Boston Celtics: The definitive 3-team Damian Lillard blockbuster

Why the Boston Celtics do it

Instead of landing Damian Lillard, Brad Stevens should look into the price of nabbing his backcourt partner in crime instead. CJ McCollum hasn’t been a pure point guard since coming into the league, but each of his eight seasons as a pro has been alongside the 6x All-Star.

McCollum has been called a very good third option kind of player by Zach Lowe, and on the Cs, he would be just that. Acquiring Lillard would require Jaylen Brown, which could be a non-starter for Stevens after he coached the former #3 pick up into an All-Star.

McCollum would be joined by Robert Covington, who shot 38% on five 3-point attempts per game. That floor spacing would be optimal for the isolation dominance of the Jays.

Why the New York Knicks do it

After flaming out in the first round of the NBA postseason, the Knicks will need to do something drastic to placate their restless fanbase. Damian Lillard is a pretty powerful placation if you ask us.

In this deal, Marcus Smart would be added as well, with his dogged defensive intensity being a glove fit for Tom Thibadeau’s defensive schemes. Such a big backcourt return will cost the team valuable draft stock and several key young pieces as well.

Why the Portland Trail Blazers do it

If Lillard is a goner, rebuilding is the best way forward. Getting rid of both backcourt studs as well as Robert Covington is tough, but the rebuild begins in earnest with three future draft picks and three recent draft picks.