NBA: Each Team’s Most Important Player Heading Into 2015-16

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Feb 22, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) dribbles the ball through his legs against Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) at Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports

Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers

2014-15 Stats: 21.0 points, 6.2 assists

Sometimes it is that easy. For the Portland Trail Blazers, who lost four of their five starters from last year’s team, this season is going to fall on the shoulders of one Damian Lillard.

If the Blazers are going to be any factor in the Western Conference this season, which appears to be a long-shot, Lillard is going to have to put together an MVP-like season.

Surrounded by the inexperience that he’ll have to work with this season, Lillard must play beyond his years. This may only be his fourth season in the NBA, but Lillard will need to be the savvy veteran this year.

Next: Sacramento Kings