The Damian Lillard saga continues. With trade rumors surrounding the superstar guard, one team remains in the mix. According to an NBA reporter for Sportsnet, the Raptors are ‘confident’ in a trade package for Damian Lillard to outbid the Heat and Nets.
Michael Grange of Sportsnet believes the Raptors can still make a run for Lillard. It would have to include a trade package surrounding O.G. Anunoby. Grange points out that it “best fits the Trail Blazers’ youth-oriented timeline and provides elite perimeter defensive skills and high-end catch-and-shoot credentials.”
In addition, the Raptors “could throw their 2026, 2028 and 2030 first-round picks into a deal.” It would put them ahead of the Brooklyn Nets who also have draft picks to complete a trade. However, they would have to be “open to taking on the last two years of Ben Simmons’ contract” says Grange.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets & Toronto Raptors Updates
That being said, the Heat remain the top destination for Lillard. Although trade talks have stalled, it is reported that a trade to any other team will make him unhappy and fail to report. In fact, it was reported that Lillard would make things ‘ugly’ if traded to the Raptors.
Whether or not the rumors and reports are true, the Raptors seem to like their chances at Lillard. They are a team that convinced superstar Kawhi Leonard to play in Toronto after all. It did also lead them to a championship. That might be intriguing enough for Lillard to consider playing for the only Canadian team in the association.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets & Toronto Raptors Updates
Lillard signed an extension with the Blazers last summer that would have kept him until the 2026-2027 season. He will be owed $216 million over the next four years. The 33 year old has been subject of many trade talks and only time will tell where he lands next.
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