Free agency came and went within the first 72 hours like usual, but there are still some major dominos yet to fall. Notably, Damian Lillard requesting a trade to Miami, which could limit Portland’s return.
Of course, the Blazers don’t have to honor his demand one year after extending for two years. Lillard’s four seasons remaining on his contract could sway other interested teams from topping the Heat’s best possible offer. The Nets, Celtics, Spurs, and Jazz are just some teams that could easily offer more draft equity and prospects, which the Blazers reportedly are prioritizing.
If the Heat do end up acquiring Lillard, it would almost certainly require sending out Tyler Herro. However, a third team will likely be required to acquire him since the Blazers reportedly aren’t interested in him. One of the more popular frameworks being floated around is a three-team trade with the Brooklyn Nets, who reportedly are interested in Herro.
Below is an explainer of what is required from the Heat and Nets to land their targets, and how existing trades they agreed to that aren’t official yet could help.