Could Jaime Jaquez Jr. Be The Cause Of Delay In The Damian Lillard Trade?

The Portland Trailblazers are hoping to receive multiple young assets from the Miami Heat in exchange for Damian Lillard.

NBA writer Tim Reynolds said on The Saturday Stein Line with Marc Stein that he believes Jaquez could be connected to the holdup.

"Jaime Jaquez is eligible to be traded August 1st. I have to wonder if that’s part of the holdup," Reynolds said. "When more assets become available for trade. I think it’s gonna happen before we all leave for the Philippines [for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 beginning August 25th]."

Lillard requested a trade roughly three weeks ago. Portland could be holding out to get the best possible return for the seven-time All-Star. The No. 18 pick in this year’s draft, Jaquez, could be an asset the Blazers are looking to receive to jumpstart their rebuild. Due to NBA regulations, rookies may not be traded for 30 days after they sign.

Jaquez played in only two Summer League games before sustaining a shoulder injury against the Sacramento Kings. The front office showing confidence in him after only two games is a sign he may be sticking around if possible.

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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_