Damian Lillard is heading back to where his NBA journey began — in Portland.
According to someone familiar with the situation, Lillard has signed a three-year contract worth $42 million to return to the Portland Trail Blazers. The person shared the news with The Associated Press but asked not to be named, as the deal hasn’t been officially announced yet. ESPN was the first to report it.
Lillard, now 35 years old, was originally drafted by the Trail Blazers as the sixth overall pick in 2012. He played 11 seasons with Portland before being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks just before the 2023-24 season.
Still, fans may have to wait to see him back in action. Lillard injured his left Achilles tendon during a playoff game against the Indiana Pacers and had to undergo surgery. Because of this serious injury, he might miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season. Earlier this month, the Bucks waived him and chose to spread the remaining $113 million from his contract over five years.
This season, Damian Lillard was ranked 10th in the NBA for scoring (24.9 points per game) and assists (7.1 per game). He was also selected for his ninth All-Star Game. However, he played in only 58 games because of a serious health issue called deep vein thrombosis.
Lillard confirmed his return to Portland by posting a video on Instagram. It showed the Trail Blazers’ locker room and ended with a shot of a locker with his name on it and the words “Together Again.” He added the caption, “RipCityyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!”
In his last season with the Trail Blazers, Lillard had an impressive average of 32.2 points per game. He made history by scoring 71 points in a single game against the Houston Rockets — becoming only the seventh player in NBA history to score over 70 points in one game.
Despite his amazing performances, the Blazers only won four playoff series during Lillard’s time with the team. They reached the Western Conference Finals just once.
Lillard was very popular in Portland and always said there were no hard feelings about leaving the team. He wanted a chance to win a championship with Giannis Antetokounmpo at the Milwaukee Bucks, while the Blazers were focused on young players like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
Lillard, who has his own Adidas shoe line, had hinted in 2024 at an event that he might return to Portland one day.
He holds the team records for most points (19,376) and most 3-pointers (2,387) in Trail Blazers history. He is also the only Blazer to score 70 or more points in a game and has scored over 60 points in five different games.
Over his NBA career, Lillard has averaged 25.1 points and 6.7 assists per game. He was named Rookie of the Year in 2013, made the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, and won a gold medal with Team USA at the Tokyo Olympics.
FAQ
Has Damian Lillard officially returned to Portland?
Yes, Damian Lillard has reunited with Portland, but it’s unclear whether the return is permanent or part of rehab and personal visits.
What kind of injury did Lillard suffer?
Lillard sustained a major injury that has affected his playing ability. Specific details depend on the latest medical reports, but it has raised concerns about his future in the league.
Is Lillard expected to play in the upcoming NBA season?
His return to active play remains uncertain. Medical evaluations and recovery progress will determine if and when he can get back on the court.
Why did he return to Portland?
Lillard may be back in Portland for rehabilitation, to reconnect with the team, or for personal reasons. It also sparked speculation about a potential reunion with the Trail Blazers.
What is Lillard’s current contract status?
As of now, Lillard remains under contract, but his injury and unclear recovery timeline leave his playing future and potential trade value uncertain.
