The NBA offseason continues to march on. The draft and Summer League are already in the books and most free agents have signed fresh deals. But while the offseason has provided answers to some big questions, it has also birthed plenty of others. With the start of the regular season still more than two months away, here’s a look at five lingering questions that will go a long way toward shaping the league next season and beyond.
Two of the top guards in the NBA — and two members of the league’s 75th Anniversary Team — have both requested trades and made it clear they want to land with one specific team. For Damian Lillard, it’s the Miami Heat; for James Harden, it’s the Los Angeles Clippers. How those requests are ultimately settled will go a long way toward shaping the league next season, and beyond.
After spending the entirety of his career to this point with the Portland Trail Blazers, Lillard requested a trade earlier this offseason after it became clear that the team wouldn’t be able to quickly build a legitimate contender around the 33-year old. Lillard has made it abundantly clear through his representation that he only has eyes for Miami when it comes to a trade.
Despite the fact that Lillard’s request came a full month ago, no deal appears imminent. Ultimately, the Blazers are in complete control of the situation, as Lillard still has three years remaining on his current contract, plus a player option, and doesn’t possess a no-trade clause. So, Portland could technically ship Lillard wherever they want — it doesn’t have to be Miami. At the same time, Lillard is arguably the best player in franchise history and has been immensely important to the team over the past decade-plus, so there’s certainly some desire on the team’s part to accommodate his wishes.
Understandably, Portland is seeking a hefty haul in return for Lillard in any potential trade. Their asking price is reportedly set at around four first round picks and two quality rotation pieces. Similarly, the Philadelphia 76ers are maintaining a steep asking…
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