Late last month, the Portland Trail Blazers and Milwaukee Bucks agreed to a Damian Lillard trade. After a summer-long saga that seemed destined to go on forever, Lillard’s trade request was finally approved. However, it was not his dream destination—that would be the Miami Heat.
A trade to the Heat never materialized due to Portland not quite loving the package that the Heat could put together. However, according to Ben Maller of Fox Sports Radio, the Blazers potentially gave up on a Heat trade after Lillard’s agent, , made public comments on the deal.
While Lillard wasn’t traded to his dream destination of the Heat , there is no denying that he is on a contender. The tandem of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Lillard will be undeniably lethal. Many people predict the Bucks to be the favorite to win an NBA championship this year.
Lillard made it quite clear however that he wanted to go to Miami. Additionally, Goodwin made it clear publically that Lillard only wanted to play for the Heat. While trying to force the hand of the organization, it may have ultimately led to the Blazers feeling disrespected.
Only time will tell just how dangerous the Bucks can be. With the Lillard trade saga complete, it will now come down to performance on the court. While it looked like the Blazers were going to have to force their hand with Lillard, they ultimately were able to flip him for a great package.
The Heat will now have to look to make another deep run in the playoffs without adding Lillard.
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