Kofi Inkoom
Following a rigorous three-month period of high-stakes trade negotiations involving various contenders vying for Damian Lillard’s coveted signature, the Milwaukee Bucks emerged victorious in the race for Dame’s services.
With Lillard now off the market, reports have surfaced indicating that other teams have turned their attention to Jrue Holiday, a player renowned for his exceptional two-way skills.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, it is expected that Jrue Holiday will become the center of increased interest within the trade market after being traded to the Blazers.
“Portland is going to be active over the next several days…to find a new landing spot, rerouting Jrue Holiday to another team… Teams like Miami, Toronto, Boston…”
NBA Insider @ShamsCharania on Jrue Holiday’s future. pic.twitter.com/2dhy3193B0
— The Rally (@TheRally) September 27, 2023
In essence, the Portland Trail Blazers have not decided to pause their trade endeavors; instead, they are actively immersed in discussions with competitive teams, with their primary objective being the relocation of Jrue Holiday.
This decision underscores Portland’s dedication to nurturing their burgeoning crop of talented guards.
Jrue Holiday, formerly a star for the Bucks, has transformed into a highly sought-after asset following the aforementioned trade.
“You look at teams that were interested in Lillard: Miami, Toronto, Boston, those are among the teams I’d expect to be suitors for Jrue Holiday,” Shams said.
Charania also mentioned that it is not anticipated for Jrue Holiday, who averaged 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game last season, to don the Trail Blazers’ jersey.
“Portland is going to be active over the next several days…to find a new landing spot, rerouting Jrue Holiday to another team,” he added.
It is worth noting that Holiday possesses a player option worth $37.3 million for the 2024-25 season.
Undoubtedly, Jrue Holiday is an enticing player owing to his consistent ability to make significant contributions on both ends of the court.
WHAT A PLAY BY JRUE HOLIDAY 😱😱😱 pic.twitter.com/7mrtEByuju
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 18, 2021
He possesses the capacity to shine in specific matchups and effectively thwart the opposing team’s top perimeter player during crucial playoff scenarios.
For the Boston Celtics, the inclusion of Jrue Holiday as a replacement for Marcus Smart would fortify their defensive prowess, furnish them with a bona fide floor general, and partially compensate for the tenacity lost during the offseason with the departures of Smart and Grant Williams.
As for Toronto, Jrue would seamlessly integrate into the teams’ roster, assuming the roles of a leader and playmaker, adept at crafting scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates. Moreover, his presence would elevate the Raptors’ defensive capabilities, given his status as a five-time NBA All-Defensive Team honoree.
The Miami Heat, too, stand to benefit from Jrue Holiday’s addition to their roster, especially after missing out on the acquisition of All-Star point guard Damian Lillard. Holiday’s presence would serve to bolster their lineup in preparation for the upcoming season.