Damian Lillard Joins Forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo as Blazers, Bucks, and Suns Execute Blockbuster Trade
In a stunning three-team trade deal that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Portland Trail Blazers have decided to part ways with their beloved star guard, Damian Lillard. The trade sees Lillard don the Milwaukee Bucks’ jersey to join forces with reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. This blockbuster trade also involves the Phoenix Suns and features several prominent players and future draft assets.
Portland’s end of the deal sees them acquiring Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, and a plethora of future draft assets from Milwaukee, including the Bucks’ 2029 unprotected first-round draft pick and unprotected swap rights in 2028 and 2030.
The Suns, on the other hand, welcome Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson to their roster as part of this monumental trade.
This significant move comes on the heels of Damian Lillard’s formal trade request back in July, as the Blazers chose to embark on a patient approach to negotiations.
Lillard’s departure marks the end of an era in Portland, where he spent a remarkable 11 seasons, amassing numerous accolades, including seven All-Star and All-NBA selections. He led the franchise to the playoffs eight times and, notably, a Western Conference finals appearance during the 2018-19 season. In the team’s history, Lillard stands as the all-time leader in both points and three-pointers and ranks second in assists.
Last season, at the age of 33, Damian Lillard had a career year, averaging an astonishing 32.2 points and 7.3 assists per game. Despite his impressive performance, the Blazers failed to secure a playoff spot for the second consecutive season, a rare occurrence in Lillard’s illustrious career. The team opted to keep their draft pick and selected promising guard Scoot Henderson with the No. 2 overall pick. Lillard’s trade request swiftly followed this decision.
With the trade now finalized, the Blazers are actively engaged in other trade discussions, with sources indicating their intent to seek potential deals involving Jrue Holiday. Portland remains committed to nurturing their talented group of young guards.
As for the Milwaukee Bucks, their acquisition of Damian Lillard catapults them to the forefront of NBA championship contenders. Oddsmakers now favor the Bucks, with odds around 4-1 at U.S. sportsbooks. Milwaukee had previously been listed as the fourth-favorite, trailing behind the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, the Boston Celtics, and the Suns. However, Lillard’s arrival has reshaped the landscape of the title race, making the Bucks the team to beat.
