Should Portland trade Damian Lillard?

(Thread)

Before you read any further, know that in NO WAY do I want this to happen, though purely from a logistical standpoint, I think it's really hard to ignore the fact that the conversation has to be had.

In this thread however, I will talk about why we should trade Dame, from a statistical standpoint, and identify 3 trade packages that I think Neil Olshey would have to consider in the offseason.

This season, Neil Olshey and the Blazers front office created one of the best teams that Damian has ever played with, however, due to injury, it is possible that this team misses the playoffs and even if they make them, it is unlikely they go on a deep run.

Damian Lillard has been one of the best statistical players in the league over the last 3 years, while leading what has been an otherwise average Portland team. He also gets some of the most defensive attention in the league because of the threat he poses from deep.

Example:

Currently, Damian is averaging 28.1/6.7/4.7. He also has the most points in the league overall. These numbers have come in only 14 games, which actually make them more impressive as he has had a few single-digit games, and otherwise would be averaging well above 30 PPG.

However, Dame is 30 years old, and it looks as though Portland's window to contend is closing. Damian is in the middle of his prime, and his value is probably higher now than ever before. This is why Portland would consider trading him.

In this Western Conference, the Blazers are not a serious finals contender, and it would be hard for them to make enough moves to become that contender, therefore, trading a great player when his value is high makes sense so that they can rebuild into a contender in a few years.

So, with that being said, here are 3 packages that I think Portland should consider.

#1:

Blazers get: Ben Simmons, Matisse Thybulle, Shake Milton, and 3 FRP's
Sixers get: Damian Lillard, Robert Covington

This makes sense for both teams, as Portland gets great young pieces and picks.

This trade also makes the Sixers a MAJOR contender in the East.

#2:

Blazers get: Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, 5 FRP's and 3 swaps
Heat get: Damian Lillard and Rodney Hood

This trade would be better if Portland wanted to go into a full rebuild, as they would have many picks for the rest of the decade. Miami also adds a much needed star PG.

#3

Blazers get: Dejounte Murray, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 5 FRPs
Spurs get: Damian Lillard, Derrick Jones Jr.

This trade is a rebuilding trade as well, but it is likely less risky, with less picks and more players, and the Spurs get to try and contend with DeMar and LMA.

Of all of these trades, I like the Sixers trade the most.

But anyways, that was my thread on options Portland has to start a rebuild without Damian Lillard. Likes and RT's are appreciated, I hope y'all did enjoy.

Thanks