There were expectations about the behaviour of the Portland Trail Blazers on Draft night due to rumours about a trade that would please Damian Lillard.
According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the point guard may have been dissatisfied with the decision. However, there was speculation about the direction involving third pick by some league star.
Portland selected Scoot Henderson on Thursday night, with the third overall pick in the 2023 Draft.
The journalist speculated on likely unhappiness from Lillard, who expected a deal minutes after the news
“I was told that several teams, including the New Orleans Pelicans, reached out. But Portland has shown no interest in trading Henderson.” Charania said.
“So Lillard’s decision on whether or not to ask for a trade will stretch from now on, in early free agency and throughout free agency,” Charania added.
Butz Lillard can ask for a Blazers trade if the franchise does not move in the negotiation period. That’s because he doesn’t want to be part of a squad that will undergo reformulation in 2023/24.
He wants a squad to fight for bigger things next season. After all, Oregon’s team didn’t even make the playoffs last season.
In this scenario, therefore, the ace would give time for the management to move in free agency. On the other hand, it could be an ultimatum for some heavyweight name to play alongside you.
However, Bleacherreport’s Chris Haynes denied Charania’s opinion. According to Haynes, there have been no deals between the star and the franchise.
“Damian Lillard has not had any recent conversations with the Portland Trail Blazers. Whether it’s involving the Draft, free agency or your future,” Haynes said.
Henderson, for his part, spoke about the possibility of working with a star like Lillard.
“I hope to play with Dame for sure. He’s a special talent. One of my favourites to watch. You can see how he moves off the court too. Yes, it would be cool to play with him.” Henderson said.
