Damian Lillard Waived? Heat and Knicks Trade Talk Gains Steam
Introduction
Fans flooded social media after rumors suggested Damian Lillard was waived by the Milwaukee Bucks. The buzz spread fast, especially on Reddit, where users debated whether he might join the Miami Heat or New York Knicks. But is any of it true?
Let’s explore the facts, clear up the confusion, and look at where Lillard might actually land.
Is Damian Lillard Being Waived?
No, the Bucks have not waived Damian Lillard. He remains under contract in Milwaukee, where he landed in a 2023 blockbuster trade. Some fans misunderstood offseason cap talk and confused it with a waiver announcement.
Reddit threads ignited the rumor, but reputable NBA insiders haven’t reported anything to support it.
What Sparked the Waiver Rumors?
- The Bucks exited early in the 2025 playoffs.
- Lillard’s chemistry with Giannis faced questions.
- Reddit users misread potential trade moves as waivers.
If Milwaukee wanted to move Lillard, they’d trade him—not waive him. A waiver would crush their cap space and make no business sense.
Top Landing Spots If Lillard Leaves
1. Miami Heat
Lillard named Miami as a preferred destination in 2023. That interest still lives on. The Heat need a proven scorer next to Jimmy Butler, especially with Tyler Herro often sidelined.
Potential Trade Assets:
- Tyler Herro
- Jaime Jaquez Jr.
- Future first-round picks
Erik Spoelstra’s system could unlock Lillard’s late-career potential.
2. New York Knicks
The Knicks have draft capital and young talent to make a major move. They’ve needed a true superstar next to Jalen Brunson, and Lillard fits that bill.
Potential Trade Assets:
- RJ Barrett
- Mitchell Robinson
- Multiple picks
This pairing would give New York an elite scoring backcourt, though defense would need work.
What Reddit Users Are Saying
Reddit threads exploded with the “Lillard waived” rumor, but top comments quickly dismissed it. Fans still shared theories and built fake trades, fueling the idea of him landing in Miami or New York.
Many users revived past debates:
- Did Lillard make a mistake choosing Milwaukee?
- Would he fit better in Heat culture?
- Should the Knicks finally go all-in?
Lillard’s Current Situation
- Team: Milwaukee Bucks
- Contract: 4 years, $176 million
2024–25 Stats: 25.6 PPG | 6.3 APG | 39.2% 3PT
Lillard continues to produce at a high level. He’s still one of the league’s top scoring guards, and his leadership remains vital.
Conclusion
Right now, the talk of Damian Lillard being waived is only rumor. Reddit sparked the speculation, but facts tell a different story. While Lillard might get traded someday, it won’t come via the waiver wire. Still, trade buzz involving the Heat and Knicks shows how valuable and wanted he remains across the league.
FAQs
Q1: Has Damian Lillard been waived?
No. Lillard remains under contract with the Bucks.
Q2: Why are people linking Lillard to the Miami Heat?
He named them as a preferred destination during the 2023 offseason.
Q3: Could the Knicks trade for Lillard?
Yes. They have the assets to pursue a major trade if the Bucks decide to rebuild.
Q4: Where did the waiver rumor come from?
Reddit users misunderstood cap and trade discussions, leading to the false rumor.
Q5: What’s Lillard’s status now?
He’s healthy, active, and still a major piece of the Bucks’ roster.
