New York has a number of future draft picks at their disposal that they might be willing to part ways with in a potential Lillard trade. As it turns out, even rising star RJ Barrett might also be on the table for the Blazers (h/t ):
In a Lillard trade, the Knicks don’t want to have their roster ransacked but likely are willing to give up three of their future first-round picks. RJ Barrett is not considered an untouchable in a deal for a superstar, according to a source.
Lillard has also indicated time and again that he hasn’t demanded a trade away from the Blazers. However, the rumors just won’t die down. A move away from Portland has become even more plausible after yet another disappointing campaign for Lillard and the Blazers.
For his part, Barrett has a breakout year this past season. He was one of the main reasons behind the Knicks’ (short-lived) playoffs push, and he is definitely considered to be one of the key pieces of this squad’s future. However, if they’re going to get a guy like Damian Lillard in exchange, then it looks like Barrett will be New York’s most valuable trading chip.