Saturday, October 19, 2024

Damian Lillard is a potential trade target for Eastern rivals Milwaukee Bucks

Even though he currently plays for the Milwaukee Bucks, All-Star point guard Damian Lillard is still a target for other teams in the NBA. However, if everything goes wrong, expect these franchises to come all in on the former Portland Trail Blazers star.

Last year’s Lillard trade to the Bucks did sparked a heated discussion both among fans and analysts. Lillard, who initially expressed interest in playing for the Miami Heat, found himself in Milwaukee after a surprising move by the Trail Blazers just before the start of the season. This unexpected change yielded mixed results as Lillard and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo struggled to find a rhythm.

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September 30, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) during Media Day at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Source: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Despite Lillard’s impressive scoring ability, his transition to the Bucks has not been sleek. Paired with Antetokounmpo, Lillard’s scoring dropped significantly, highlighting the challenge of integrating two star players who are good with the ball in their hands.

In games in which Antetokounmpo was absent due to injury, Lillard returned to form, averaging 30 points per game. However, his overall production dropped when they shared the court, raising questions about their compatibility.

Ultimately, the Bucks’ playoff run was hampered by Antetokounmpo’s calf injury, which sidelined him in key games. This misfortune exposed the team’s weaknesses, especially in terms of teamwork and cohesion. As other Eastern Conference teams like the Boston Celtics strengthen their rosters, the Bucks are under pressure to improve.

NBA analysis indicates Damian Lillard as a potential trade target for eastern rivals Milwaukee Bucks

Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard
April 5, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) makes a basket against the Toronto Raptors in the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory credit: Michael McLoone – USA TODAY Sports

Now, as he enters his second season in Milwaukee, there is still a chance the Heat acquire Lillard in a trade. This can be seen in the NBA analysis by Grant Hughes for Bleacher Report.

If you think it’s certain that Lillard’s second year with the Milwaukee Bucks will be better than his first, you have an admirable level of confidence. Sure, Dame should improve his skills after a challenging transition season on and off the court, but Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez may be past their sell-by date, and it’s strenuous to be sure that Doc Rivers is the right coach for the Bucks – or any other team.

If the opportunity arises, Miami could renew their pursuit of Lillard, which began last offseason.

Looking ahead, discussions about a potential trade that would send Lillard to Miami have resurfaced, especially if the Bucks fail to achieve their championship goals. A trade involving Tyler Herro could be tempting for Milwaukee, offering younger talent in exchange for Lillard.

Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard
April 5, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) makes a basket against Toronto Raptors forward Kelly Olynyk (41) in the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory credit: Michael McLoone – USA TODAY Sports

However, the Bucks must weigh the benefits of trading Lillard against their title aspirations alongside Giannis. As the season progresses, Lillard’s situation will remain in the spotlight for both the Bucks and Heat.

Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard
April 7, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) warms up during shootaround before the game against the New York Knicks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory credit: Michael McLoone – USA TODAY Sports

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