While other superstars have demanded trades or been left free in free agency, Damian Lillard has constantly preached loyalty to his team—despite the repeated years of disappointment on the court. But for a brief moment, it appeared that Lillard wouldn’t be too upset if the Trail Blazers decided to trade him as long as it was to one of these two teams.
While appearing on Showtime’s The Last Stand, Lillard was asked about possible trade scenarios that include the Knicks, Heat, Celtics and Nets and which would he prefer.
“Miami, obviously,” Lillard said. “Miami is the obvious one and Bam [Adebayo] is my dog. Brooklyn is another obvious one because Mikal Bridges is my dog too and both have capable rosters.”
Damian Lillard's response when asked which of the Heat, Knicks, Celtics, or Nets he wouldn't mind being traded to:
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) June 7, 2023
Miami and Brooklyn.
“Miami is the obvious one. Bam is my dog. Brooklyn is another obvious one because Mikal Bridges is my dog too. Both have capable rosters.” pic.twitter.com/UZEy6cvqIp
Lillard’s comments are interesting because the star point guard typically doesn’t entertain scenarios where he’d leave the team that drafted him in 2012, but maybe things have changed. After all, the 32-year-old is entering the final stages of his career while his team is in the middle of a full rebuild. Meanwhile, a team like Miami is in the midst of a Finals run.
Portland finished 33–49 this past season and Lillard averaged 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists in his 11th NBA season. Nothing is set in stone, but there is a scenario out there where Lillard doesn’t end his career with Portland.
