Wednesday gave us one massive surprise trade: Damian Lillard is off to … the Milwaukee Bucks, NOT the Miami Heat as we spent all offseason wondering about.
And in that three-team deal, NBA champion-winning point guard Jrue Holiday was sent to the Portland Trail Blazers, who will now kick off a semi-rebuild centered around Deandre Ayton, Afernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe and Jerami Grant.
But that means, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojanrowski, that the Blazers may go right ahead and move Holiday elsewhere (see below).
Who else should deal for him? Let’s dive in with a few teams that would make the most sense:
The Blazers remain engaged elsewhere on deals and will are expected to immediately engage contending teams on trade talks to move on Jrue Holiday, sources tell ESPN. Portland is committed to its young group of talented guards. https://t.co/6IR7bcFVrr
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 27, 2023
1
Miami Heat
Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
It’s simple: The Heat missed out on Lillard, who wanted to play there. They have all the pieces to keep contending, but they could use a veteran guard like Holiday like any other contender could. Maybe dealing Kyle Lowry’s expiring contract would help.
But . . . this might not be over yet. With Jrue Holiday likely to be on the move, there remains a certain team that has spent the summer considering an upgrade at point guard. Of course, Joe Cronin would have to have that team's number to call. Heat-Blazers Rumor-a-thon 2.0?
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) September 27, 2023
2
Los Angeles Clippers
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Another contender that could use Holiday on both ends of the court to take pressure off Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
Wow. Also, Clippers should 1000% try to get Jrue from Portland. https://t.co/2auwrfZ4RR
— Robert Flom (@RichHomieFlom) September 27, 2023
3
Philadelphia 76ers
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Back to where it all started for Holiday. But also: The Sixers need the depth at guard if James Harden wants out, even with Tyrese Maxey continuing to ascend.
The 76ers will pursue trading for Jrue Holiday, per @KyleNeubeck pic.twitter.com/h7wbSesxsU
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 27, 2023
4
Toronto Raptors
(AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
A team that could use a point guard now that Fred VanVleet is gone, and a veteran presence at that. I’m intrigued!
