Damian Lillard to Heat Trade Getting More Complicated; 4th Team Could Enter the Picture To Make It Happen

MIAMI, FLORIDA - Damian Lillard (#0) of the Portland Trail Blazers drives past Caleb Martin (#16) of the Miami Heat during the second quarter at FTX Arena on November 07, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo : Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

It is no secret that Miami Heat wants Damian Lillard, and the Portland Trail Blazers want Florida to be his next destination.

However, the two have to play star-crossed lovers, as a straight-up swap seems out of reach.

The Blazers already made it clear that they are open for business with any teams in the NBA and are expected to pursue a favorable deal for their superstar.

Read more: Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards Reach $260 Million Deal

To make this happen, some teams need to enter the talks. Not just a third team but a fourth team, according to NBA Insider Shams Charania.

"Damian Lillard only wants to play for the Miami Heat ... I'm told there are 3- or 4-team scenarios in a deal with the Heat that would potentially net the Blazers several first-round draft picks," he said on The Rally.

"When you look at what Portland could want in a Damian Lillard deal, you're gonna want assets, young players potentially moving forward."

Clock Ticking for Dame Time

The clock is ticking for all parties in this situation. Miami Heat does not have enough assets to trade for Dame unless they want to let go of Bam Adebayo.

Brooklyn Nets, Lillard's next preferred destination, are in a more favorable situation. They have quality players to release to get the seven-time All-Star services, and they also have first-round picks they received from trading Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns last season.

Philadelphia 76ers could also enter the fray with James Harden becoming a free agent, according to another NBA Insider, Adrian Wojnarowski.

Related article: Heat's Trade Package for Damian Lillard Deal, Revealed

© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.