Do the Sixers have what it takes to trade for Damian Lillard?

No franchise is more eager to compete, and more eager to take the next step in that direction, than the Philadelphia 76ers. Another second-round exit has infused the offseason with a sense of urgency. Ben Simmons is hot in the rumor mill, while Daryl Morey is perhaps the most infamous big-swing GM in the league. Expect the Sixers to do something.

One of Morey’s signature big swings becomes ever more possible if a superstar demands a trade. Right now, it would appear Damian Lillard is approaching a trade request. While nothing is formal as of now, pushback to the Blazers’ head coaching search, in conjunction with Portland’s inability to build a contender, seems to be testing Lillard’s loyalty. There’s a lot of smoke, and it smells like a fire.

The winds of change are blowing, and Damian Lillard might ask out of Portland. The Sixers should make a strong push.

Last season, the 30-year-old Lillard averaged 28.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 7.5 assists on 45.1 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from deep. He has 3-point range out to the logo, and is one of the most confident closers in recent NBA history — a stark departure from Ben Simmons, who refused to touch a basketball for three straight fourth quarters. He also has four years remaining on his contract.

Of course, if Lillard does eventually ask out, the Sixers should jump at the opportunity. While fans were split on James Harden early last season, no one is split on Lillard. Ben Simmons has lost the faith of the fanbase completely, and it’s hard to fathom a better superstar fit next to Joel Embiid. You can bet Morey will push all his chips in if Lillard does eventually reach the point of no return in Portland.

So, in answer to the initially posed question — yes. The Sixers have what it takes on paper. Does that mean Lillard is a lock for Philadelphia if a trade demand occurs…