As the NBA world comes to grips with Damian Lillard’s trade request, the Miami Heat have cemented themselves as the leading candidate to become his next NBA home. After a trip to the NBA Finals this summer, the Heat immediately turned their sights to Lillard knowing that they’d be at the top of his preferred destination list.
For now, we presume negotiations are active and ongoing but the Blazers’ return for Dame may not be what most fans have in mind. In fact, as reported by NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Heat haven’t even been willing to include Caleb Martin in trade talks with Portland.
The Heat would prefer to keep Caleb Martin out of any Damian Lillard trade scenarios, per @ChrisBHaynes pic.twitter.com/XKrJksbKiZ
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 1, 2023
Of course, the Heat have the ultimate leverage in this situation. So far, they are the only team that Lillard has an interest in joining and it’s believed that the Blazers intend to honor Dame’s wishes.
Still, GM Joe Cronin could prolong this process if he doesn’t see a deal he likes. With at least four teams in the running for Lillard (probably more) the Heat may have no choice but to give up Martin, who averaged 9.6 points per game for them last season.
Are The Heat Title Favorites With Lillard?
If Miami does land Lillard, it will be at the cost of significant depth, but it’s hard to argue against a big three of Lillard, Bam Adebayo, and Jimmy Butler. Together, their mix of experience and playstyles would make an ideal fit.
Of course, Jimmy Butler recognizes this fact and it’s why he’s been trying to recruit Lillard for weeks. As for Dame himself, he chose the Heat specifically for a chance to win a ring.
“The Portland Trail Blazers have been informed that Damian Lillard wants a trade specifically to the Eastern Conference champion Miami Heat,” multiple sources tell The Athletic.
So, the ball is in Miami’s court now. As they negotiate with Portland, we will find out just how badly they really want the 7x All-Star.
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