The Jazz will have internal discussions about getting involved in the Damian Lillard sweepstakes, according to The Athletic’s Tony Jones.
If they make a run for him, the Jazz could put together an impressive package of expiring contracts and future first-round picks for the Trail Blazers All-Star guard, who requested a trade this weekend. He’d instantly transform a team with a suddenly formidable frontcourt and quality depth into a contender.
The downside is Lillard’s age, defensive deficiencies and gargantuan contract. Jones explores the pros and cons of a potential Jazz trade for Lillard and ultimately concludes it would be worth it, as long as they set a strict limit on what they would give up.
We have more from the Northwest Division:
- The Timberwolves, after extending Naz Reid, made a number of under-the-radar moves in free agency to help them avoid future tax issues, Chris Hine of the Minneapolis Star Tribune notes. They divvied up their mid-level exception to acquire Shake Milton and Troy Brown, as well as re-signing Nickeil Alexander-Walker via his Bird rights. All of the contracts were two-year deals. Thus, their roster is almost all set for next season and the combined salaries are below the luxury tax threshold.
- After losing Bruce Brown in free agency to Indiana, the Nuggets have a huge hole to fill in their rotation. Jones explores how Denver will fill up those available minutes. Reggie Jackson, who is re-signing with the club on a two-year deal, is slated to be the backup point guard. Christian Braun will see his minutes expand, presumably as a combo guard. Denver could also add another piece via free agency to improve its depth.
- Due to trade restrictions, Cason Wallace will miss the Thunder’s three Summer League games in Salt Lake City, Joe Mussatto of The Oklahoman notes. Wallace was chosen with the No. 10 pick in a draft-night swap with the Mavericks, who also shipped forward Davis Bertans to OKC in exchange for the No. 12 pick. The trade can’t be finalized until at least Thursday, forcing Wallace to miss those games. However, he’ll be eligible to play in the Las Vegas Summer League.
Lillard deal
Nets and Jazz can easily offer better deals than Heat and Clippers
Lillard made his bed and should of laid in it…
It’s too late now… Wrong side of 32…
UTH had “internal discussions about getting involved” in what? As what? The team acquiring Lillard? Seems unlikely based on what they’ve done over the past year.
You wouldn’t think so, but they’ve clearly shifted gears into making the playoffs. Unless they’re one of top 10 worst teams then they won’t have their own draft pick this year. They barely were this past year. That means they’re going all in on winning this year. They could still trade everyone at the trade deadline, or next Summer.
As for Lillard, if the price is right, then it would be really fun to see him in a Jazz uniform. They could definitely make a tough playoff push.
The Jazz would just have to make sure they don’t give up their core players and they keep plenty of depth. That’s the mistake TWolves and Cavs made. Although, I’m sure they both knew that year one would be less productive until they had enough time to fill out their bench.
Should be interesting to see what happens to Lillard and who he ends up going to.
In other words, most Jazz fans can agree. Lillard? yes, but for the right price.