Phoenix Suns PLANNING Devin Booker, Chris Paul’s superstar linkup with Blazers guard

Retaining Lillard or Trading Assets? Blazers' Decision Looms Large

Phoenix Suns PLANNING Devin Booker, Chris Paul’s superstar linkup with Blazers guard

Phoenix Suns planning to link up Damian Lillard

Damian Lillard is being eyed by the Phoenix Suns as their target All-Star guard from the Portland Trail Blazers. Reports suggest that the Suns are actively exploring avenues to bring Lillard into their fold, aiming to create a formidable trio alongside Devin Booker and Chris Paul.

The Suns’ actions demonstrate their commitment to advancing from their current position and becoming a true title contender.

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According to Heavy.com’s Sean Deveney: “There is a lot that can happen there,” the executive said. “The Suns need depth all over that roster. They want to free up their payroll. They want to see if there is a way to bring in Dame. They want to see what they can do with a Deandre Ayton deal. There is a lot on the table. And the [Los Angeles] Lakers need to know where they are going with [D’Angelo] Russell. They’re not just letting him walk. They traded a pick for him. And who knows if they could get Chris to sign a vet minimum deal or what?”

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The challenges in acquiring Damian Lillard

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Damian Lillard (credits – NBA.com)

While the Suns’ interest in Lillard is evident, securing his services presents significant challenges. The Blazers can retain Lillard with valuable trade assets, including the No. 3 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft.

Moreover, the Suns currently lack the young players and draft capital that would likely be required in a potential Lillard trade. The prospect of uniting Lillard, Booker, and Paul in the Suns’ backcourt is undoubtedly enticing. This trio possesses great prowess on offense and can devastate any opposing defenses they come up against.

Damian Lillard’s scoring prowess, Booker’s shooting and scoring versatility, and Paul’s playmaking skills would create a nightmare scenario for opposing teams. The synergy and leadership qualities of these three talented guards could elevate the Suns to new heights.

Damian Lillard’s stellar season and Portland’s decisions

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Damian Lillard (credits – The SportsRush)

During the recently concluded season, Lillard showcased his exceptional abilities as the Blazers’ primary offensive weapon. Although he put up great shows, the playoffs remained out of reach for the team. As Portland faces important offseason decisions, including the potential use of the No. 3 overall pick and the impending free agency of Jerami Grant, the organization must weigh the benefits of retaining Lillard against the potential returns in a trade.

For the Suns to acquire Lillard, they would need to assemble an enticing trade package that could tempt the Blazers. The centerpiece of any potential deal would likely involve Deandre Ayton, but the Suns have already depleted their draft picks due to prior trades. This scarcity of assets could pose a significant hurdle in their pursuit of Damian Lillard. Ultimately, it’s crucial for the Blazers to carefully weigh all options before deciding on an offer that can benefit their long-term plans.

While challenges exist in executing such a trade, the Suns’ pursuit of Damian Lillard demonstrates their determination to bolster their roster and contend for an NBA championship. As the offseason unfolds, the basketball world eagerly awaits the outcome of these negotiations and the potential impact on the league’s landscape.

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