Should the Portland Trail Blazers reconsider their exorbitant demands for Damian Lillard? As many NBA fans should be aware by now, the Blazers are in a difficult situation after their star point guard finally requested a trade from the franchise several weeks ago. To make matters more interesting, he revealed a strong desire to join the Miami Heat.
Since we are living in a player-empowered era, many NBA fans and analysts believe that it is only a matter of time before the Blazers decide to honor Lillard’s request and trade him. However, nothing has materialized as of this moment and all trade discussions seem to have come to a standstill.
Although one might assume that the Blazers have all the cards in their hands, especially since Lillard is still under contract, recent reports indicate that they should make the best of their situation and move on. That said, let us take a closer look and find out more.
Will Damian Lillard start next season with the Portland Trail Blazers?
There is no denying that Lillard is one of the best point guards in the NBA. An argument could be made that he is one of the best PGs in NBA history or at least in the top 10. Over the years, Lillard has singlehandedly kept the Blazers relevant and in contention for a spot in the playoffs.
Dame truly seems to care for the city of Portland and to win them a championship. However, as his dream grew less likely with every year, he has now finally decided to move on to a title contender. While the Blazers could force him to stay and play for their team next season, many NBA experts believe that it would be prudent for the organization to let him go and start the process of rebuilding.
“I understand that Portland looks at what the Rudy Gobert trade was, looks at what the Donovan Mitchell trade was, looks at the Kevin Durant trade and says hey Damian Lillard is one of the best players in this league We should get that kinda return. At the end of the day, that package is not going to materialize for Damian Lillard for a variety of reasons..”
“I understand the Blazers look at what the Rudy, Donovan & KD trades were & say ‘We should get that kinda return’. At the end of the day that package is not going to materialize for Dame for a variety of reasons. They should get the best deal they can & move forward” @TimBontemps pic.twitter.com/g9Hp9SbRwB
— Dru (@dru_star) September 18, 2023
Senior NBA writer Tim Bontemps went on to emphasize his stance, “So they can go into the season with a complete circus that’s going to ensue even though Dame is a pro and I’m sure he’s going to show up…But this is going to be a mess that they are going to have to navigate through. They should get the best deal they can get and move forward.”
While Dame is unlikely to make a scene or play badly for the Blazers, his very presence will undoubtedly be a distraction for the young team next season. Hopefully, Portland understands this and finds a way to move on from him as soon as possible.
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