5 teams that could make a compelling trade offer for Damian Lillard

4. New York Knicks

Like the 76ers, the New York Knicks are a team trying to figure out where they go next after playoff disappointment. New York had a surprising season thanks to the emergence of Julius Randle as an All-Star. Now they’re in a position to strengthen the roster around him.

There’s no doubt Damian Lillard would be a huge pickup for the Knicks. He’d make them a contender in the Eastern Conference. The trouble is, he’d also cost quite a bit to get.

New York has some assets the Blazers might covet. They’d have to give up the likes of RJ Barrett and Obi Toppin, two promising young players who helped drive the success of the 2020-21 season, along with their collection of first-round draft picks.

When it comes to competing for NBA titles, sometimes a bold move is necessary. This bold move could pay huge dividends for the Knicks while giving Portland exactly what they need to rebuild without Lillard. Barrett and Toppin are 20 and 22, respectively, with tons of potential. There’s no doubt the Trail Blazers would at least listen to an offer if those two were involved.

The Knicks might not be willing to part with those prospects, though.