The NBA trade season is filled with excitement and rumors, and this year is no exception so far. In the Dame-Trade saga, interesting developments have been taking place. Just three days ago, NBA commissioner Adam Silver issued a stern warning against Dame and his agent about trade demands. This warning came after Damian Lillard openly admitted his desire to join the Miami Heat.?
With the lifting of restrictions after 30 July on certain players. The pieces are falling into place for what could become one of the most surprising moves. And it all started with an unexpected signing by the Miami Heat. A potential blockbuster trade involving Blazers‘ Dame and Heat appears to be inching closer.
Restrictions Lifted for Eligible Players
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In a recent development reported by ESPN’s Bobby Marks, restrictions have been lifted for 14 players who signed first-round, second-round, and two-way contracts back on July 1st. These players had a 30-day restriction window imposed upon them as part of their contracts. However, as of today, these restrictions no longer apply.
Restrictions for 14 players that signed first rd., second rd. and Two-Way Contracts have been lifted.
Those players signed a contract on July 1 and had a 30-day restriction window.
Free agents have a Dec. 15 or Jan. 15 trade restriction.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 31, 2023
This news opens up possibilities for trades involving these previously restricted players. It also means that teams can now freely negotiate deals without contractual limitations tied to those particular signings from earlier in the summer.
But how does this connect to the Dame-Miami trade??
Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. emerges as a Potential Trade Asset
One player whose eligibility has been unlocked due to these lifted restrictions is Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr., who recently signed his contract. The? 6’7″ young rookie, could potentially become an essential piece in any looming Damian Lillard trade scenario between Portland and Miami.
Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. is now officially eligible to be traded after signing his contract.
Jaquez could be a required piece for a looming Damian Lillard trade. pic.twitter.com/8bubaVFBBZ
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) July 31, 2023
While there haven’t been official reports linking his name directly with a potential deal surrounding Lillard just yet. Many insiders believe he could serve as valuable trade bait for the Heat. Any trade involving Dame would require a significant package in return and Jaime?s inclusion could just be one part of a larger puzzle.
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The pieces are slowly falling into place for what could be an exciting move in the NBA. As fans eagerly await further developments, one thing is certain. If Damian Lillard were to make his way to Miami, it would undoubtedly shake up the league and create a formidable partnership alongside
Jimmy Butler.ADVERTISEMENT
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