- No Damian Lillard trade is imminent after weeks of rumors
- Heat discussing multi-team scenarios for Lillard deal
- Miami is considering trying to keep Tyler Herro on the roster
As the days turned into weeks following Damian Lillard’s initial trade request, the scene in Miami evolved from excitement to nervousness as fans eagerly await the arrival of the biggest star since LeBron.
And while the talks between the Heat and Blazers have yet to be productive, Miami is apparently trying to pull off the deal without sacrificing Tyler Herro, who is owed roughly $30 million per year. “While a deal does not appear to be imminent, the Heat have been internally discussing multi-team scenarios that would result in them not only landing Lillard but keeping emerging star Tyler Herro as well,” sources told ClutchPoints.
Outside of Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, Herro is arguably Miami’s best trade asset. Last season, in 67 games played for the Heat, Herro averaged 20.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game on 43% shooting.
He played a huge role in Miami’s offense, which struggled for most of the 2022-23 season. But now, amid the Damian Lillard talks, trading Herro has become their top priority.
The only problem is that the Blazers have no interest in Herro, which means the Heat have no choice but to look elsewhere if they want to get a deal done.
When Will The Lillard Saga End?
It’s been over a month now since Lillard made his initial trade request and it seemed the Heat are no closer to landing him now than they were when he first broke the news. The truth is, Miami doesn’t have a whole lot to offer the Blazers, who already have a loaded backcourt with Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe.
Until Miami approaches Portland with an offer up to par, Joe Cronin will just wait for a better package from someone else and he’s still got years on the clock before Dame’s contract expires.
If, somehow, the Heat can land Lillard and keep Herro, then it would position them as the favorites in the West for years to come. But if they somehow fail to strike a deal for the superstar guard, don’t be surprised if the Heat take a massive step back from where they were last season.
We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.
Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.
