Tier 5: Could probably make a Lillard trade, but don’t want to

These teams lack the motivation to trade for Lillard.

Tier 3: Would only have the assets if Lillard forced the issue

These are the teams that make the most sense for Lillard, but that he probably doesn’t have the leverage to get to. Lillard needs a remotely competent defense to hold up in the postseason? Well, The Mavericks are nothing special on that end of the floor, but they just finished 21st. Portland was 29th. Jason Kidd was one of Lillard’s preferred candidates to fill Portland’s vacancy. There are teams that can offer Lillard a chance to win and there are teams that can offer Portland a worthwhile rebuilding package, but the Warriors are the team best-positioned to do both, and given his background, they are likely the realistic suitor Lillard is most likely to push for.