Damian Lillard trade: Looking at the top three potential destinations if the Portland Trail Blazers star is dealt

Damian Lillard is in the midst of yet another strong season. The Portland Trail Blazers star is averaging 28.0 points per game, 3.9 rebounds per game, 7.1 rebounds per game, 0.9 steals per game, and 0.2 blocks per game while shooting 44.8% from the field, 39.1% from three-point range, and 90.4% from the free-throw line.

While the Trail Blazers started the season strong, they are just 17-16 and currently sit in ninth place in the Western Conference. Despite Lillard's long-time loyalty and commitment to the franchise, his name has remained in trade rumors due to Portland's inability to build a championship contender around him.

The most frequently reported trade partner is the LA Lakers, who have been reluctant to move their trade assets in hopes that a star will become available. While the Lakers may not have enough assets to match what other teams offer for Lillard, there has been speculation that the six-time All-Star could force his way to the organization.

In 2017, Lillard shared that the Lakers were among the teams that he would play for if he were to leave Portland. Four years later, he discussed joining the team with stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While it is unclear if the interest remains, the Trail Blazers could work to accommodate their long-time star in a potential deal.

Another potential suitor would be the New York Knicks, who have plenty of assets to offer in their search for a star. The Knicks could offer a massive package filled with draft picks and young talent. However, it remains to be seen how much they would be willing to move for a 32-year-old star who has battled injuries over the past two seasons. If they felt that Lillard would turn them into a legitimate championship contender, New York could put together the best package of any team that the star would be interested in joining.

Finally, the Miami Heat will likely look to get involved if Lillard is made available. The Heat, who are in win-now mode, could offer a package centered around Tyler Herro and draft picks. While Miami has been reluctant to move Herro, pairing Lillard with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo would instantly help them reclaim their position as championship contenders. The Heat, who have shown that they are willing to make aggressive moves in the past, will likely be among Lillard's top suitors if he hits the trade block.

Watch Damian Lillard's highlights below:

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How would the Portland Trail Blazers be affected by a Damian Lillard trade?

If the Portland Trail Blazers do end up moving Damian Lillard, it would signal the beginning of a rebuild. Players such as Jerami Grant, Jusuf Nurkic, and Josh Hart would likely be made available as the Trail Blazers look to acquire young talent and draft picks.

Portland would also give more playing time to their younger players, particularly Shaedon Sharpe, who they selected with the seventh overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft. The Trail Blazers would certainly prioritize losing in order to increase their odds of landing projected first overall pick Victor Wembanyama.

As things currently stand, Damian Lillard appears unlikely to request a trade when he is eligible to be moved on January 15. The Trail Blazers will likely look to add talent to the roster if he chooses to stay with the franchise.

Watch more of Damian Lillard's highlights below: