Could Lakers and Blazers Swing an Offseason Trade to Bring Damian Lillard to LA?
If you look up a picture of loyalty in the dictionary, you'd see a picture of Portland Trail Blazers superstar point guard Damian Lillard. He was drafted by the Blazers in 2012 and, despite not making an NBA Finals, has stayed loyal to the team ever since.
It's almost become a joke how loyal Dame is to Portland. In an era when everyone in the NBA is jumping ship and forming superteams, Dame has stayed true to the city that took a chance on him in 2012. However, at some point, that has to come to an end...right?
Lillard has consistently been linked to the Lakers over the last few seasons, however, his loyalty has remained strong. But, the Blazers are in the midst of another losing season, and this offseason, he could finally decide that enough is enough. And if he does, the Lakers will be ready to make an offer to form one of the best big threes in NBA history.
You may be wondering what the Lakers would possibly have to trade to acquire a superstar of Dame's caliber. And the answer is not very much. They likely won't have an offer that could compete with other teams, but, if Lillard "demanded" a trade to the Lakers, the Blazers would likely grant his wish.
So, what would the offer look like?
If the Lakers weren't to include LeBron James and Anthony Davis in the deal, it would revolve around a sign-and-trade with new (and also old) Laker D'Angelo Russell. A deal with Russell, Malik Beasley (who has a team option), Jarred Vanderbilt, Max Christie and all the draft pick compensation the Lakers have would at least give the Blazers a decent return for their superstar.
The headline pick of the package would be an unprotected 2029 first-round pick, and the rest would be every second-rounder the team has to offer. While it wouldn't be the best package Portland could get, if Dame wants to be in LA, this would be the package to get it done.
Is this deal likely? No. Is it likely Dame even requests a trade this offseason? Probably not. But here in Los Angeles, we like to dream. And there's no bigger dream than bringing seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard to LA.
