Damian Lillard Wants to Stay in Portland; but Speculation Continues on Possible Trade to Heat or Nets

Damian Lillard expects to remain with the Portland Trail Blazers next season but says the Miami Heat and Brooklyn Nets would be attractive destinations in a hypothetical trade.
The Trail Blazers are looking to trade their first round draft pick and young players like Anfernee Simons to acquire veteran talent and compete for a championship.
Lillard was most frustrated after Portland's first-round exit in 2021 but is committed to trying to win a title with the Trail Blazers.
CJ McCollum thinks there's a real chance Lillard could be traded if Portland can't build a contender around him.
The No. 3 pick in the draft and Lillard's future in Portland could be connected based on whether the team can trade for proven players or opts to rebuild.