In NBA, relationships between players and their teams can sometimes reach an irreparable point. Joel Embiid, and the potential blockbuster trade scenario surrounding him and Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard, an iconic figure in the Blazers’ roster, has expressed his desire for a trade, raising questions about the future of their partnership. While the door seems to be closing, could there still be room for a Hail Mary play?
In the midst of this uncertainty, the idea of a blockbuster trade involving Joel Embiid, the standout center of the Philadelphia 76ers, emerges. Could the Blazers leverage the evolving landscape of the NBA to pair Embiid with Lillard in a bid to reshape their team’s destiny?
Could Joel Embiid and Damian Lillard Join Forces?
The proposed trade scenario is intriguing: the Philadelphia 76ers would receive C Jusuf Nurkic, G Anfernee Simons, G Scoot Henderson, 2026 First-Round Pick, and 2028 First-Round Pick from the Portland Trail Blazers. In exchange, the Blazers would acquire the formidable presence of Joel Embiid. While this proposition might seem like fantasy basketball, it’s worth delving into the potential benefits for both sides.
For the Blazers, the move could mark a fresh start, creating an inside-outside dynamic that would be incredibly challenging for opponents to guard. The combination of Embiid’s dominance in the paint and Lillard’s remarkable scoring ability could elevate the team’s performance to new heights. The addition of Embiid to the roster could even potentially change Lillard’s perspective on his future with the team.
On the other hand, the Sixers, faced with uncertainties surrounding James Harden’s trade request and the need to retain Joel Embiid, could find this deal enticing. Scoot Henderson’s limitless potential, compared to the athleticism of Ja Morant and the floor vision of Chris Paul, could inject new energy into the Sixers’ roster. Furthermore, the inclusion of Anfernee Simons, a star-level shooting guard, adds depth and talent to their lineup.
Every trade scenario has its complexities. The Blazers might be hesitant to part with rising talent like Henderson, and the Sixers could have concerns about the compatibility of multiple star guards. However, the potential benefits of such a deal are hard to ignore.
Most PPG Last 5 Years
(regular season + playoffs):29.1 — Giannis Antetokounmpo
28.4 — Damian Lillard
28.4 — Kevin Durant
28.3 — Stephen Curry
28.2 — Joel Embiid
28.0 — Luka Doncic
27.8 — James Harden
27.2 — LeBron James
27.1 — Bradley Beal
26.8 — Devin BookerTakeaways? pic.twitter.com/N8XVvCOnTd
— Hoop Muse (@HoopMuse) August 27, 2023
In the end, while the chances of such a trade taking place might be slim, it’s the realm of speculation that keeps fans engaged and conversations buzzing. As the NBA continues to surprise with its twists and turns, the possibility of seeing Damian Lillard and Joel Embiid sharing the court remains a tantalizing thought—a thought that reminds us that in the NBA, just like in life, change is the only constant.
