- Damian Lillard previous played the 11 seasons for the Portland Trail Blazers
- At one point rumored to be going to the Miami Heat and Toronto Raptors
- Phoenix Suns are the third team involved
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In a landscape-altering deal, the Milwaukee Bucks have acquired seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers as part of a significant three-team trade also involving the Phoenix Suns. This strategic acquisition pairs Lillard with reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, positioning the Bucks as the new title favorites.
Damian Lillard Goes To The Bucks In Three-way Trade
The NBA world is abuzz with the Milwaukee Bucks’ acquisition of the prolific Damian Lillard, a player with a distinguished 11-season run with the Portland Trail Blazers, wherein he marked his presence by making seven All-Star and All-NBA teams and leading the franchise to eight playoff appearances. Lillard, known for his scoring prowess and clutch performances, ranks first in Portland’s history in points and 3-pointers and second in assists.
This trade comes after Lillard’s formal request to be traded in early July, a decision that was approached with patience by the Blazers, leading to a comprehensive negotiation and ultimate agreement involving the Bucks and the Suns. Lillard’s move to Milwaukee is seen as a powerful enhancement to the team’s championship aspirations, coupling him with the dynamic Giannis Antetokounmpo and forming a potentially dominant duo in the league.
As a part of the deal, the Trail Blazers receive a substantial package including Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, an unprotected 2029 first-round draft pick from Milwaukee, and unprotected Milwaukee swap rights in 2028 and 2030. The Suns, the third team in this deal, secure Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson.
The deal’s announcement has shifted the championship odds, propelling the Bucks to the top of the list as the favorites to clinch the NBA title. The Bucks, previously the fourth-favorite, are now ahead of the defending champion Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, and the Suns, with their odds settling around 4-1 at various U.S. sportsbooks.
Portland, still engaged in multiple deal discussions, is expected to initiate further trade talks aimed at moving on Holiday, as per sources close to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Lillard, who averaged a career-high 32.2 points and 7.3 assists last season, expressed his excitement about the next chapter, stating he is looking forward to contributing to the Bucks’ lofty goals.
Bucks president Peter Feigin and general manager Jon Horst communicated their thrill and optimism about welcoming Damian Lillard, emphasizing that when an opportunity to integrate such premier NBA talent arises, seizing it is imperative. They believe that the infusion of Lillard’s outstanding capabilities will harmonize effectively with the already potent and versatile roster of the Bucks, elevating their pursuit of championship glory.
Despite the significant roster changes, the Trail Blazers retained their draft picks, most recently selecting guard Scoot Henderson with the No. 2 overall pick. The trade developments have not only stirred excitement among fans and experts but have also shaped a fresh narrative for the upcoming NBA season, spotlighting the Bucks’ revamped lineup and heightened championship prospects.
The integration of Lillard into the Bucks’ framework accentuates their competitive edge, and with the dynamics between him and Antetokounmpo, the league anticipates witnessing a high-octane synergy that could redefine team success in the forthcoming season. The looming season promises enthralling action, with the Bucks’ enhanced arsenal catalyzing a renewed race for the coveted championship title.
Betting Implications
Just a couple of days ago, we were talking about Lillard going to the Raptors, then out of nowhere comes the Bucks. Milwaukee was feeling the pressure to make a splash move after Antetokounmpo hinted that he was uncertain about his future with the franchise. Now this makes him and Lillard one of the best duos in the league. Vegas has taken notice and all of the top sites have them favored to win the NBA Championship, including BetMGM at +400. The Bucks were the top seed in the Eastern Conference last year, and they’ll contend for it again.
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