There is reportedly one specific way for the Portland Trail Blazers to guarantee Damian Lillard does not ask for a trade and that would be by signing one particular star in 2023 NBA free agency.

Following the NBA Draft, there has been a ton of speculation about Damian Lillard’s future with the Portland Trail Blazers. For weeks the rumor mill suggested that if the team stayed pat and held on to their two first-round picks the Portland legend was expected to ask for a trade out of town. Since the belief around the league is the 11-year veteran wants the organization to retool by adding some impact veterans.

Following the 2023 NBA Draft, the Portland Trail Blazers general manager made it clear he has no intention of trading Lillard after drafting Scoot Henderson and Kris Murray in the June event. However, it has always been assumed Jim Cronin will acquiesce if Lillard asks for a trade.

On Monday, The Athletic NBA reporter Sam Amick revealed that the seven-time All-Star is expected to meet with team brass early next week to decide his future in Portland.