durant, who also recovered from an Achilles injury, noted the importance of adapting to one's changing physical capabilities. This could mean Lillard will be used more in catch-and-shoot situations, leveraging his floor spacing abilities without requiring as much shot creation.
The Trail Blazers, who have become a borderline playoff team even without Lillard, don't need him to carry the entire offensive load. If they can integrate him as a complementary piece, his presence could be enough to push them into serious contention.
FAQ
What impact will Lillard's return have on the Trail Blazers?
His elite shooting will provide much-needed floor spacing and improve the team's offensive efficiency, potentially pushing them into the playoffs.
Takeaways
- Damian Lillard is proving that he can still perform at an elite level after recovering from an Achilles tear.
- His return will significantly boost the Trail Blazers' playoff chances.
- Lillard may need to adapt his game, potentially focusing more on off-ball movement and catch-and-shoot opportunities.
- The Trail Blazers don't need Lillard to be the sole offensive force, allowing for a smoother integration into the team.
Discussion
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Sources
Disclaimer
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