Kofi Inkoom
The Toronto Raptors have made it clear that they aspire to secure Damian Lillard, even in the face of competition from other organizations, including Dame’s favored choice, the Miami Heat.
This pursuit by the Raptors is marked by a profound and genuine interest in adding the seven-time NBA All-Star to their roster.
While the Raptors are currently viewed as dark horses in the race for Damian Lillard, recent reports from Marc Stein suggest that this perception might be subject to change.
Stein’s reports indicate that the Toronto Raptors have effectively persuaded multiple teams within the league of the authenticity of their desire to engage in a trade for Lillard.
Nevertheless, a degree of uncertainty lingers, primarily concerning Toronto’s unwavering commitment to their pursuit of Lillard, especially given whispers that the All-Star guard may not be entirely receptive to the prospect of joining the Raptors.
“The Toronto Raptors have convinced numerous teams around the league that their interest in trading for Lillard is genuine. However, the uncertainty at this point stems more from gauging Toronto’s true willingness to push all the way forward with its Lillard pursuit when it’s believed that the All-Star guard, behind the scenes, remains so resistant to the idea of becoming a Raptor.” Marc stated
Stein draws parallels between the Lillard situation and the Raptors’ pursuit of Kawhi Leonard half a decade ago.
Unlike Leonard, who had just one year left on his contract at the time, Lillard is committed for the next four years with a hefty $220 million owed to him.
Furthermore, Toronto lacks the foundation to chase a championship with a single significant move, unlike when they acquired Leonard.
Stein believes the Trail Blazers would prefer to resolve the ongoing Lillard drama before the team’s upcoming media day next Monday.
But then, talks with the Heat and other teams across the league are temporarily on hold as they contemplate preserving their assets for potential opportunities involving stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo or other available talents.
Portland is reluctant to trade Lillard for anything less than his market value, but the alternative is dealing with the distractions that will arise if he remains on the roster through training camp and beyond.
Moreover, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports’ recent remarks suggest that the Raptors are inclined to exclude key assets like Pascal Siakam or Scottie Barnes from any potential trade involving Lillard.
However, as the allure of Lillard’s talents continues to grow, Masai Ujiri may need to contemplate taking calculated risks to secure Lillard’s signature.
Also, while Lillard’s inclination towards joining the Miami Heat remains unchanged, the imminent week-long deadline for the Portland Trail Blazers to trade him, coupled with the sluggish pace of negotiations with the Miami Heat, could potentially result in Damian Lillard becoming a member of the Toronto Raptors ahead of the upcoming season.