, the core of the 2019 Portland team that reached the conference finals, putting a much stronger team around them. The Pelicans would field a strong mix of players in their prime, youthful athleticism and veteran leadership with depth on both sides of the ball that would give Lillard a very realistic chance to contend during the course of his contract.
Start by removing Nurkic from the deal. I know Portland is looking to rid itself of the three years and $54 million left on his contract. But New Orleans hasunder contract for another season, and I would look to extend him rather than take back an unwanted salary. Plus, New Orleans is already in the luxury tax and this trade adds $7 million in additional salary.
After the multiple back-and-forth calls between the front offices, the trade is now modified to Williamson, Daniels, Lewis and a 2027 unprotected Milwaukee first for Lillard andThere is certainly a risk because of Williamson's health history, but this trade delivers Portland something that Miami, Philadelphia and Toronto could not do, a franchise player under contract for the next five seasons.