This was no more an embrace of Joe Cronin by Damian Lillard in his return to Portland than it was an embrace of Dan Gilbert by LeBron James in his return to Cleveland. In each case, the player wanted the city,

Before requesting a trade two years ago, Lillard swore he was loyal to Portland. With decision to return as a surprise free agent, he backed that up.

LeBron James became the only player in the NBA with a no-trade clause on Wednesday when the Phoenix Suns bought out Bradley Beal's contract.

BREAKING: Three-time NBA All-Star Bradley Beal has agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plans to join the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal with a player option after clearing waivers, Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/gxZB0ObSms

Damian Lillard is returning to his former home after becoming an unexpected free agent last week. The point guard has agreed to a three-year deal with the Portland Trail Blazers worth $42 million according to Shams Charania of ESPN.com.

New York Knicks guard Josh Hart disclosed his reaction to the Milwaukee Bucks waiving and extending the contract of star point guard Damian Lillard.