Credit: Twitter
Damian Lillard is one of the most coveted players in the NBA right now and the Portland Trail Blazers star has reportedly requested a trade to the Miami Heat. Lillard has spent his entire 11-year career with the Blazers but is frustrated with the team's lack of success and direction.
The Heat are not the only team interested in Lillard, as he is generating interest from the Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers, among others, per multiple reports. However, Miami Heat and Brooklyn Nets are currently the realistic suitors for the 32-year-old. Lillard reportedly prefers the Heat as his preferred destination.
Also read: Celtics, Clippers, Pelicans, Timberwolves inquire for Damian Lillard
The Heat are preparing a package centered around Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, and some draft compensation, according to Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes. The Blazers are also reaching out to third teams to reroute Herro to make the deal work. The Heat may not have the strongest potential trade package for Lillard, but they have a proven track record of winning and a culture that appeals to him.
In talking about the potential of playing for the Heat, Lillard said on a podcast, "Miami is the obvious one. Bam [Adebayo] is my dog. Bam is my dog for real. But I mean I think Miami is the obvious one." Lillard then went on to talk about how he could also envision himself playing for Brooklyn saying, "Brooklyn is another obvious one because Mikal Bridges is my dog too. I mean, both have capable rosters."
Lillard still has two years left in his contract with Portland and they have no obligation to trade him to his preferred destination. However, Lillard has been loyal and respectful to the organization and the city of Portland for over a decade, so they may want to honor his request and avoid having a disgruntled superstar on their roster.
According to many experts, Lillard will most probably end up at Heat.
The point guard is one of the best players in the league, averaging 32.2 points and 7.3 assists per game last season, and is also known for his clutch performances and leadership skills. The seven-time NBA all-star would be a great fit for any team that is looking to contend for a championship next season.
The NBA offseason is full of surprises and twists, so nothing is certain until a deal is done. But as of now, it seems like Lillard is on his way out of Portland and Miami is his most likely destination.
