The Bill Simmons Podcast Part 1: Does Portland Have to Trade Dame? Did Philly Ruin Things With Embiid? NBA Offseason Questions With Ryen Russillo
Jul 3, 2023
Ryen Russillo, an ESPN and The Ringer sports analyst, joins for a thought-provoking discussion. They delve into Damian Lillard's trade request and why Portland should hesitate on a deal. The complexities surrounding James Harden's future in Philadelphia spark debate about team dynamics and strategies. Insights on potential tank teams for the upcoming season highlight the unpredictable nature of the NBA offseason. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of player contracts and the balance between franchise needs and player empowerment.
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Lillard's Request Timing
- Damian Lillard's trade request timing is suspicious, coming after Portland re-signed Jerami Grant.
- This suggests Lillard may have communicated his intentions earlier, giving Portland time to prepare.
NBA's Transfer Portal Era
- The NBA has entered a "transfer portal era," where players sign contracts and then request trades.
- Teams now must consider players' motives when offering contracts, as loyalty is less certain.
Money vs. Winning
- Players prioritize maximizing earnings over winning championships, evidenced by Carmelo Anthony and Damian Lillard.
- This raises questions about balancing financial gain with competitive success in the NBA.