Toronto Raptors: 3 rumors from Atlantic rivals that aren’t good news

3. Knicks are looking to pull off a stunning Damian Lillard deal.

While trading for Lillard will be incredibly difficult given both Portland’s reluctance to make the deal happen and the fact his mind-boggling contract can only be absorbed by a handful of teams. The Knicks are one of the few teams who could pull this off, and the rumor mill suggests that they will make an effort.

Berman is reporting that the Knicks are considering getting on the phone with Neil Olshey and the Blazers. The Knicks have the vets that could intrigue the Blazers in addition to plenty of draft capital. The Raptors need to eliminate any thoughts of catching the Knicks if they can acquire Lillard without giving up Barrett.

Damian Lillard would put an end to thoughts of the Raptors beating the Knicks.

Lillard has a lethal combination of clutch scoring, unlimited range, and scoring touch inside, and his talents could be the catalyst that makes the Knicks a legit contender thanks to the 1-2 punch of the Weber State star on the outside and Randle inside.

The Raptors’ offseason plans hinge heavily on beating opposing teams to the punch and making sure their rivals don’t land any of the top available players. Lillard would be quite the trump card for the Knicks, and Toronto would be battling Boston for fourth place if this trade ends up materializing.