In a candid revelation on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Milwaukee Bucks Head coach Doc Rivers shared insights about Damian Lillard’s condition as he entered training camp, shedding light on the All-Star guard’s offseason preparation. Rivers’ comments come in the wake of Lillard’s recent trade, adding a layer of context to the player’s physical state and performance as the new season unfolds.
Doc Rivers Statement
I didn’t even realize Dame was traded two or three days before training camp, we were at dinner, and he said, ‘Coach, I didn’t work out all summer. It’s the first time in my life that I’ve not worked out. I was so scared of getting injured working out. He knew he was going to get traded. So, he said, ‘You know, I did some light running. I did some shooting with no one in the gym. But I didn’t go (hard) at all.‘ … He was honest about it, and that’s one of the reasons you love him. He said, ‘This is the worst shape I’ve ever been in.
Rivers recounted a dinner conversation with Lillard, providing a rare glimpse into the player’s mindset and physical readiness. “I didn’t even realize Dame was traded two or three days before training camp,” Rivers began. “We were at dinner, and he said, ‘Coach, I didn’t work out all summer. It’s the first time in my life that I’ve not worked out. I was so scared of getting injured working out. He knew he was going to get traded.'”
Watch the Full Statement on Bill Simmons Podcast:
New BS Podcast!
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) June 13, 2024
—Jaylen
—DOC RIVERS makes a dramatic return to the pod
—We talked Milwaukee 2024
—Lots and lots AND LOTS of Celts stuff
—What happens Friday?
—I had a great time https://t.co/tJghptP0kb
Lillard’s apprehension about sustaining an injury while anticipating a trade led him to take a cautious approach during the offseason. “He said, ‘You know, I did some light running. I did some shooting with no one in the gym. But I didn’t go hard at all,'” Rivers elaborated. “He said, ‘This is the worst shape I’ve ever been in. ‘This uncharacteristic approach marked a stark departure from Lillard’s usual training regimen.
Rivers emphasized Lillard’s honesty about his condition, highlighting Lillard’s transparency and integrity. “He was honest about it, and that’s one of the reasons you love him,” Rivers said.
This forthrightness Shows Lillard’s character, even as he faces the challenges of adjusting to a new team and city. The admission also underscores the significant impact that the uncertainty of his trade situation had on his usual preparation.
Damian Lillard’s Stats
Despite entering the season in less-than-ideal shape, Lillard has managed to post respectable numbers. His stats for the 2023-24 season:
- Points per game (PTS): 24.3
- Rebounds per game (REB): 4.4
- Assists per game (AST): 7.0
- Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 42.4%
These figures highlight Lillard’s ability to perform at a high level, even when not in peak physical condition. However, the season has not been without its challenges. The team faced an early playoff exit, losing in the first round to the Indiana Pacers.
As the Off season progresses, Lillard’s physical conditioning will be a key factor in his performance and the overall success of his team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he adapts and improves his fitness levels.
Rivers’ revelation adds an intriguing dimension to Lillard’s season, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and considerations that professional athletes face. While Lillard’s honesty about his condition may come as a surprise to some, it ultimately underscores the complexities of managing an NBA career amidst the uncertainties of trades and transitions.
Also Read: NBA 2024 Free Agency: Key Players, Contracts, and Salary Details
As Lillard works towards regaining his top form, his journey will undoubtedly be a focal point for basketball enthusiasts.
