Raptors Emerge as Front-Runners for Damian Lillard – Shiv Telegram Media
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Title: Toronto Raptors Emerge as Front-Runners to Trade for Damian Lillard
In the latest NBA trade rumors, the Toronto Raptors have emerged as the front-runners to acquire Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard, according to high-ranking NBA team executives. While discussions have taken place between the Raptors and the Blazers, no trade agreement is currently imminent as of Monday morning.
Lillard, who requested a trade on July 1, initially expressed interest in joining the Miami Heat. However, substantial trade talks between the Heat and the Blazers have yet to materialize. The Heat reportedly offered a trade package that included talented guard Tyler Herro and two future first-round draft picks.
Now, it seems the Toronto Raptors have entered the trade conversation with an attractive package of their own. The potential deal could include players such as Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes, O.G. Anunoby, and rookie Gradey Dick. This trade package could potentially appeal to the Blazers as they look to rebuild their roster around young talent.
Two NBA executives have stated their belief that Lillard will be traded before the upcoming media day on October 2, with team practices starting the next day. Alongside the Raptors, other teams that have expressed interest in Lillard include the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Chicago Bulls.
Lillard is reportedly drawn to the Miami Heat due to their title potential and the opportunity to team up with stars like Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. However, Raptors president Masai Ujiri has a proven track record of successfully trading for star players who may be hesitant to play in Toronto, as he did with Kawhi Leonard.
It is worth noting that Lillard still has three years remaining on his contract, with a salary of $45 million for the upcoming season. The seven-time All-Star has spent his entire career in Portland, and a potential move to a new city would mark a significant change for the talented point guard.
As trade talks intensify and team executives evaluate their options, the basketball world eagerly awaits the outcome of this high-stakes negotiation. The Raptors are positioning themselves as serious contenders for Damian Lillard, yet only time will tell where the superstar guard will ultimately land.
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