What’s going on in Portland is “probably the most fascinating thing in the league,” according to NBA Insider Brian Windhorst, and he’s not wrong.
Their star player, Damian Lillard, has made it abundantly apparent that he does not want to play with prospects who will need two to three years to develop.
The almost-33-year-old is looking for a championship-caliber squad and wants it fast!
However, the Blazers have now been given the third choice in the 2018 NBA draft, a pick that has historically held a high value.
Carmelo Anthony, James Harden, Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, and Luka Doncic were selected third overall in their respective drafts.
So, if the Blazers elect to keep their pick, Lillard may walk, and Miami would be an ideal destination for him, according to ESPN’s Windhorst.
“It feels strange to me to talk about a team in the Finals, like the Miami Heat, but the Miami Heat make a lot of sense if Dame were to become available,” according to The NBA Insider. “They have a bunch of future first-round picks to deal. They have a lot of interesting young talents. It would be an incredible opportunity if he came to market.”
Windhorst has floated the Dame-to-Miami concept before, saying in April, “I would put them on the list for Dame Lillard if Dame ends up getting traded.”
He also believed that much of the Heat’s offer would revolve around guard Tyler Herro, who has been ailing for nearly seven weeks and hopes to return to the NBA Finals soon.
If Miami does not win a trophy, it is evident that they should look for another high-impact, trustworthy player to combine alongside Jimmy Butler.
Lillard is unquestionably that player, averaging 32.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds in 58 games this season.
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