You can’t always get what you want. That’s a lesson that even NBA players need to learn. An NBA player may have a preference, but sometimes, that preference simply can’t be satisfied.
Damian Lillard wants to go to the Miami Heat. It’s entirely possible that he will. At the moment, the two sides appear to be at a standstill. The rest of the NBA is waiting for the situation to be resolved. What if it simply can’t be resolved?
In that event, Lillard may have to pivot. If he’s suddenly willing to join other teams possibilities will emerge. There could even be some dark horse suitors for his services. Could the Chicago Bulls be one?
The Trade Proposal
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G Lonzo Ball, G Coby White, F Patrick Williams, G/F Dalen Terry, 2024 First-Round Pick (POR via CHI), 2027 First-Round Pick (CHI), 2029 First-Round Pick (CHI)
Chicago Bulls Receive: G Damian Lillard
On the other hand, it’s become easy to paint Lillard as selfish. Too easy. We don’t wish to do that. This situation is complicated. If you’re thinking objectively, you should be able to see it from both points of view.
Is it unfortunate that Lillard is insistent on joining the Heat? Absolutely. It limits the Blazers’ options on the open market. With that said, Lillard has committed his entire career to the Blazers. It wouldn’t be hard to argue that they mismanaged his prime. Why should Lillard owe the Blazers anything? He wants to go to Miami – who’s stopping him from doing everything in his power to make that happen?
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & Chicago Bulls Updates
All told the politics between star players and teams are gaining increasing significance. This is a situation that we’ll see more teams navigate in the future. For the time being, let’s assume that Lillard does expand his list of teams that he’s willing to join. Why would be include the Bulls?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
Indeed, this doesn’t make sense at face value. The Bulls were major underperformers in 2022-23. They did not appear to be a piece away from contention. Why would Lillard be interested in joining them?
Well, Lillard is a pretty major piece. Adding him could revolutionize any NBA team. Meanwhile, this Bulls team has plenty of talent. Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic all have star talent. This would be a completely different team in adding Lillard. More significantly, they’d be a much more talented group than the Blazers.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & Chicago Bulls Updates
This would be a massive risk. At the same time, the payoff could be enormous. The Bulls would suddenly have one of the most talented teams in the NBA on paper. Should the Blazers help them put it together?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
If the Blazers have any reservations about this move, they’ll have to do with Coby White. Allegedly, this team isn’t looking to land Tyler Herro in a deal with Miami. Why would White be any different?
Well, Herro would be the centerpiece of a Miami offer. Here, he’s more like a contract matcher. The Blazers should be happy to add a talented young backup for Scoot Henderson, but it’s a secondary benefit. More than anything, Portland does this deal for the draft capital. Receiving full control of their own 2024 pick is especially helpful.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers & Chicago Bulls Updates
With that said, Williams could end up making this look wonderful for Portland in hindsight. Injuries have hurt his career so far, but when healthy, he’s looked like a prototypical 3-and-D wing. The Blazers could stand to add a player of that type to their young core. That’s not something they want – it’s something they’ll eventually need.
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