With Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard reportedly considering a trade request, we can expect plenty of speculation about a blockbuster deal throughout the summer.
The Boston Celtics could be an ideal landing spot for Lillard as he'd team up with fellow All-Stars Jayson Tatum and -- if he isn't involved in the hypothetical trade -- Jaylen Brown. In fact, Lillard apparently has been in touch with Tatum recently.
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According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Lillard was in contact with Tatum and helped convince the 23-year-old to join him on Team USA.
Windhorst writes:
Lillard was also in communication with Boston Celtics wing Jayson Tatum, who put off his decision on Team USA for some time after the season ended to evaluate his offseason priorities. Tatum was on the 2019 World Cup team that finished a disappointing seventh, in part because Tatum sprained his ankle in pool play.
When it was clear how the team was shaping up, Tatum's uncertainty faded and he committed, sources said.
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Given the trade rumors surrounding Lillard, it's hard to ignore the timing of that report. The 30-year-old has shared high praise for Tatum and these days, NBA stars are constantly scheming up ways to join forces. It's also no secret the Celtics could use a point guard after dealing Kemba Walker to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Lillard is entering the first year of his super-max contract extension.