After Damian Lillard Holds Back on Pulling Off a James Harden, Former NBA All-Star Urges Blazers to Make a Selfish Move

The 2023 NBA offseason has witnessed two highly dramatic events play out in the span of just a few months. Two of the league’s most talented guards, James Harden and Damian Lillard requested trades out of their respective franchises. Both incidents have played out dramatically over the months but have not reached a conclusion yet. Now, Harden’s infamous comments in China have only escalated the matter.

James Harden directed frustrated comments at Daryl Morey and the Philadelphia 76ers made the trade saga even more chaotic. Lillard on the other hand has been awfully quiet about his situation. Dame D.O.L.L.A’s reticence even grabbed a former All-Star’s attention who had some suggestions for the Portland Trail Blazers.

Damian Lillard holds back on pulling off a James Harden

James Harden’s notorious reputation precedes him. The Beard is no stranger to controversy, often stirring major debates in the NBA world. He lived up to this very reputation when he made his infamous statements in China. Although they landed him in a heap of trouble, Harden put a strong message across. However, Damian Lillard did not have to get himself in trouble to do so.

In a recent interview, Lillard was asked his opinion on his trade situation. However, contrary to Harden, the 7-time All-Star chose to stay silent. “I’m not gonna speak on the Blazers. There’s a lot of love and respect but….I won’t speak on the Blazers,” he said. When asked about his trade request to the Miami Heat, Lillard stated, “I can say that there was and I would just prefer not to speak on the Trail Blazers.”

Despite the narratives surrounding his trade saga, Lillard chose to stay silent about the situation. However, former All-Star, Gilbert Arenas had his say about the entire fiasco. Taking to his podcast, the former Washington Wizards guard gave out some uncanny suggestions to the Blazers.

“At this point, just do right by themselves,” he said, urging the Blazers to make a selfish move. He added, “He wants out? Cool. I just need to match what he’s worth to us…..I need some pieces back that’s gonna match what he brings.”

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Arenas had his suggestions for the Blazers but he did not stop there. He discussed trade scenarios that will land Lillard in his preferred trade destination.

Arenas turns general manager for Lillard

Damian Lillard has been very vocal about his desire to join forces with the Miami Heat in the upcoming season. Given the Heat’s extraordinary run to the Finals last season and their need for a scoring point guard, it is justified for 7-time All-Star to crave a spot in their roster. However, this trade depends entirely on whether the Blazers get back what they want for Lillard. This is where Arenas chimed in to share his opinion.

In the same segment of the podcast, Arenas discussed a trade scenario that will land Lillard in Miami. “The Heat went to the Finals, I think they’re trying to figure out if they can win within the next three years….” he said, agreeing to a massive trade package that will send Lillard to Miami.

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The Heat need to offer a staggering trade package to get the services of the 33-year-old. The Blazers on the other hand will be looking to get the best possible pieces to make up for their superstar guard’s absence. In this high-stakes battle, Arenas endorsed the Heat’s bold move to land Lillard.