Kofi Inkoom
Many teams have joined the Damian Lillard sweepstakes, and the latest entrant to this competition is none other than the Los Angeles Clippers. Reports suggest that the LA Clippers have decided to join the pursuit of a trade for Lillard.
During a recent broadcast of the Danny and Dusty show on 1080 The Fan, host Danny Marang mentioned that the Los Angeles Clippers have expressed interest in participating in a potential Damian Lillard trade.
The LA Clippers have “thrown their hat in the ring” on a Damian Lillard trade, per @DannyMarang
(Via @1080TheFAN ) pic.twitter.com/AXAetJHWVb
— NBArepublic.com (@nba_republic) September 23, 2023
It’s worth noting that prior to these remarks, Marang listed several other teams, some of which may not have a direct interest in Lillard but could play a role in a multi-team trade involving him.
If the Clippers have indeed entered the fray, it suggests that they could serve as a conduit in such a complex trade scenario.
Considering that the Clippers lack the necessary assets for a straightforward Lillard acquisition, and with Russell Westbrook as their established starting point guard, they may not be the most likely destination for him.
Nonetheless, the Clippers do possess several expiring contracts that could be useful in facilitating a multi-team deal involving the Portland Trail Blazers and determining Lillard’s final destination.
Marang also mentioned the Philadelphia 76ers as another team interested, potentially creating an opportunity to address their James Harden situation.
The recent reports surrounding Lillard have been conflicting, but the idea of the Clippers getting involved as trade facilitators seems sensible.
As they currently exceed the maximum roster capacity, the Clippers will need to make at least one move before the season starts.
This could range from releasing a non-guaranteed player to orchestrating a trade that sends out multiple players in exchange for one.