Mystery Eastern Conference Team Could Prevent Miami Heat From Acquiring Damian Lillard
Despite the Miami Heat being frontrunners to acquire superstar guard Damian Lillard, the Portland Trail Blazers have not ruled out attempting to trade him to another organization.
Lillard has emphasized playing for the Heat, but Portland continues to explore options. ESPN’s Marc Spears reported there is a darkhorse Eastern Conference team that could enter.
"I’m kind of hearing rumors about another Eastern Conference team that I’m not gonna throw out there just yet," Spears said on an appearance on NBA Today.
NBA fans are frustrated at Spears for not revealing the team, which has led to much speculation. Some believe this is a bluff on Portland’s part to force Miami into raising their package. Others have speculated the New York Knicks and Orlando Magic as potential suitors.
The Knicks could offer a superior package to the Heat because forward RJ Barrett, Evan Fournier, and multiple first-round picks trumps anything the Heat can offer.
Orlando is also a rising team with a young core that offers similar value. The Magic are in the market for a veteran star to pair alongside former No. 1 pick Paolo Banchero.
Regardless, the Heat still remain in the driver's seat.
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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci
