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Damian Lillard is trying to force his way to Miami, and there could be some drama brewing.
Over the weekend, Lillard requested a trade out of Portland, and initial reports were that the team was trying to accommodate him.
ESPN Sources with @RamonaShelburne: Portland G Damian Lillard has requested a trade and the franchise is expected to work to accommodate him. pic.twitter.com/Qhrdj70sFX
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2023
Blazers general manager Joe Cronin would later release a statement saying that he would honor Lillard’s trade request but would try to get the best deal for the team.
“We have been clear that we want Dame here, but he notified us today he wants out and he’d prefer to play someplace else,” “What has not changed for us is that we’re committed to winning, and we are going to do what’s best for the team in pursuit of that goal.”
According to ESPN, the Blazers are looking for a star in return, while Lillard prefers to go to the Miami Heat.
Front offices talking to Portland on Saturday were left with the impression that Cronin is pursuing a star-level return package for Lillard, and that the GM plans to look well beyond the Heat to find one, sources told Wojnarowski.
On Monday, several reports surfaced claiming that Lillard is adamant that he wants to be traded to the Heat and things could get ugly if the Blazers have other ideas.
NEW: Even as Portland speaks of canvassing league to do what's best for them, Lillard remains unwavering, resolute, adamant in determination to get to Miami, sources reiterated to me and @Anthony_Chiang. PLUS Richardson, Strus, Bryant, more notes: https://t.co/echHIzo97z
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) July 3, 2023
Look, Lillard has made his decision. If Portland tries to burn him, I expect drama will ensue https://t.co/ZO4vWSwKcB
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) July 3, 2023
Blazers Insider @AaronJFentress says Damian Lillard and his agent could force his way to Miami
“Let's say a team stepped up… with a Durant-like package, and Dame and his agent tell that team, 'Dude, we're not coming to play for you.' That'd be franchise suicide for a team to… pic.twitter.com/b33vt9UuyU
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 3, 2023
Several teams outside of the Heat have called the Blazers to inquire about Lillard.
Clippers, Timberwolves, Celtics, and Pelicans are all among teams "to reach out" about a potential Damian Lillard trade, per B/R's @ChrisBHaynes pic.twitter.com/6fFaLZwTFd
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 3, 2023
It seems like Lillard’s demand to play for the Heat is working as other teams are reportedly reluctant to trade for him if he’s not happy.
There remains a strong belief a deal to Miami remains the most likely outcome for Damian Lillard, per @ShamsCharania
Rival teams are hesitant to offer a compelling package without assurance that Lillard would be happy to join them. pic.twitter.com/1a8vdKP2yd
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 3, 2023