Portland Trail Blazers Lone TNT Game Is Against Miami Heat Post-Trade Deadline
The Portland Trail Blazers may not be the most exciting team, especially after inevitably losing Damian Lillard.
However, the recent release of the NBA schedule brings into focus one notable event: the Blazers' sole TNT game is scheduled against the Miami Heat on Feb. 27, set to unfold in Portland. This matchup takes place roughly two weeks after the trade deadline.
Lillard is heavily expected to be moved to the Heat prior to the Feb. 9 deadline, meaning his return to Portland would be prompt. The NBA is anticipating him being shipped to Miami, hoping to attract great crowds.
These teams are headed in opposite directions this season. The Heat are looking to contend while the Blazers begin a new era. Portland is among the bottom of the league in nationally televised games with six, while Miami has 24.
Lillard is beloved by the city of Portland, having spent his entire 11-season career there. He would likely be welcomed back with great applause and a heartfelt thank-you message from the organization. After being the backbone of the franchise for over a decade, it should come as no surprise if we see No. 0 hanging in the rafters one day.
The Heat and Blazers are also set to clash on March 29 in Miami.
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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at anthonypasciolla36@gmail.com or follow him on Tik Tok @anthonysports_