Things have been tricky for the Milwaukee Bucks. Since their last win in 2021, the team has been looking for that moment to shine again. Secluding themselves to the divisional titles won’t be enough. Especially now that the competition in the Eastern Conference has taken a strong turn, the Bucks must gear up. Keeping in mind that the defending champions, the Celtics are also in the EC, it becomes even more crucial to hold the ground. Meanwhile, the Bucks have high hopes for their power duo, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Damian Lillard. Can this power duo, lead the team to a championship title?

Year one of Giannis and Dame’s partnership was disappointing. They struggled all regular season to find consistency and rhythm in their game. Sadly, the Bucks flamed out in the first round following the Greek powerhouse’s calf injury that kept him benched for the series. Moreover, Lillard is almost in the twilight of his career. At the age of 34, if he’s giving his best, matching the pace of the rookies, that’s commendable in itself. However, a massive responsibility comes to the shoulders of this duo. What’s that?

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins says Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are under pressure to win the next season, that is, the 2024-25 season. “Just making it to the playoffs or the conference finals is not enough. … We got to keep that same energy with Damian Lillard.” As we said earlier, in the mid-30s if Damian can deliver a decent performance then others need to buckle up. Moreover, being an 8x NBA All-Star gives Dame an added advantage. Some of the teams still want to have him, despite his age.

But what lies ahead for the Milwaukee Bucks? Now that there are rumors linking Damian Lillard to the Miami Heat, do the Bucks have a plan chalked out? Suppose, Dame decides to leave the Bucks for the Heat, then a backup plan is a must.

Rumors surrounding Damian Lillard’s Miami Heat conversation are escalating

The Miami Heat has an important spot vacant with Jimmy Butler‘s exit this offseason. They seemed to have found the face of their franchise, and yes, it’s Damian Lillard. The last offseason was a series of speculations on Dame’s Heat trade. However, the same is repeating itself this time and may repeat itself next time too. But, will the Heat give up this time? The straightforward answer is no. If the situation at the Bucks doesn’t change for the 34YO, then Miami could be the outlet. Zach Lowe thinks the same too. “If things don’t go well in Milwaukee, why would the Heat not call again about Damian Lillard? Why would other teams that were interested not call again about Damian Lillard, depending on how he’s putting? He’s the one that would make the most sense.”

Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks signed three players this offseason. In an attempt to back their aging quadruple: Lillard, Antetokounmpo, Lopez, and Middleton. Moreover, Lopez might be moved to shake things up for the Bucks. Lillard, at 34, is declining and still searching for his first championship. Despite his great career, he risks being overlooked without a title. Antetokounmpo is already a champion and close to all-time greatness. However, the Bucks have struggled in the playoffs since his 2021 Finals MVP win, with Giannis Antetokounmpo dealing with injuries in recent seasons.

So, Damian Lillard has two paths before him: Stay with the Bucks or choose the Heat. There’s still time before the training camp begins and things must happen quickly now. What would be the side effects of both cases and what will happen to Lillard’s remaining career? Some permutations and combinations need to be calculated before it’s too late.