Be wary of rumors. Sometimes, you hear a version of the truth. The same holds true in the NBA. You may think that you know something, but in reality, you’ve only heard something that’s close to the truth.
Take the current standoff between Damian Lillard and the Portland Trail Blazers. It’s been heavily rumored that Lillard is only interested in the Miami Heat. Some have suggested that he wouldn’t show up for training camp if he was moved to another team. Are we sure about that?
Is it possible that Lillard has a preference for Miami, but isn’t actually drawing so hard of a line? Meanwhile, if we’ve heard of one other suitor for him, it’s the San Antonio Spurs. Could playing for Gregg Popovich appeal to Lillard? How about running point alongside Victor Wembanyama? Here’s a deal that has Lillard landing in San Antonio.
The Trade Proposal
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G/F Keldon Johnson, G Devonte’ Graham, G/F Reggie Bullock, 2025 First-Round Pick (ATL via SAS), 2026 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2027 First-Round Pick (ATL via SAS)
San Antonio Spurs Receive: G Damian Lillard
Meanwhile, this Lillard situation has been hanging over the NBA’s offseason. How will it resolve? What uniform will he be wearing when the 2023-24 season kicks off? We don’t know, but we’re dying to find out.
If he starts the year in a Blazers’ uniform, it could get messy. It’s been rumored that Lillard wouldn’t report to training camp for teams that he’s not interested in playing for. Meanwhile, we know he’s not interested in playing for the Blazers. There’s no reason to believe Lillard will be open to playing in Portland over the 2023-24 season.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & San Antonio Spurs Updates
It would be best for both parties to resolve this situation. It’s time for Lillard to land on his new team. Whether it’s the Heat or another organization, we know that Lillard and the Blazers are heading for a divorce. Should the Spurs help facilitate that split?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
The Blazers had the third pick in what was a stacked draft. Their selection of Scoot Henderson could have solidified Lillard’s decision to request a trade. With that said, the Spurs had the first pick – and there was no drama surrounding who they’d select. As everyone expected, Victor Wembanyama is a San Antonio Spur.
Where do the Spurs go from here? We’re not sure. Some have argued that the Spurs should slowly rebuild around Wembanyama. Perhaps they should. On the other hand, getting him some instant playoff experience could have its own value. If the Spurs agree, acquiring Lillard would make total sense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & San Antonio Spurs Updates
After all, he’s one of the best offensive players in the entire NBA. If the Spurs acquired him, they’d be in the playoff hunt next season. They’d have to do their homework and find out whether Lillard is open to joining them. If he is, the Spurs could prioritize getting back into the playoffs with the remainder of their young core. Should the Blazers add to their young core?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
There’s no question that Portland should trade Lillard. Henderson is their point guard of the future. They obviously don’t plan on trading the soon-to-be-rookie. It’s time for Lillard to go. The only question is what the Blazers should prioritize in return.
This feels like a good package for them. Johnson is a strong young player. He’s a 3-and-D wing who can create his own shot when called upon to do so. He could be a perfect addition to a young core that already features Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & San Antonio Spurs Updates
Still, he doesn’t have Lillard’s trade value on his own. That’s why the Blazers are also landing three unprotected first-round picks here as well. All told, that should be enough for the Blazers to finally move on from Lillard and put these rumors to rest.
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