NBA Rumors: Surprise Western Conference Team In Play For Damian Lillard

The NBA world was relieved this weekend when Portland Trail Blazers superstar Damian Lillard finally requested a trade, putting an end to months of speculation, and while he's been open about the Miami Heat being his top destination, without a no-trade clause, the Blazers have made it clear that everyone in the NBA is a potential landing spot for him.

Philadelphia, New York, Brooklyn, San Antonio and Miami have all been floated out as possibilities, but in their latest report, The Athletic have revealed that the Utah Jazz are a surprise suitor for Portland, and after landing an incredible haul of picks a season ago, they have the capital to make a deal happen.

The Utah Jazz are expected to show interest in Damian Lillard, per @TheAthletic

Can this duo make some noise? 👀 pic.twitter.com/33lCRYM70b

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) July 2, 2023

While it wouldn't quite be the combination of Lillard, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, Utah have a solid young roster led by Lauri Markannen, John Collins and Jordan Clarkson, and it would certainly be a much better situation than we saw last season in Portland. 

Photo Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports