Draymond Green Re-Signing With Golden State Raises Stakes For Potential Trade Of Damian Lillard To Miami Heat

The Miami Heat perhaps received some good news regarding their pursuit of Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard.

According to an ESPN report, Draymond Green has reportedly re-signed with the Golden State Warriors. There was speculation Lillard wanted Green to join the Blazers so he could remain in Portland.

Instead, Green is expected to sign a four-year, $100 million deal with a player option in the final year to remain with the team through the 2026 season.

Breaking: The Warriors and Draymond Green have agreed to a four-year, $100 million contract with a player option in the final season, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/XNcS6ZaV4N
— ESPN (@espn) June 30, 2023

Lillard has voiced a strong desire for the team to make significant moves this summer. The Trailblazers missing out on Green could impact both the Heat and Portland’s offseason.

Miami is considered Lillard’s most probable trade destination this summer. After missing out on Green, Lillard may request a trade if Portland is unable to sign other free agents. The Trailblazers small-market status poses challenges in attracting big-name free agents, making it difficult to make substantial moves to help their roster.

The Heat are aiming to form a Big Three with Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Lillard. Miami hopes he is the piece that pushes them over the top after losing in the Finals twice in the last four years.

Lillard’s other stipulation was resigning forward Jerami Grant, who the Blazers are expected to sign to a five-year, $160 million contract. This move could encourage him to stay as he sees the Trailblazers striving to cater to his requests.

Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at anthonypasciolla36@gmail.com