NBA trade rumors: UNEXPECTED update for Damian Lillard’s trade destination
Damian Lillard could be targeted by Brooklyn Nets in offseason trade
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Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers taps his wrist signifying "Dame Time" after a clutch three-point basket in the closing seconds against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 23, 2022. (image via Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
There’s speculation that Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard could be traded to the Brooklyn Nets during the offseason. Lillard was recently spotted courtside during the Nets’ playoff game against the Philadelphia 76ers, sparking rumors about a potential move.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, multiple NBA executives believe the Nets could be interested in acquiring Lillard if he and the Trail Blazers decide to part ways. However, it’s unclear whether the Nets have the draft capital and players to pull off such a deal.
One executive suggested that the Nets could use Ben Simmons’ contract for salary-matching purposes, but it would likely require attaching picks to Simmons on top of the picks needed for Lillard. The executive also noted that Lillard would be the leader the Nets need to compete against the top teams in the Eastern Conference.
Lillard has been with the Trail Blazers his entire career, but the team has struggled to make it to the playoffs in recent years. Lillard, who will turn 33 in July, doesn’t appear interested in rebuilding at this stage of his career.
A trade with the Nets could be a win-win scenario for both teams. The Nets have a strong roster with solid pieces, but they’re missing a high-end superstar who could help them compete against the likes of the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and 76ers in the playoffs. Lillard could be that missing piece for the Nets
Damian Lillard’s Accomplishments and Future Outlook
Lillard is one of the NBA’s top players with a resume that includes six All-NBA selections, and a spot on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team. He’s also been one of the league’s most consistent scorers, averaging over 20 points per game in each of his nine seasons in the NBA.
However, despite his individual success, Lillard has yet to win an NBA championship. He’s made it to the Western Conference Finals once in his career, but the Trail Blazers were swept by the Golden State Warriors in 2019.
At 32 years old, Lillard’s window to win a championship is starting to close. He’s made it clear that he wants to compete at a high level and doesn’t want to spend the rest of his career on a team that’s rebuilding.
However, it’s unclear whether a trade between the Trail Blazers and Nets will actually happen. The Nets would likely have to give up a significant number of assets to acquire Lillard, and it’s uncertain whether they’re willing to do so.
Overall, Lillard’s potential move to the Nets could be one of the biggest stories of the NBA offseason. As one of the league’s top players, Lillard would be a valuable addition to any team, and the Nets could be a perfect fit for him as he looks to win his first NBA championship.
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Vivek Yadav
(624 Articles Published)