The Damian Lillard trade market could grow by one more team, and it is an organization that already has a pair of All-Star-level players on the roster.
One of the biggest stories over the last couple of weeks in the NBA has been the developing Damian Lillard trade market. Every report from those around the Portland Trail Blazers legend suggests his destination wish list begins and ends with just one team: The Miami Heat.
Related: Portland Trail Blazers massive asking price for Damian Lillard trade revealed
Nevertheless, that does not mean there are not organizations that have a serious interest in making a push to persuade the seven-time All-Star to expand the list of teams he would be willing to get traded to. However, only legitimate playoff teams with championship aspirations need to apply, which should narrow down the potential options.
While the Utah Jazz and even the Philadelphia 76ers have been rumored as contenders, one team that hasn’t been linked to a Damian Lillard trade is the Los Angeles Clippers. Well, that was until this week.
- Damian Lillard stats (’22-’23): 32.2 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 7.3 APG, 0.9 SPG 37% 3PT
Los Angeles Clippers want to join Damian Lillard trade chase
During a Monday appearance on “Sportscenter,” ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski revealed that “there are other teams like the Los Angeles Clippers, who would love to be a part of this process but don’t necessarily have the kind of assets to really get involved.”
The reason the Los Angeles Clippers lack the preferred assets for a Damian Lillard trade is that firstly, their two best chips — Kawhi Leonard and Paul George — are expensive stars with long injury histories. However, recent reports also suggest LA would like to hold on to both and add a third star. Something they have been pursuing in alleged attempts to acquire 76ers star James Harden.
Wojnarowski notes the Trail Blazers are not in love with the Heat’s offers thus far, and indications around the league are that a third team will need to get involved in a potential deal. If the Heat can add a third team, the Clippers could also ponder such a scenario.
Furthermore, if Lillard is looking to play for a playoff team with title hopes, while also staying on the west coast, the Clippers — when healthy — certainly offer a strong option.