In the wake of Damian Lillard requesting a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers, one NBA writer is proposing that the Orlando Magic acquire the seven-time All-Star in a blockbuster trade.
Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World proposed that the Magic trade Jonathan Isaac, Wendell Carter Jr., Markelle Fultz, a 2024 first-round pick and a 2025 first-round pick to the Blazers for Lillard.
“The trade of Isaac, Wendell Carter Jr., Fultz, and two future first-round picks for Lillard could present an enticing opportunity for both the Magic and the Blazers,” Bitar wrote. “For the Magic, acquiring Lillard would instantly elevate their franchise and provide a much-needed star player to build around. Pairing Lillard with young talents like Cole Anthony and Franz Wagner could create an exciting and promising core for the Magic’s future. Lillard’s veteran presence would also provide valuable mentorship to their developing roster.”
While the Magic could put together an intriguing trade offer for Lillard, the franchise likely won’t trade for the superstar point guard since everyone in the NBA knows Lillard wouldn’t be happy if he doesn’t get traded to the Miami Heat.
Lillard only wants to get traded to the Heat. The Blazers, though, are “disinclined” to engage the Heat in serious Lillard trade talks, according to NBA insider Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. Since Lillard doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract, the Blazers can trade the Weber State product anywhere. Portland can even keep Lillard and force him to honor his contract.
Lillard averaged 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists last season for the Blazers. He will make $46.6 million next season. The future Hall of Famer signed a two-year, $121.8 million extension with Portland in July 2022.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Orlando Magic & Portland Trail Blazers Updates
The Blazers used Summer League in Las Vegas to get a fuller sense of the trade market for Lillard, according to NBA insider Sam Amick of The Athletic. Portland general manager Joe Cronin told NBA reporters in Vegas that he’s willing to wait months to trade Lillard.
The NBA sent a memo to all 30 teams in the wake of Lillard requesting a trade to the Heat. Lillard and his agent, Aaron Goodwin, can no longer talk about wanting to play for Miami. The Blazers have thus far not been impressed with the Heat’s offers for Lillard, who has career NBA averages of 25.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.7 assists. Portland is seeking four first-round picks and two quality players in return for Lillard.
Lillard expressed his frustration with the Blazers failing to construct a roster capable of competing for a championship. He felt the time was now to request a trade after coming off a career season.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Orlando Magic & Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Lillard was upset the Blazers didn’t trade the third overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft for a star player. Portland drafted Scoot Henderson, who plays the same position as Lillard, with the third pick.
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