Based on comments I have received, here is the latest version of my Damian Lillard to Miami trade proposal.

On August 2nd, 2005, the world forever changed. Pat Riley organized a five-team, thirteen-player trade, a signature moment in Miami Heat history, which eventually led them to winning their first NBA championship.

This proposal would also be another record setting blockbuster, potentially involving four teams and 16 players. This trade adds a feather to Lillard's hat, adding to his legacy involvement in a new NBA record setting trade.

Why the Trailblazers do this:

Dame wants out, but Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe will still make up a small backcourt. The Trailblazers cannot take a gaggle of talent in exchange for Damian Lillard. The Heat have assets that match Dame's contract but not the Blazers' lineup. This trade allows the Trailblazers to acquire talent while sending Damian to a contender, hopefully to compete in the NBA Finals.

Additionally, LaMarcus Aldridge makes his return to Portland via a sign-and-trade.

Why the Heat do this:

Damian is the best clutch shooter in Trailblazers' history. If Miami finds themselves down two points before the end of regulation, give Dame the ball. By sending their tradable assets to other teams, which gets the Trailblazers the talent and size they need, Miami creates a win-win solution for both franchises.

Additionally, T.J. McConnell and Aaron Nesmith add valuable depth, which would be otherwise lost by transacting Herro, Robinson, and Lowry.

Why the Nets do this:

Adding Robinson to the Brooklyn roster adds impactful offense that could make the Mikal Bridges-led Brooklyn an Eastern Conference contender. Also, Spencer Dinwiddie can play either scoring guard or point guard, so adding Lowry does not create a roster conflict, and it could add more offense to their roster. Alternatively, Lowery becomes a tradable asset at the '24 trade deadline or he could be released at the end of his contract.

Additionally, in exchange for LaMarcus Aldridge, the Nets gain a young prospect in Jabari Walker. Walker likely does not fit the Trailblazers' '23-'24 roster. News is Jabari's rebounding and defense have improved in summer league, although his shooting still needs improvement. Alas, he's potentially a solid role player.

Why the Pacers do this:

The Pacers could move into contention, but they need to improve at the #3 or #4 position. Adding Tyler Herro to their roster potentially fills the gap at #3. All they need to do is give up some of their youthful depth to compete next year (https://fansided.com/2023/05/23/pacers-2023-offseason-primer-targets-free-agents-trades-draft-needs/).