Is Damian Lillard Still Underrated?

It has been talked about for the past three seasons, but is Damian Lillard still underrated? After multiple MVP type games this season, the question has been answered. No, Damian Lillard is no longer underrated. Along with making his third all-star game appearance this past February, Lillard has been shooting the lights out of the gym. Last night's game against the Lakers, he put up 39 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds in a come-from-behind win. He also hit four clutch 3's in the fourth quarter to secure the lead and gain the victory. Not enough? Lillard has twenty 30+ point games this year including a 50-point game on February 9th (ESPN). Even with all the games Portland is losing in, Lillard says that he still gives it his all and will shoot the ball until the clock reaches 0.00.

So why do people still say he is underrated? He comes from playing at a small college in Weber State, and playing on a team that has not had a lot of success in the playoffs the last eight years. And in a star-studded Western Conference, it is hard to make a name for yourself and compete with teams such as the Warriors and Rockets. I understand he is not a Lebron James or Kevin Durant, but the man is averaging 26.6 PPG, 6.5 APG, and 4.5 RPG for the season according to ESPN. Those are some MVP type numbers to me. Lillard has proven to be a true all-star and a leader of his team. The Trail Blazers are leading their Northwest Division in the West with a 38-26 record riding a recent seven game winning streak. At the end of the day, don't be surprised if you head Damian Lillard's name in the MVP conservation at the end of the season.