Damien Lillard’s career seemed uncertain after his Achilles tendon tore on April 27th. At that time, it was widely believed this injury could signal the end for the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship hopes, potentially forcing them to trade star player Giannis Antetokounmpo, while Lillard might end up rehabbing for the 2025-26 season with a team that no longer suited him. If the Bucks traded him before his contract ended in 2027, his future team would be unknown. However, 81 days later, Lillard appears to have emerged as the biggest winner of the offseason.
The Bucks chose to move on from Lillard, freeing up cap space through stretch provision, which gave Lillard the freedom to sign with any team. Now a free agent for the first time in his career, Lillard has decided to return to his hometown team, the Portland Trail Blazers, agreeing to a three-year, $42 million deal, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. For the upcoming season, despite the slim chance of him playing in any games, the Blazers will pay him $14.1 million—essentially a full mid-level exception. Lillard planned to rehab in Portland regardless, allowing him to be close to his children. He also secured a no-trade clause and a player option in the contract’s third year, giving him control over his future.
If Lillard returns to top form and aims for a championship elsewhere, he can opt for free agency again in 2027, as if the Bucks had never let him go. Meanwhile, Milwaukee will continue to pay him $22.5 million annually for five more years.
This comeback to the Trail Blazers could be rewarding for both sides. Though the Blazers have young talents like 21-year-old Scoot Henderson and 22-year-old Sheldon Sharp expected to lead the backcourt in the future, bringing back the 35-year-old former All-Star Lillard adds veteran security. Legally, other teams couldn’t offer Lillard a no-trade clause, and no other franchise likely matched Portland’s perfect offer and rehab-friendly environment. Two years ago, when the Blazers couldn’t trade him to the Miami Heat, Lillard unsuccessfully requested a move. Upon returning to the Moda Center against the Bucks, he was celebrated as a hero with standing ovations and lengthy tributes. While he may never fully integrate into another team like this, finishing his career in Portland will help overshadow his two years in Milwaukee, much like Michael Jordan’s stint with Washington.
Though it will take time for Lillard to don the Blazers logo again and uncertain how much momentum the franchise can rebuild, his return is a historic moment for Portland. Lillard can’t reverse his injury or erase his difficult Milwaukee chapter, but this reunion is the next best outcome.
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Fan Take: This news is huge for basketball fans because it symbolizes resilience and loyalty, showing that even after adversity, a star player can return home and inspire hope. It could redefine player-team relationships and influence how future contracts and rehabs are handled in the NBA.
