Breaking news from the NBA! In a stunning three-team deal, the Portland Trail Blazers have decided to trade their star guard, Damian Lillard, to the Milwaukee Bucks. Lillard will now join forces with the formidable Giannis Antetokounmpo, creating a powerhouse duo that is sure to make waves in the league.

According to sources close to the matter, the trade involves the Phoenix Suns as well. In exchange for Lillard, the Blazers will receive Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, Milwaukee’s 2029 unprotected first-round draft pick, and the unprotected Milwaukee swap rights in 2028 and 2030.

The Bucks emerged as the consensus favorites to win the NBA title after the trade, with odds around 4-1 at U.S. sportsbooks. Milwaukee had been listed as the fourth-favorite, behind the defending-champion Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics and Suns.

On the other hand, the Suns will acquire Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson. This trade marks a significant shift for all three teams involved, as they look to strengthen their rosters and make a run for the championship.

Lillard’s departure from Portland comes after an impressive 11-season tenure with the Trail Blazers. During his time there, he achieved seven All-Star and All-NBA selections, leading the team to the playoffs eight times. Notably, Lillard guided the franchise to the Western Conference finals in the 2018-19 season. He holds the record for the most points and 3-pointers in team history and ranks second in assists.

In a statement shared on social media, Lillard expressed his excitement for the next chapter of his career. At 33 years old, he is coming off a career year, averaging an impressive 32.2 points and 7.3 assists per game. Despite his outstanding performances, the Blazers failed to make the playoffs for the second consecutive season, leading to Lillard’s trade request.

Meanwhile, the Blazers are actively engaged in other trade discussions and are expected to focus on contending teams to move Jrue Holiday. The organization remains committed to developing their young group of talented guards.

With the addition of Lillard, the Milwaukee Bucks have emerged as the frontrunners to win the NBA title. Sportsbooks in the United States have listed the Bucks’ odds at around 4-1, surpassing the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, as well as the Boston Celtics and the Suns.

Basketball fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the impact of this monumental trade. As the season unfolds, we can expect an exhilarating display of talent and fierce competition as these teams battle it out on the court.