Given that Damian Lillard has one foot out the door, the Portland Trail Blazers are currently in a difficult situation. Over the past few seasons, the team has had difficulties. The Western Conference Finals matchup with the Golden State Warriors in 2019 included their most recent prolonged playoff run. And 2021 marked their most recent playoff appearance. They have only gotten worse since then.
On May 15, 2023, the lottery for the NBA Draft was held. The San Antonio Spurs were awarded the top overall choice after winning the lottery. Portland received the third pick, while Charlotte had the second choice. Scoot Henderson is expected to go third overall in this year’s draft, and it’s possible that the Blazers may select him.
REPORT: The Blazers intend to trade their No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft to try and build a championship team around Damian Lillard.
(via @ChrisBHaynes) pic.twitter.com/gwEdz5MUl0
Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 17, 2023
The Blazers are prepared to part with their draft pick, according to a recent update from NBA reporter Chris Haynes. They want to develop their All-Star into a club that is capable of winning a championship. Other role players like Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe, and Matisse Thybulle could be included as transferable assets if they trade their pick.
Damian Lillard is uninterested to play with young players
After concluding the regular season with 33 wins and 49 defeats and earning the 13th seed in the West, Portland’s season came to an abrupt end. Since 2021, they have missed two consecutive postseason appearances despite being the sixth seed. Damian Lillard battled injuries while also dealing with serious wrist, calf, and abdominal problems.
Moving up to #3 is a big win for our organization
General Manager Joe Cronin speaks to media following the 2023 #NBADraftLottery pic.twitter.com/kUd5uUvbnn
Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) May 17, 2023
But the All-Star made it clear that if the Blazers decide to go with young and inexperienced guys, he wants nothing to do with them. I’m just not interested in it, he declared. It’s no secret, that. I want the opportunity to try it. That is not my way if the destination is (draft youth).The Blazers had better move quickly now that Lillard has put his foot down. For a very long time, he has been competing for a crown, but things haven’t gone his way.
Damian Lillard averaged 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, all career highs. Lillard won’t remain with the Blazers if they decide to keep the young draft players they selected.
Scoot Henderson might be one of these young draft talents if they chose him with their third choice. There are already rumors floating around that Lillard might sign with the Brooklyn Nets or the Philadelphia 76ers. Next season, he will turn 33, and as he gets older, his chances of winning a championship would decline.
