Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal 

The Blazers may want to explore the trade market before hitting this panic button. 

In fact, they may want to explore different conversations with the Raptors. If Pascal Siakam is available, the Blazers may opt to send out everything they can in order to pair him with Lillard. 

Let’s assume he isn’t. Moreover, let’s assume there’s not a star on the market who compliments Lillard. In that event, the Blazers may see that their window to contend has closed. 

In that event, this is a good deal. Anunoby has a case as the best 3-and-D wing in the league, and he’s only 25.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & Toronto Raptors Updates

Throw in another solid young player and three unprotected firsts, and this may entice the Blazers to call the Lillard era off. 

Should the Raptors begin a new Lillard era in Toronto?