Portland GM opens up about timeline of Damian Lillard trade

That’s terrible news for everyone wanting this saga to end but the right move for Portland. The Trail Blazers should absolutely hold out for a better offer than what Miami can give away in a trade.

As much as Lillard wants to play for the Heat, plenty of teams could see Lillard as the missing piece on a championship roster while offering more attractive packages.

Teams such as the 76ers, Celtics or Knicks would be justified in moving pieces to land Lillard as they go all-in on a title, like the Raptors did in 2019 when trading for Kawhi Leonard.

Miami should remain the favorite to land Lillard, however. The Heat likely need to involve a third team to get it done and Portland’s patience in completing a trade gives Miami time to find a willing partner. 

If it takes months, then so be it. That’s much more preferable to the Heat than another team swooping in and giving the Trail Blazers a better offer. If that happens, Lillard could still be traded in a matter of days.