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Blazers' Lillard sets sights on MVP title

Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Damian Lillard's expectations for his 2016-17 season are high. So high, in fact, that the Portland Trail Blazers guard isn't looking for less than becoming the NBA's best player, according to Kerry Eggers of the Portland Tribune.

“I want to be the MVP," the 26-year-old said of the personal goal he set. "If we come out and do the things we’re capable of doing as a team, if we win games, that means my performance will be at the level of an MVP.”

But Lillard knows that being the league's most valuable means taking his team into the far realms of playoff action – the Blazers have to improve by leaps and bounds to earn a trip to the conference finals. Portland finished the season 44-38, before losing 4-1 in the second round of the playoffs to the Golden State Warriors.

Nevertheless, coach Terry Stotts is pleased that the two-time All-Star's aspirations are so lofty.

“It’s great,” Stotts said. “Damian doesn’t run away from any challenge. He sets the bar high for himself. He sets the bar high for his team and teammates. That’s the best way to succeed and have achievement, to have those expectations.”

Lillard finished eighth in MVP balloting last season.

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