Raptors Considered Frontrunner for Blazers’ Damian Lillard

And Marc J. Spears of ESPN asked two team executives, who Spears reported believe Toronto is indeed the frontrunner.

That said, Spears added the following:

“While the Raptors have had recent conversations with the Blazers about Lillard, no pact was close to being imminent as of Monday morning, according to a source.”

This is all news not because it’s some big secret that Lillard has requested a trade, or that the Blazers are working on trading him. But as the entire basketball-loving universe already knows, Lillard is seeking a trade to the Heat — period.

But Miami may not be able to offer the best possible package.

Per Spears, the Raptors’ offer could include the likes of All-Star forward Pascal Siakam, former Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes, and forward OG Anunoby, and/or rookie wing Gradey Dick. 

Granted, Toronto wouldn’t give up all of those players solely for Lillard, but any one of them (or more) could be included in a deal. And the names on that list would make it particularly enticing for Portland. It sure beats Heat guard Tyler Herro and two first-round picks — which is what Spears reported Miami initially offered.

The Bulls, Bucks, 76ers and Celtics are others who have expressed interest in Lillard, Spears added.