Lillard is using the 'snub' as motivation. (USATSI)
Damian Lillard is using the 'snub' as motivation. (USATSI)

With DeMarcus Cousins being named as Kobe Bryant's injury replacement for the 2015 All-Star Game in New York, that still leaves Portland Trail Blazers' point guard Damian Lillard on the outside looking in. Lillard was one of the toasts of All-Star weekend in New Orleans a year ago when he participated in five events, including his first All-Star Game. This year, he's currently slated for zero events, especially not as a West All-Star.

Lillard took time to post his thoughts about it on Instagram following the news of Cousins' selection by commissioner Adam Silver. He thanked the coaches, fans, and Silver for not selecting him in three different ways, clearly using the "snubbing" as motivation to continue to get better.  

I just want to thank the coaches who feel I wasn't good enough, the fans that didn't think I was good enough , and Adam Silver also for not thinking I was good enough. This isn't unfamiliar territory for me , it's actually what my life has been inspired by. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed or that I don't feel disrespected but it's not too much to handle. Not the first or last guy to be snubbed. "You should have been there" isn't good enough for me. But anyway, The reason I'm in these shoes is because I've always use the hand I was dealt to my advantage... A wise man once told me... " it ain't always gone be peaches and cream but somebody has to pay for the reason it's not ... One way or another " ... #ImThankful #Real#NonAllStar #RipCity #YellowTape

Lillard has been one of the most exciting guards in the NBA this season and has the most fourth quarter points in the NBA. His deadly 3-point shooting and offensive leadership have helped the Portland Trail Blazers get off to a 32-14 start. This ties them for third in the Western Conference with the Los Angeles Clippers and the Houston Rockets. Lillard was passed over so guards like Chris Paul, Klay Thompson, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook could all be on the team.

If teammates LaMarcus Aldridge sits out of the All-Star Game with his thumb injury that he's playing through, Lillard would likely be his replacement.