Insider Details Why Raptors Believe They’re Contenders for Damian Lillard Trade

Toronto has emerged as a potential landing spot for Damian Lillard if he’s traded from Portland.

The Raptors have reportedly emerged as potential favorites in the Damian Lillard trade sweepstakes, and according to Michael Grange of Sportsnet, the franchise believes they could get a deal done.

Speaking on Sirius XM NBA Radio, Grange suggested that Toronto think it has the assets it would take to swing a deal for the Trail Blazers’ star, and that “there’s a framework there.” 

“Toronto, A, wants the player, this is something they want to do, and B, thinks that they have the collection of assets that Portland is looking for. As you guys well know that doesn’t mean a deal gets done, but I believe that’s why the Raptors think they’re in the game, at least,” said Grange.

"Toronto (A.) wants [Damian Lillard]... and (B.) thinks that they have the collection of assets that [the Trail Blazers] are looking for... That's why I think the Raptors believe they're in the game at least."

- @michaelgrange

(Via @SiriusXMNBA, @ClutchPoints ) pic.twitter.com/anCI2QpZLI

— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BASKETBALLonX) September 26, 2023

“The way it’s been explained to me is they’re not halfway to a deal, they’re probably not even 40% to deal, but there is a framework there,” he said. 

While the Heat had predominantly been considered the favorites to land Lillard, who had expressed his desire to be traded to Miami, the Raptors have been linked with the seven-time All-Star over the past few days. 

Grange indicates the team thinks it has the necessary assets to contend in the trade market for Lillard, though, according to NBC’s Kurt Helin, young forward Scottie Barnes is not available in trade talks for Toronto. 

Per a report from Marc Spears, there is a growing expectation around the league that Portland could trade Lillard by the NBA’s Media Day, which is slated for Monday, Oct. 2.