REPORT: The Lakers, Warriors and Celtics are among the teams that have interest in doing a deal with Damian Lillard
Lillard Watch Heats Up Again
Trade buzz surrounding All-Star point guard Damian Lillard has reignited, with multiple league sources reporting that the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Boston Celtics are among the high-profile teams exploring potential deals. While no trade is imminent, interest in Lillard appears to be picking up steam as teams look to make bold moves ahead of the new NBA season.
The Lakers: In Search of a Third Star
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly intrigued by the idea of pairing Lillard with LeBron James and Anthony Davis in what would instantly form one of the league’s most dangerous offensive trios. While salary-matching and limited assets could complicate negotiations, the Lakers are believed to be exploring creative ways to make a competitive offer, possibly involving multiple teams.
The Warriors: A Bold Win-Now Push?
The Golden State Warriors are another team showing interest, which would mark a major shift in their long-standing commitment to their current core. With Stephen Curry entering the later stages of his prime, Golden State may be willing to gamble on adding Lillard—even at the cost of parting with younger talent or future picks. A Curry-Lillard backcourt would be undersized but offensively explosive.
The Celtics: Building on an Eastern Conference Title
Fresh off another deep playoff run, the Boston Celtics could view Lillard as the final piece in a championship puzzle. With Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown already locked in, Boston has the assets and flexibility to make a strong offer without gutting its core. A Lillard-Tatum pairing would give the Celtics arguably the best 1–2 punch in the East.
Portland’s Stance: Waiting for the Right Deal
The Portland Trail Blazers remain non-committal on a Lillard trade, publicly emphasizing their commitment to a long-term rebuild centered on young stars like Scoot Henderson. However, they are expected to listen to offers that include draft capital and promising young players—especially if Lillard reiterates his preference to compete for a title elsewhere.
What’s Next: Patience or Fireworks?
With training camp approaching and trade activity typically heating up in late summer, all eyes are on Portland’s front office and Lillard’s camp. Whether a blockbuster move happens in the coming weeks or drags into the season remains to be seen, but what’s clear is this: multiple contenders are circling, and Damian Lillard’s future is once again one of the hottest topics in the NBA.
