The Miami Heat’s chase of Damian Lillard is still in limbo, and it doesn’t seem like that will change any time soon. The Blazers want the Heat to “scrounge” and provide the greatest trade package for the All-Star guard, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, via the Hoop Collective podcast.
“They want the Heat to literally scrounge into every nook and cranny and produce everything they possibly can. The Heat don’t feel a need to do that,”
Brian Windhorst
Since he asked Portland for a trade in July, Lillard has indicated that Miami is his preferred destination. There are currently no other significant suitors in the negotiations, which has created an impasse that might last into training camp.
Joe Cronin, general manager of the Blazers, has made good on his vow from July that the scenario may extend for months by insisting on getting the best deal for Lillard. However, if the two parties want to have a settlement in place before the start of the regular season, there is a short window for discussions.
“What the Blazers want, if they’re dealing with one team, if it is Miami or nothing, they want what the Nets got from the Suns [for Kevin Durant], which is the Suns literally scrounging.”
Brian Windhorst
In less than two weeks, training camp will begin. Lillard’s request for a trade poses a threat to Miami’s and Portland’s efforts at team building. Lillard’s presence may endanger the growth of the Blazers‘ young core.
If another party doesn’t come through with the kind of offer Portland is looking for, it would be best for everyone involved to find a middle ground and complete a deal. However, only time will tell if Lillard is able to arrive at his dream destination or not.
