NBA Rumors: 5 best trade destinations for Damian Lillard to win championship

No. 4 Damain Lillard trade destination: Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers are expected to pursue Lillard. What can Los Angeles offer beyond a couple picks and B-tier prospects? Not much, but remember: Lillard’s preferred destination is Miami, so the Clippers might not have to win the world’s toughest bidding war.

On paper, the appeal for Lillard should be obvious: Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are bonafide top-15 players at full health. The at full health bit is an important qualifier, but few teams can match LA’s ceiling when all the pieces are actually on the court. Lillard would increase the odds of LA having at least a couple operational stars when the playoffs roll around.

Lillard and Kawhi aren’t the cleanest fit, but you’re nitpicking at that point. Leonard has progressed significantly as a passer and he’s certainly comfortable spotting up on the perimeter and attacking closeouts when necessary. The Clippers would be able to toggle between Lillard and Leonard attacking the middle of the floor while PG13 patrols the wings as a super-charged third option.

Los Angeles has more depth than most expensive contenders due to a clever front office. A lot of that would probably be out the window in a Dame trade, but the Clippers should have enough bodies to build a credible team around the Lillard-Leonard-George trio. Plus, not many coaches can get more out of a janky second unit than Ty Lue.