The Real Reason Why Damian Lillard Wants to Be Traded to the Miami Heat

Damian Lillard knows exactly where the best bet is, and it is the Miami Heat. Over the last couple of seasons, they have been one of the toughest teams around. Most of us would’ve witnessed Miami’s exceptional run during the 2022-23 post-season. To say it was a great run would be a severe understatement. The Eastern Conference Champions went to war since the start of the play-in tournament.

In the four seasons that Jimmy Butler has played for the Heat, they have been to the NBA Finals twice. It is important to note how hard he fought against the Heat’s opponents throughout the playoffs. Even though they lost Tyler Herro in the first round against the Milwaukee Bucks, they made it through to the end. This shows that the Heat only needs a slight nudge to close out the deal and win a title. 

Miami has been in constant contact with the Portland Trail Blazers, who have agreed to trade Damian Lillard. The Heat have made multiple attempts to finalize the trade. However, Portland has not been impressed with what they have had to offer so far. Miami agreed to pitch in Tyler Herro along with multiple first-round picks and swaps, second-picks, valuable assets, and expiring contracts. Portland is focused on acquiring newcomers and picks.

Damian Lillard reveals why he wants to play for the Miami Heat

Damian Lillard recently had an interview with Marc J Spears of Andscape and a few details were highlighted by the 7x All-Star. “I can say that there was [a trade request] and I would just prefer not to speak on the Trail Blazers,” Lillard told Spears. While he confirmed that he requested a trade, he did not reveal exactly where he wanted to end up. However, according to several league sources and off-season developments, it is apparent that he wants to play in Miami.

According to Spears, “Lillard is also attracted to the renowned ‘Heat Culture,’ consistent winning at a high level, franchise stability, no state taxes, and marketing opportunities.” Indeed, the Heat’s culture isn’t something you’d find in any other franchise. Erik Spoelstra happens to be the mastermind behind it who focuses on rising above all struggles irrespective of the outcome.

As stated by Spears, Damian Lillard is attracted by Florida’s tax laws. Interestingly, there is no income tax in Florida, which will allow Lillard to enjoy the benefits of having a hefty salary without giving a part of it to the state. Another reason why Lillard wants to play the Heat is because they will become the clear cut title contenders next season. His biggest goal is to win a title before he retires.