As reported earlier, Damian Lillard and James Harden’s trade requests were linked to a chain reaction. If one is successful to move, it will force other dominoes to fall off in a quick reaction. It has been a few weeks since Lillard asked for a trade for the first time since joining the Portland Trail Blazers in 2012.
Harden’s request doesn’t come as a surprise to fans, or to basketball pundits, as he had already switched 3 teams in 2 years. He has a knack for switching teams. But recent developments signal towards the Philadelphia 76ers star player leaves himself.
Miami Heat’s failed attempt on Damian Lillard
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James Harden was with the 76ers for only a year now, but his reputation as a Glory hunter seems to come true. However, a former NBA legend warned Harden’s potential destination Los Angeles Clippers to “Stay wary” of signing him. On the other hand, the 2023 NBA MVP Joel Embiid, looking forward to another partnership with Harden, might be in search for a destination himself.
As per The Athletic, speculations arise on the possibility that the Miami Heat would want to trade for Joel Embiid to reunite him with Jimmy Butler. This comes right after receiving a poor return for James Harden in the past. Reportedly, 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey may consider dealing with Embiid.
Miami could also offer the dynamic and highly gifted 4x NBA All-Star, Bam Adebayo, in the package of the hypothetical trade scenario. This will be where he was chosen to the All-Defensive Team twice. The 76ers may be more willing to deal with Embiid if they receive this trade package.
Miami Heat to face a tough call
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If the 76ers are to go through with this Embiid trade, it’s likely that they will abandon their pursuit of a trade for Damian Lillard. This will be for a very simple reason – they will be short on assets. Even if they pursue it, there’s no assurance that trade for Lillard will take place at all.
However, the speculations open up intriguing trade market possibilities for the NBA, including the possibility of talented players like Embiid and Jimmy Butler reuniting in Miami.
The course of the situation and the final decisions the teams make are still uncertain.
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What’s your take on this? Will Miami Heat sign Embiid? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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