Orlando (United States) (AFP)
Portland star Damian Lillard, great architect of the presence of the Blazers in the qualifying play-off for the play-offs, was named best player of the end of the regular season played in the Disney World bubble, the NBA announced on Saturday.
The figures speak for themselves: in the last three games of Portland, required to win each time to stay in the race, Lillard managed 51 points (57% on shots) against Philadelphia, 61 points (53% ) vs. Dallas, 42 points (59%) vs. Brooklyn. With victory every time at the end.
His average, over the eight regular-season games played in Florida, is 37.6 points, 49.8% success, to which is added 9.6 assists.
Undoubtedly attacking leader of his team, able to score shots of the logo in the middle of the floor, he is also the one who brings him extra soul, evidenced by his interception on Caris LeVert at 1 min 11 sec from the end of the last game against the Nets, changing the fate of this meeting for the Blazers.
This Saturday, a last effort is to be made in the play-off against Memphis. A victory will be enough for Portland to validate his ticket for the 1st round of the play-offs and a duel that is already salivating the entire NBA against the Lakers of LeBron James. Otherwise, a second match will take place on Sunday, decisive this one.
Lillard was voted unanimously ahead of point guard Devin Booker, brilliant with Phoenix, and TJ Warren, performing in scoring with Indiana.
This trio naturally made up the best five at the end of the regular season, alongside Slovenian Dallas prodigy Luka Doncic and Houston star James Harden.
The second five brings together Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), Kawhi Leonard (Clippers), Caris LeVert (Brooklyn), Michael Porter Jr (Denver) and Kristaps Porzingis (Mavs).
Finally, Monty Williams was named best coach of the past fortnight. His Suns were the only ones to win their eight matches, coming close to a play-off.
© 2020 AFP