Jrue Holiday is ready for his new chapter in Portland. The veteran guard spoke with DJ Siddiqi of RG about his offseason move to the Trail Blazers, emphasizing that his only focus is competing at the highest level.
“Goal is to win,” Holiday said. “The goal is to win and to make some noise. I think that after the last few years of what has happened after Damian Lillard being traded — and then now Dame’s back — I think it’s an exciting time here in Portland. It’s an exciting time to be a Trail Blazer, and I’m excited to be part of it.”
Holiday, a two-time NBA champion, was acquired in July in exchange for Anfernee Simons. Though he was briefly a Blazer in 2023 before being moved again, this marks his first time suiting up for the franchise.
At 35, Holiday brings 16 seasons of experience and a proven track record as a floor general and defensive anchor. He played the last two seasons with the Boston Celtics, helping them capture the 2024 NBA championship.
Now, he joins a Portland team that hasn’t made the playoffs since 2021 but has retooled its roster around a mix of veterans and young talent. The return of Damian Lillard, who signed with the Blazers in July after being waived by Milwaukee, adds further intrigue.
Holiday’s contract runs through the 2027–28 season, with a player option in the final year. He made it clear that he has no set retirement timeline. “Just kind of going with it,” Holiday said. “I’ll just continue playing until I can’t anymore.”
The guard also reflected on the longevity of his career, calling his 17 years in the league “a dream come true” and crediting his health and consistency for keeping him on the floor.
Holiday averaged 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists last season with Boston. While his scoring has dipped from earlier in his career, his defense and leadership remain key assets for a young Trail Blazers squad.
With Lillard recovering from a torn Achilles and expected to miss significant time, Holiday’s presence will be vital in stabilizing the backcourt alongside Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
