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NBA Trade Rumors: Blazers-Heat Lillard talks ‘could pick up’ before training camp

By Andrew Hanlon

Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Things have remained quiet on the Damian Lillard trade front as discussions between the Miami Heat and Portland Trail Blazers stalled weeks ago (if they ever truly started in the first place).

But a recent report states that talks could gain steam soon as all parties involved would prefer to have the situation resolved and Lillard in South Beach by the start of training camp.

Blazers, Heat to re-engage on Damian Lillard trade talks soon?

Lillard asked for a trade on July 1. As September approaches, nothing of substance seems to have developed between Portland and Miami.

Trail Blazers General Manager Joe Cronin is already on record saying he’s going to be patient and wait for the best possible offer – reportedly in the form of at least four first-round picks and two quality young players.

The Heat, meanwhile, has been ready to offer a package of three to four first-rounders and at least one young player, but anything resembling a compromise has yet to near fruition.

An unspoken deadline may be looming in the near future, however, according to Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald (h/t Bleacher Report):

"The expectation from those around this situation is that trade talks could pick up as the start of camp inches closer. And if the Heat is the only team extending a serious offer for Lillard, then the Trail Blazers may need to at least engage the Heat.Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald on Damian Lillard trade talks"

It would be best for Lillard and best for Portland to resolve the situation sooner rather than later. The Blazers are ready to start a youth movement around Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe – going into the season with Lillard still around would stunt some of that group’s growth, not to mention cause a massive distraction and media circus.

Still, accepting a poor return just to end the saga could end up being a huge mistake for the franchise long term.

Next. Grade the Trade: Damian Lillard joins Zion Williamson in NOLA. dark

We’re still in wait-and-see mode, but at least there could be a dim light shining at the end of this long, dark tunnel.