Efficient, but not yet extraordinary, Damian Lillard entered the fourth quarter of the NBA Cup Quarterfinals with 13 points, an opponent too close for comfort, and, perhaps most importantly, a thousand proven ways to leave the game’s prevailing statement. Taking a page from a professional wrestler’s book, Lillard — perfectly on cue in recognizing the game’s final minute — prepares to utilize a long-stored finishing move, working an inverted pick-and-roll that presents a one-on-one against Wendell Carter Jr.'s contest. Proving “Dame Time” to be something aging like fine wine, the eight-time All-Star turns back the clock with a double stepback, generating the needed space for a game-tying stepback triple. In need of another act of greatness with the Orlando Magic gripping a one-point lead, Lillard re-arrives, leaving Anthony Black in the dust with a stop-and-go dribble that sets his path for a go-ahead layup. As confirmed through faces on the instant replays thereafter, the crowd of 17,341 were both livened and amazed, yet not surprised, given Lillard’s track record of crunchtime coolness. Buoyed by nine points in the final 52 seconds, Lillard finished the must-win game with 28 points (on 8-of-15 shooting), two rebounds, nine assists, one steal, and two 3-pointers. · Dec 11, 2024