Damian Lillard and the Portland Trail Blazers have obviously yet to settle their dispute. Last month, several teams came forth to help the Blazers facilitate a trade with the Miami Heat. While offers continue to be made, the Blazers have not shown too much interest in settling things once and for all. In fact, sources on Miami’s side have claimed the Blazers haven’t engaged in serious business as yet.
It is obvious that the 7x NBA All-Star’s preferred destination is Miami. Lillard has been quite vocal about it lately. But recent rumors claimed that his agent, Aaron Goodwin warned other teams against trading for him. The NBA interrogated Goodwin and Lillard over these rumors and an official statement released by the league claimed that they denied making these comments.
Full NBA memo sent to all 30 teams regarding rhetoric on trade request made by Damian Lillard and his agent Aaron Goodwin.
“Recent media reports stated that Damian Lillard’s agent, Aaron Goodwin, called multiple NBA teams to warn them against trading for Lillard because…
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 28, 2023
In addition to this, rumors stated that Damian Lillard would not perform his contractual duties if he were to be traded elsewhere. The point guard denied these claims as well while expressing his intentions to exercise his duties regardless of which team he is on. However, the league authorities left Lillard and Goodwin with a warning that such comments would lead to disciplinary measures.
NBA insider holds the Blazers responsible for the ongoing Damian Lillard dilemma
In addition to this, NBA insider Shams Charania highlighted the league’s warning to Lillard and his team. He claimed that it was also a warning to other players and agents across the league. Charania said, “This was a warning given to players or other agents around the league that you can’t just publicly come out and say you want to get traded to a specific team. Or refuse to potentially play for other teams. People will acknowledge the situation, even people in Portland. They understand that there is no shift in Lillard’s mindset, his ultimate goal of playing in Miami.”
On @TheRally, the latest surrounding Damian Lillard and the potential offer the Miami Heat have been preparing with 3-to-4 first-round picks: pic.twitter.com/GjyaYOOEbF
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 31, 2023
The insider further stated that it is Portland’s responsibility to orchestrate a trade for Damian Lillard. He added, “But at this point, it’s on Portland to find a deal with Lillard. This is a guy that’s played 11 seasons there. Arguably the best player in franchise history. He’s been loyal there for years. And Joe Cronin, the GM there, he came out publicly and said he will work to find a deal.”
Charania ended his take by revealing what the Heat have in store for Portland. He claimed the franchise has formed a new package with Tyler Herro as their main asset. Miami is planning to include 3-4 first-round picks and swaps, second-round picks, young players, and expiring contracts.
