Is The Portland Trail Blazers Delay Trading Damian Lillard Justified?

Portland Trail Blazers All-Star guard Damian Lillard requested a trade to the Miami Heat on July 1. Meaning his request took place over a month ago. There has seemingly been no major progress in completing a trade.

Begging the question of whether the Blazers are justified in holding out on trading Lillard to the Heat.

Portland is looking to begin its rebuild after 11 seasons of attempting to contend around Lillard. They are hoping to acquire young assets and draft capital to pair alongside No. 3 pick Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.

Miami has put forth an offer sending Tyler Herro to a third team, multiple first-round picks, expiring contracts, and a young player. However, the Blazers seem hesitant to even entertain this package, likely in hopes that another team reaches out.

Although Lillard’s contract does not contain a no-trade clause, his agent, Aaron Goodwin, has made it clear around the league that he only wants to play in Miami. Since then, the NBA has sent a memo to all 30 teams regarding his agent’s statements.

The reality of the NBA is that a star player could become unhappy with their current situation at any time, resulting in a trade request. Portland is awaiting this scenario before entering serious negotiations with the Heat, settling for their offer.

However, as time progresses, Miami gains more power in the situation as Portland loses interest from other organizations. Meaning they may be forced to settle for a lesser package in exchange for the seven-time All-Star.

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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at anthonypasciolla36@gmail.com or follow him on Tik Tok @anthonysports_