Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal 

There’s an old saying that applies here. We’ll have to modify it in order to make it printable: Do your business, or get off the pot. 

The Blazers need to pick a direction. They can’t expect to surround Lillard with developmental projects and have success. If the goal is to win a title while he’s still in his prime, they need to make a big move. 

This feels like a perfect one. Lillard is an elite offensive guard who struggles on defense. Why not land an elite two-way wing?

If the Blazers can retain Jerami Grant in free agency, this deal could make them true title contenders in 2023-24. 

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat & Portland Trail Blazers Updates

Perhaps they didn’t need to trade Lillard after all.