The Miami Heat have emerged as a potential destination for superstar guard Damian Lillard following the Milwaukee Bucks' unexpected decision to waive him on Tuesday.
According to a tweet from ESPN insider Tim Reynolds, the Heat are expected to show interest in the seven-time All-Star, who now holds significant leverage in deciding his next move after the Bucks stretched his remaining $113 million contract to acquire Myles Turner.
Lillard’s release comes after a challenging tenure with the Bucks where a torn Achilles tendon sidelined him, prompting the Bucks to pivot their roster strategy.
Now a free agent with no rush to decide, the 34-year-old guard can rehab and choose his destination on his own terms.
For the Heat, this presents a golden opportunity to bolster their lineup with a proven scorer who averaged a remarkable 32.2 points per game during his final season with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2022-23.
Damian Lillard
Former Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard looks on during a game
Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Lillard, widely regarded as one of the greatest scoring point guards in the league, has failed mightily in the playoffs, boasting a dismal 24-44 throughout his career along with zero NBA Finals appearances.
The Heat, a storied franchise that's achieved boatloads of success under president Pat Riley and head coach Erik Spoelstra, could be the perfect team for Lillard to pursue a championship with.
As the basketball world watches, Lillard’s next chapter could reignite the Heat’s championship aspirations.
Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation—will the Heat land Lillard and reemerge as contenders in the Eastern Conference?