In a stunning NBA trade, the Portland Trail Blazers have sent star guard Damian Lillard to join forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo on the Milwaukee Bucks.
This three-team trade also involves the Phoenix Suns, and the deal was officially announced by the teams on Wednesday.
Under the terms of the trade, Portland receives Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, Milwaukee’s 2029 unprotected first-round draft pick, and unprotected Milwaukee swap rights in 2028 and 2030, according to the teams’ statement.
The Phoenix Suns, in return, acquired Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson as part of the trade package.
Following this trade, the Blazers are reportedly planning to engage with contending teams for further trade talks involving Jrue Holiday, as reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
This significant move comes after Damian Lillard formally requested a trade in early July, as the Blazers adopted a patient approach to negotiations.
After 11 seasons with Portland, Lillard, a seven-time All-Star and All-NBA team member, is now set to embark on a new chapter in Milwaukee. During his tenure with the Blazers, Lillard led the team to the playoffs eight times, including an appearance in the Western Conference finals in the 2018-19 season. He leaves the franchise as its all-time leader in both points and 3-pointers and second in assists.
Despite his remarkable career year last season, where Lillard averaged 32.2 points and 7.3 assists, Portland failed to make the playoffs for two consecutive seasons, prompting Lillard’s trade request.
Lillard’s departure to the Bucks marks a significant change, as his 32.2 points per game is the most ever by a player changing teams in the following season, according to ESPN Stats & Information research.
The Milwaukee Bucks, who were already considered a strong team, have now emerged as the consensus favourites to win the NBA title following this blockbuster trade. Their odds are currently around 4-1 at U.S. sportsbooks, surpassing the previous favourites, the Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, and the Suns.
Bucks President Peter Feigin and General Manager Jon Horst expressed their excitement about adding Damian Lillard to their roster, emphasizing his character, competitiveness, talent, and experience as valuable assets for their team’s aspirations.
Blazers General Manager Joe Cronin acknowledged Damian Lillard’s contributions to the franchise, praising his loyalty to the Portland community and his lasting impact on the team and the Pacific Northwest region.
Source: ESPN Sports
