Damian Lillard Traded To The Milwaukee Bucks: Details

After months of rumors and uncertainty, the Damian Lillard saga is finally at an end, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN has reported that Lillard is headed to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of a three-team trade that also includes the Phoenix Suns. The Bucks get Lillard while the Suns get Jusuf Nurkić, Nassir Little, Keon Johnson, and Grayson Allen. Meanwhile, the Blazers get Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, Jrue Holiday, a first-round pick in 2029 and the right to swap first-rounders in 2028 and 2030. All three picks come from the Bucks.

The trade, of course, completely leaves out Miami. The Heat had been the only team Lillard had originally been interested in joining. However, Miami was never able to offer a package that satisfied the Blazers. Instead, Giannis gets a new superstar teammate while the Blazers get a rookie starter in Scoot Henderson and a star center in Ayton. Furthermore, Woj also reported that the Blazers are looking to immediately move Holiday as they are “committed to its young group of talented guards”.

Read More: Golden State Warriors “Close” To Adding Bay Area WNBA Team

Giannis Wins The Damian Lillard Trade

If there’s a winner in this trade, it’s Giannis. Milwaukee’s star has been vocal in recent weeks about the need for the franchise to surround him with talent. Now he has a co-star who was top five in points per game last season and top ten in assists per game. Meanwhile, the Blazers could continue to recoup assets to build themselves into a contender. As mentioned, they are already looking to flip Jrue Holiday and build around their young core.

Furthermore, the Bucks immediately solidify their championship aspirations. With a healthy Giannis, Khris Middleton, and Lillard, they are far and away the best team in the East. Sadly, this means that barring a historic collapse or miracle season, the window has likely closed for the Miami Heat. Lillard was their missing puzzle piece. Now not only do they have to play without him, they will have to regularly play against him.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Toronto Raptors Currently Favorites to Land Damian Lillard

damian lillard looks up iso

A new frontrunner has emerged as the NBA awaits a trade for Portland Trailblazers star Damian Lillard. According to ESPN, high-ranking NBA executives, the Toronto Raptors are currently the favorites to land the star.

As of Monday morning (Sept. 25), there was no deal in place for the Trailblazers and Raptors, but revealing Lillard’s preferred destination for the Miami HEAT are not engaged in any conversations. The HEAT previously offered Tyler Herro and two first-round picks as consolation for Lillard.

The Raptors are believed to be ready to offer Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes, O.G. Anunoby, and their recent draftee Gradey Dick.

Additional teams attempting to make offers include the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Chicago Bulls.

Lillard is expected to be moved by Oct. 2, which is the start of training camp for many teams.

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Damian Lillard Trade Reportedly Imminent, Suns Rumored To Be Involved

There are new rumors in the Damian Lillard saga. While the destination, Miami, remains the same, several sources are now claiming that Dame will be heading to South Beach thanks to the Phoenix Suns. Suns insider Gerald Bourget has reported that the Phoenix has become an eleventh-hour dark horse solution to the long-stalled Lillard trade. Per Bourget, the Suns have received multiple calls about star center Deandre Ayton. The possible trade being offered would see the Blazers get Ayton and draft picks, the Heat get Lillard, and the Suns getting Tyler Herro.

Furthermore, sources in Portland have confirmed that Ayton’s name has come up numerous times over the past few weeks. Additionally, Portland was eyeing Ayton as a potential addition last summer. The current starting center in Portland is veteran Jusuf Nurkić. Elsewhere, long-time Arizona radio host John Gambadoro said he’s confident that the Lillard trade is coming in the “next 24 hours”.

Read More: Damian Lillard has “pause” moment on It Is What It Is

Is The Lillard Trade Finally Happening?

The rumors have gotten the Heat fanbase very excited. South Beach has been waiting all summer for the Blazers to finally accept a deal for Lillard. Furthermore, the Lillard trade is one of two trade situations that is reportedly holding up league transactions. The other is the ongoing James Harden situation in Philadelphia. With the league essentially in a “holding pattern”, the calls for the Blazers to be more reasonable in their trade demands have only increased. Furthermore, training camps are soon to begin in the NBA, adding more pressure to finalize deals.

However, nothing is certain yet. There have been a lot of stories concerning the Lillard trade over the past few months and none have come to fruition. With no trade clause and two years left on his contract, Lillard has been at the mercy of his current team. Despite this, perhaps the Suns are about to become the heroes of South Beach. This remains a developing story and we’ll have any updates as they emerge.

Read More: Damian Lillard crashes Portland wedding, performs for the bride and groom

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Damian Lillard Walks Right Into “Pause” Moment With Cam’ron & Ma$e

Damian Lillard is someone who is going through a lot right now. Overall, he is looking to get out of Portland and play for the Miami Heat. However, the Trail Blazers are not making that easy for him. Instead, they are making sure that the price is just too high for him. They do not want to let him go for nothing, which is understandable. That said, the Heat are also not willing to give up their entire roster just to get one player who may or may not bring them a title.

With all of this drama surrounding Lillard, Dame decided to take his talents to It Is What It Is with Cam’ron and Ma$e. Cam and Ma$e are two artists who love their sports. Consequently, Lillard is someone they can relate to given the fact that Dame also makes music. If you watched their episode today, you would have noticed immediately just how good their chemistry is. In fact, there was one moment in the episode that encapsulated everything that works about It Is What It Is.

Read More: Damian Lillard Recreates Iconic “Paid In Full” Scene With Cam’ron

Damian Lillard x “It Is What it Is”

During one moment in the show, Lillard said the phrase “running pole to pole.” Immediately, Cam’ron and Ma$e hit Lillard with their signature “pause.” This has become frequent on the show to the point where you almost cannot say anything without it becoming an issue. However, Lillard thought it was incredibly funny. He knows these two all too well and he noted that it was only a matter of time before he said something that would get taken the wrong way.

Throughout the interview, Lillard touched on a plethora of other topics. For instance, he noted how he has no interest in going to a team like Golden State. At the end of the day, he just wants to get a title. Let us know what you thought of his appearance on It Is What It Is, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

Read More: Miami Heat’s Roster Concerns Stall Damian Lillard Talks

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Damian Lillard Performs At Portland Wedding

Damian Lillard is still a Portland Trail Blazer. Despite requesting a trade to the Miami Heat at the start of July, very little progress has been made in making that trade happen. However, maybe that’s not the worst thing in the world for the city of Portland. Earlier this week, Lillard crashed a wedding in the city, even going as far as to perform for the happy couple.

Jay and Kelly Virdee were surprised by the appearance of Lillard, who was invited by a mutual friend, rapper Dreebo. The LA rapper convinced Lillard to attend, leading to Lillard going into D.O.L.L.A. Dame mode and performing his Dreebo collab “Home Team” for the happy couple. The Virdees, who are reportedly massive fans of Lillard, met six years ago at a Portland winery. Furthermore, Jay even grew up in the same area as Lillard before moving to the PNW for work. Congratulations to the newlyweds.

Read More: First Take posts Drake meme to celebrate the successful debut of Shannon Sharpe and Stephen A. Smith

Lillard Performs “Home Team” At Local Wedding

However, it’s not the only levity that Lillard has been experiencing recently. The seven-time also did a little bit of reference work with Cam’ron in recent weeks. 21 years after the release of Paid In Full, Cam’ron has recreated the iconic takeout scene with the help of Lillard. The Blazers superstar was 12 years old when Paid In Full came out and was still a full decade away from joining the NBA.

As for his trade woes, it doesn’t look like that is going to change anytime soon. While the Blazers aren’t interested in forcing a deal with Miami, it doesn’t look like there is much of a market for Lillard beyond South Beach. “There’s not that many teams that are going to give you a bunch of players and picks for a 33-year-old who can’t stay healthy and has a giant contract sitting there. It was not anything Dame said or Aaron Goodwin said that shut down the market. That stuff didn’t help. But there weren’t teams lined up for him even before that,” an anonymous NBA executive told Forbes.

Read More: Luka Dončić and Dillon Brooks both ejected from same FIBA World Cup match

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Damian Lillard Recreates Iconic “Paid In Full” Scene With Cam’ron

Paid In Full is cult classic crime drama from 2002. Starring Wood Harris, Mekhi Phifer, and Cam’ron, the film follows three Harlem drug dealers. The film is a fictionalized version of the lives of actual 80s dealers AZ Faison, Rich Porter, and Alpo Martinez. Largely panned by critics, the film found a following amongst select audiences. It currently holds a 93% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One of the most iconic scenes of the film is when the three main characters get Chinese takeout in an artfully shot scene.

Now, 21 years later, Cam’ron has recreated that scene with the help of a surprise guest. In a photo posted to social media, Cam’ron can be seen recreating the Chinese food scene with the help of NBA star Damian Lillard. The Blazers superstar was 12 years old when Paid In Full came out and still a full decade away from joining the NBA. However, it’s a fun moment of levity amid a brutal offseason for Lillard.

Read More: Shaq speaks on massive weight loss

Damian Lillard Is Still Very Much A Blazer

 
 
 
 
 
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It’s now been several months since Damian Lillard requested a trade out of Portland. That request appears to be going nowhere. The Blazers appear happy to wait on an offer they would be willing to give Lillard up for. If you have forgotten, and who can blame you at this point, Lillard is under contract for four years and has no trade clauses in his contract. If the Blazers don’t trade him and he refuses to play, he’s the one that suffers.

Meanwhile, there doesn’t appear to be a trade market beyond Miami, who aren’t willing to meet the Blazers’ demands. “There’s not that many teams that are going to give you a bunch of players and picks for a 33-year-old who can’t stay healthy and has a giant contract sitting there. It was not anything Dame said or Aaron Goodwin said that shut down the market. That stuff didn’t help. But there weren’t teams lined up for him even before that,” an anonymous NBA executive told Forbes.

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Damian Lillard, AKA Dame D.O.L.L.A., Delivers New Album ‘Don D.O.L.L.A.’

Damian Lillard, AKA Dame D.O.L.L.A., Delivers New Album 'Don D.O.L.L.A.'

Renowned rapper and NBA star Damian Lillard, alias Dame D.O.L.L.A., has pulled back the curtain on his most personal project yet, Don D.O.L.L.A. The 15-track album, set to enthrall fans and critics alike, breaks boundaries and defies expectations. Lillard’s lyrical prowess is laid bare through poignant verses and passionate deliveries, offering an unfiltered look into his world. The album delves deep into themes of fame, family, and life’s pressures, providing a raw and honest perspective.

Don D.O.L.L.A. boasts a stellar lineup with various collaborators, including Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Ty Dolla $ign, and more. Each guest artist adds a unique dimension to the album’s rich tapestry. Expertly produced by talents like Nonstop Da Hitman and Ayo, the album’s sonic landscapes seamlessly complement Dame’s lyrical finesse. Don D.O.L.L.A. promises a captivating and immersive musical journey, inviting listeners to experience Lillard’s artistry in its truest form.

“Creating ‘Don D.O.L.L.A.’ has been a transformative journey for me as I deal with the obstacles in my life,” reflects Dame D.O.L.L.A. “I wanted to make an album that not only showcased my growth as an artist but also conveyed the complexities of my life and responsibilities. This project allowed me to delve into my emotions and share my experiences in a way I’ve never done before. I usually record an album during the NBA offseason in a couple of weeks, but this album took over a year. I sat with this art and made sure I was saying exactly what I wanted to say in the best way I could. I know I became a better artist and storyteller with this album.”

You can hear the album below.

The post Damian Lillard, AKA Dame D.O.L.L.A., Delivers New Album ‘Don D.O.L.L.A.’ first appeared on The Source.

The post Damian Lillard, AKA Dame D.O.L.L.A., Delivers New Album ‘Don D.O.L.L.A.’ appeared first on The Source.

Damian Lillard’s ‘Don D.O.L.L.A.’ Album Trailer Is A Laser-Focused Showcase Of His Grind On And Off Of The Court

It’s nearly Dametime. Damian Lillard, known musically as Dam Dolla, is nearly ready to drop his latest album, Don D.O.L.L.A. On the basketball court, he’s earned the respect of some of the game’s most celebrated players. Within the music industry, Dolla is doing to same as he continues to collect impressive collaborations, including Snoop Dogg.

In the album’s official trailer, director Brookfield Duece shows Dolla’s laser-focused grind to be the best on the court and in the booth. The athlete/musician took to Instagram to share a note about the forthcoming release, writing, “My 5th album, #DonDOLLA, is dropping in a couple of weeks. The most complete project I’ve put together. Top-notch features and production.”

The project will feature 15 songs, including previously shared singles “The Way It Goes” and “Cabo” featuring Sy Ari Da Kid. Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Ty Dolla Sign, Tobe Nwigwe, Jordan Sparks, Rexx Life Raj, and more will make guest appearances on the album. As for basketball fans holding out to learn more about his career on the court, Dolla also has a message for them.

“Basketball is what I do, but it’s not entirely who I am. Every time I get into the recording booth, it’s like stepping into another world. Being able to pursue a career in music and basketball allows me to be who I am, on my own terms,” wrote Dolla in a separate post on Instagram. Regardless of the NBA team he lands when trade talks have concluded, he’s confirmed that his music career will travel with him.

Watch the trailer above.

Don Dolla is out 8/17 via Front Page Music/Empire. Find more information here.

Paul Pierce Doesn’t Believe Dame Lillard Gets The Miami Heat A Ring

Damian Lillard formally requested a trade on July 2, citing the Miami Heat as his preferred destination. However, with Lillard not holding a no-trade clause, the Blazers have been steadfast in seeking the best deal for the team. This has been a problem for the Heat, who haven’t been wowing the Blazers with their Tyler Herro-centric offers. Meanwhile, Lillard’s agent has reportedly been contacting prospective Lillard suitors and telling them to back off. Reportedly, Aaron Gordon has told teams that they would get an “unhappy” version of Lillard if he was sent to a team other than the Heat.

According to Aaron Fentress of Oregon Live, “The Blazers, according to NBA sources, are seeking in the neighborhood of four first-round picks and two quality players.” This sounds like an equitable package for what they would be giving up in Lillard. Fentress more recently reported that the Portland Trail Blazers and Miami Heat are “pretty close” to finalizing a deal that would send Damian Lillard to South Beach. According to Aaron J. Fentress, Miami has offered three first-round picks, guard Tyler Herro, salary filler, and potentially a young player. However, Paul Pierce isn’t buying the hype.

Paul Pierce Says Lillard Heat Are A First-Round Team

“You put them three together [Butler, Adebayo, Lillard], they won’t make it out the first round,” Pierce declared on the Blue Wire Podcast. “You gotta understand how they got to the championship this year. A lot of this had to do with they depth. A lot of this had to do with they depth and a lot of guys playing way above they pay grade. Caleb, Anthony, these guys were averaging 20 points on Boston. We ain’t seen them do that. Duncan Robinson…To get Dame, they gone. You gonna have to gut that team out. They lost Vincent, Strus, A’ight, what’d Strus do? He was killer. Vincent? 20. Caleb? 20.” Pierce’s cohosts were completely taken by Pierce’s assertions…except he’s completely right. Sure, maybe “first round” is a little over the top, but he’s right.

We know that if the Heat acquire Dame, Tyler Herro is gone. That’s 20 ppg off the board. At least one young player gone as well, that’s another 5 to 10 ppg off the board. All this in a conference with Milwaukee, Boston, Philadelphia, etc. Yes, Miami wants Dame and Dame wants Miami. But Dame wants to win in Miami. Is Lillard minus whatever depth you give up for him really going to win you a championship over Denver, Phoenix, Golden State, or the Lakers? So sure, Paul Pierce is being a little dramatic, but he is absolutely right that a Big Three with no depth cannot win a title.

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Damian Lillard Reportedly “Pretty Close” To Joining Miami Heat

Per The Oregonian, the Portland Trail Blazers and Miami Heat are “pretty close” to finalizing a deal that would send Damian Lillard to South Beach. According to Aaron J. Fentress, Miami has offered three first-round picks, guard Tyler Herro, salary filler, and potentially a young player. Previously, it was reported that the Blazers had no interest in acquiring Herro. Furthermore, it was believed they were looking for four first-rounders and two impact players.

While Fentress notes that they are closing in on a deal, it’s likely that a third team will need to be involved in the trade to complete it. As Fentress noted, “If you don’t want Herro, you just have to find someone to take Herro and give you another first-round pick. Then you’re at four firsts and, then, at least one young player and salary filler, and maybe two young players.” To visualize that further:

  • Portland Gets: 3 firsts, salary filler, young player from Miami + 1 first, young player from Team 3
  • Miami Gets: Damian Lillard from Portland
  • Team 3 Gets: Tyler Herro from Miami

Who Could Complete The Damian Lillard Trade?

Damian Lillard
PORTLAND, OREGON – MARCH 14: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers reacts to a call during the third quarter against the New York Knicks at Moda Center on March 14, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. The New York Knicks won 123-107. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)

That begs the question – who could help finalize this blockbuster trade? In previous reporting, teams like the Pistons and Nets have been floated as potential partners. The Pistons definitely have the young talent to potentially give the Blazers a second player. They would also be able to give up a first-rounder as early as 2025. However, the question remains as to whether Detroit would be willing to give up a piece of the young core the team is building. The reverse is somewhat true for the Nets. They have a lot of draft capital, but minimal young players to give away.

Well, what about out west? The Timberwolves have some draft capital, but no young players that you’d exactly call impact additions. The Thunder is currently running a very young roster. Furthermore, they would benefit from another shooting threat like Herro. Additionally, the team has as many as four 2024 first-rounders. Essentially, the Lillard trade is so very complicated, primarily because the one player the Heat is willing to trade is the one person Portland doesn’t want. However, despite all the talk about the trade potentially taking months, we could be looking at a resolution sooner than we expected.

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