Author: Monojit Mandal
In a flurry of NBA trade rumors and speculation, Damian Lillard was sold to the Milwaukее Bucks, causing a seismic shift in the league. The news broke on Adrian Wojnarowski’s social media, sparking a frenzy of activity among NBA officials. The aim of these discussions and Zoom sessions, however, was not just to discuss the exciting idea of Lillard teaming up with Giannis Antеtokounmpo. Instead, he focused on the possibility of a third transaction involving the Portland Trail Blazers and the Phoenix Suns: the availability of All-Star point guard Jruе Holiday, 33.
While Milwaukee’s future superstar combination promises to create the foundation of a title contending club, Jrue Holiday could emerge as the real cornerstone in this season’s title quest. This sequence of events is unprecedented in the NBA, with one big deal leading to the likelihood of another change in the league.
Portland spent three months negotiating a contract for Damian Lillard. Trading Jrue Holiday, on the other hand, could be considerably easier if the Trail Blazers adopt a youth-oriented approach centered on accumulating undervalued assets. That’s not to say that Holiday surpasses Lillard in terms of talent; after all, Lillard is one of the best offensive players of his generation. Instead, it’s Holiday’s sought-after skill set that sets him apart – an excellent defender coming off one of his most brilliant offensive seasons in a 14-year career. His championship experience and adaptability to take on various positions make him a valuable asset, especially for teams full of stars.
The clubs that were initially interested in Lillard could now reopen negotiations with the Blazers and perhaps pick up Jrue Holiday. That list includes the Miami Heat, who have been very quiet in front of Portland, but could benefit immensely from Holiday’s versatility, especially after losing guards Gabe Vincent and Max Strus in the summer. The Heat have enough assets to revive negotiations with the Blazers, including intriguing young players like Nikola Jovic and Jaime Jaquez Jr. as well as a stockpile of future first-round picks.
The Boston Celtics are also possible suitors for Jrue Holiday. They’ve been looking for a deal with Malcolm Brogdon since June and have a lot of first-round picks. The addition of Holiday could help fill the void created by the departure of veteran defender Marcus Smart.