Boston Celtics Emerge as Favorites to Acquire Damian Lillard

The Boston Celtics could pursue Damian Lillard.

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

Per BetOnline, excluding the Miami Heat, the Boston Celtics are frontrunners to be Damian Lillard’s next team. For the 2022-2023 season, Lillard averaged 32.2 points and 7.3 assists over 58 games.

While Miami has been Lillard’s most probable trade destination for weeks, their momentum is diminishing. According to Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes, the Portland Trail Blazers have stopped trade discussions with the Heat.

“Portland is refusing to talk to Miami,” said Haynes. “Miami understands that they don’t have the assets. But they want to know, ‘Hey Portland, we’ll involve a third or fourth team but communicate with us and let us know what you are looking for.’ It hasn’t gotten to that stage.”

A possible reason why the Celtics are favored to acquire Lillard may stem from concerns surrounding Malcolm Brogdon. The reigning Sixth Man of the Year is reportedly upset with the way that Boston’s management is handling his elbow injury.

Next week, which includes media day and training camp, will likely determine the validity of ongoing trade rumors. 

Further Reading

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Details of Why Malcolm Brogdon's Upset with Celtics Revealed

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Dwyane Wade Discusses Jayson Tatum's Next Step, Him and Jaylen Brown's Challenge, Heat Culture, Pat Riley, Damian Lillard, and Life After Basketball

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