NBA fans are keeping a close eye on the Portland Trail Blazers. Arguably, this franchise is more relevant than they’ve been in a long time. Unfortunately, it’s not for the reasons they’d like. Damian Lillard has finally requested a trade.
That’s unfortunate. Still, it’s not all gloom and doom in Rip City. The Blazers don’t need to start rebuilding – they already have. Between Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Anfernee Simons, the Blazers already have a remarkably talented young core. This team has a head start on their rebuilding process.
With that said, they should probably trade Lillard this summer. By all accounts, he wants to join the Miami Heat. We’ll look at that possibility, and a couple of other ones as well. Here are three trades we think the Trail Blazers have to consider.
Trade No. 1 – Blazers Send Damian Lillard To Miami Heat
Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Tyler Herro, G/F Duncan Robinson
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F/C Ben Simmons, F Jaime Jaquez Jr., 2025 First-Round Pick (PHX via BKN), 2027 First-Round Pick (MIA), 2029 First-Round Pick (DAL via BKN), 2029 First-Round Pick (MIA)
Miami Heat Receive: G Damian Lillard
We might as well start with the obvious. Of course the Blazers have to consider a deal like this one. In all likelihood, they’ve been considering this exact arrangement for over a month now.
Frankly, we think it makes sense. The Blazers should prioritize draft capital above all else in exchange for Lillard. Four unprotected first-rounders ought to satisfy them. Meanwhile, taking a flyer on Jaauez Jr. makes sense as well. As for the other teams involved here, the Nets are forfeiting some draft capital to flip Simmons for Herro, and the Heat are finally getting their guy.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Portland Trail Blazers, Damian Lillard, Miami Heat & Brooklyn Nets Updates
This may be the obvious move. Let’s assume the Blazers make it – what’s the next move? The Blazers may have a surplus of young talent, but all three of their potential core guys are guards. Could they flip one to diversify their roster?
Trade No. 2 – Blazers Send Anfernee Simons To Orlando Magic
Orlando Magic Receive: G Anfernee Simons
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac, F Chuma Okeke, 2025 First-Round Pick (DEN via ORL), 2027 First-Round Pick (Swap – ORL)
The Blazers don’t have to move Simons – even if they move Lillard. Sharpe has the size to play the 3. The Blazers could experiment with three-guard lineups on a full-time basis. In fairness, that trio could be the backbone of an elite offense in time.
What about the defense? Often, modern teams look for a more defensive presence on the wings. The Blazers could opt to pair Sharpe with Henderson in the backcourt. If so, Simons could be the odd man out. Meanwhile, the Magic could use a guard who can shoot. Simons is an elite floor spacer who’s young enough to grow with their developing core.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Portland Trail Blazers, Anfernee Simons & Orlando Magic Updates
Yet, there’s another potential trade chip on Portland. When the team extended Jerami Grant this summer, it feels likely that they’d assumed Lillard was sticking around. Now that he isn’t, they must be tempted to move Grant when he’s eligible to be traded. This next deal has them doing exactly that.
Trade No. 3 – Blazers Send Jerami Grant To Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F Rui Hachimura, F/C Jarred Vanderbilt, F Taurean Prince, 2029 First-Round Pick (Top-10 Protected – LAL)
This deal couldn’t happen right now – even if either side wanted it to. That’s probably perfect for the Lakers. If Hachimura is having a strong season, they won’t want to make this deal. He’s much younger than Grant, and the Lakers could see him as a long-term core piece.
By contrast, let’s assume Hachimura is performing at a similar level as he has for most of his career. If so, the Lakers could be looking for an upgrade as they approach the trade deadline. Grant should be one. The veteran forward is a superior shot-creator and defender. He’d be a great addition to this veteran roster.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Portland Trail Blazers, Jerami Grant & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Meanwhile, the Blazers should still be interested in Hachimura. Vanderbilt is an intriguing young player who they could have an interest in as well. Throw in a protected first, and this could be enough to motivate the Blazers to move on from Grant. Of course, they’ve got other priorities first.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
