[Saba Sports News] Damian Lillard’s strong desire to join the Miami Heat is no secret, but as the season approaches, it seems increasingly unlikely that his wish will come true. The Portland Trail Blazers are reportedly avoiding any discussions with the Heat. According to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, the Blazers’ front office is outright “rejecting communication with Miami.” Haynes made this revelation during a recent appearance on the “D-Lo & KC” radio show.
Haynes stated, “Portland is declining to engage in discussions with Miami. Miami acknowledges their lack of suitable assets but is willing to explore involving a third or fourth team. They want to know what Portland is seeking, but we haven’t reached that stage yet.”
The idea of involving a third team to facilitate a trade sending Lillard to the Heat is not a new one. Tyler Herro is considered the Heat’s most valuable trade asset, but the Blazers have shown no interest in him. The plan was to potentially include him in a trade with a third team to meet the Heat’s preferences.
What is surprising is the Blazers’ continued reluctance to cooperate with the Heat, especially with the season just a month away. The Blazers already have a promising young player in Scoot Henderson, who is seen as Lillard’s potential successor. There could be an uncomfortable overlap between the two players, given Lillard’s desire to play elsewhere.
Lillard’s recent activity on social media indicates that his desire to join the Heat remains strong. However, other teams have emerged as potential suitors for the star player in recent times.