One NBA writer is proposing that the New York Knicks acquire superstar point guard Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers this summer.
Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World proposed that the Knicks send guard Jalen Brunson, forward Obi Toppin and four first-round picks to the Blazers for Lillard.
“Lillard is a great fit for the Knicks’ culture,” Bitar wrote. “He is a hard worker and a team player, and he has a reputation for being a great leader both on and off the court. The Knicks have been focused on building a strong team culture in recent years, and Lillard’s presence could help them continue to develop that culture. The partnership alongside All-Star Julius Randle would also make the Knicks a formidable side with the starting lineup becoming Damian Lillard, Immanuel Quickley, R.J. Barrett, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson.”
“The Knicks clearly have the assets to make a trade for Lillard. They have several young players and draft picks that could be attractive to the Trail Blazers, and they have the cap space to take on Lillard’s contract. While it would be a big investment, trading for Lillard could be the move that puts the Knicks back on the map as a contender in the Eastern Conference.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & New York Knicks Updates
Lillard averaged 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists this season for the Blazers in 58 games. The seven-time All-Star shot 46.3% from the field, 37.1% from beyond the arc, and 91.4% from the free-throw line.
The Knicks lost to the Miami Heat in the 2023 Eastern Conference Semifinals in six games. Even though Brunson had a terrific first season in New York, Lillard is undoubtedly a better player than him, and the Knicks would be foolish not to trade Brunson if the deal nets them Lillard.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & New York Knicks Updates
A future Hall of Famer, Lillard signed a two-year, $121.8 million maximum veteran extension in July 2022. He will make $45.6 million next season.
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