Lillard Returns to Blazers; Heat Acquire Powell

Damian Lillard is finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, which includes a player option and a no-trade clause, marking his significant return to the team. In another major NBA transaction, the Miami Heat have acquired Norman Powell from the Los Angeles Clippers in a multi-team deal that also involved the Utah Jazz. Dwyane Wade and other Heat legends praised Powell’s fit and potential to elevate Miami’s roster, while Heat legend Mike Miller expressed skepticism about whether the move alone makes the Heat championship contenders. The trade also sent John Collins to the Clippers and Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson, plus a future pick to the Jazz. Pat Riley is rumored to be considering further roster changes for the Heat. These moves highlight an active NBA offseason as teams look to reshape their lineups for the coming season.