New York Knicks Receive: G Kyle Lowry, G Tyler Herro
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G/F Evan Fournier, G Derrick Rose, F Obi Toppin, 2023 First-Round Pick (NYK), 2023 First-Round Pick (MIA), 2027 First-Round (MIA)
Miami Heat Receive: G Damian Lillard
With this deal, the Portland Trail Blazers pass on Herro in favor of draft capital. Of course, they are acquiring a young player in Obi Toppin.
Their estimate of him will determine how they view this deal. If you prefer, swap him out for Dallas’ 2023 first-rounder. On the other hand, something tells us the Blazers may prefer the player in this case.
After all, Toppin began to emerge as a potential star down the stretch of 2021-22. Following this deal, the Blazers would likely afford him a larger role than he’s seen over his two years with the Knicks to date. Next year, they’d likely feature an offense centered around him and Anfernee Simons (assuming they retain him as a restricted free agent).
That’s not likely to be a world-beater, but the Blazers don’t need them to be. In fact, bottoming out ahead of the 2023 draft is its own benefit. If the Knicks deem Herro worth the cost of Toppin and a first-round pick, this deal could benefit both sides.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: NBA Executive Doesn’t Hold Back About Miami Heat Star Kyle Lowry
Otherwise, the Heat and Blazers will need another third team to land Lillard in South Beach.
