Damian Lillard Announces Blazers Return with "Together Again" Message
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA and ignited excitement among Portland Trail Blazers fans, Damian Lillard is returning to Rip City. Lillard confirmed the news on July 17, 2025, via an Instagram video showcasing a Blazers locker room with his nameplate, accompanied by the words "Together Again." The announcement signals a reunion between the nine-time All-Star and the team where he spent the first 11 seasons of his career.
Reports indicate that Lillard is finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract with the Trail Blazers. The news follows Lillard's brief stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, which was cut short after an Achilles injury sidelined him during the 2025 playoffs. This new chapter marks a significant shift for both Lillard and the Trail Blazers organization.
Contract Details: A Financially Sound Reunion
The contract, worth an average of $14 million per year, includes a player option for the 2027-28 season and a no-trade clause, giving Lillard considerable control over his future. This deal represents a substantial pay cut for Lillard, who was previously earning over $60 million annually with the Bucks. However, the agreement provides the Trail Blazers with a financially viable way to bring back a beloved player and mentor for their young core.
Bucks Waive Lillard, Clear Cap Space for Myles Turner
Earlier in July 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks waived Lillard, stretching the remaining $113 million on his contract over five years. This decision was primarily driven by the Bucks' desire to create cap space, which they subsequently used to sign Myles Turner to a four-year, $108.9 million contract. Despite Lillard's impressive stats with the Bucks during the 2024-25 season, averaging 24.9 points and 7.1 assists, the partnership did not yield the desired playoff success, prompting the team to make significant roster changes.
Achilles Injury Clouds Immediate Future
Lillard's return is also framed by the serious Achilles tendon injury he sustained in April 2025 during Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. The injury is expected to keep him sidelined for the majority, if not all, of the 2025-26 NBA season as he undergoes extensive rehabilitation. Lillard, who turned 35 in July 2025, faces a challenging road to recovery, making his on-court impact in the seasons following his return uncertain.
Timeline of Key Events in Lillard's Career
Damian Lillard's career has been marked by several pivotal moments:
- July 2012: Drafted 6th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.
- September 2023: Traded to the Milwaukee Bucks.
- April 2025: Suffers a torn left Achilles tendon during the NBA playoffs.
- Early July 2025: Milwaukee Bucks waive Lillard.
- July 17, 2025: Reports surface of Lillard finalizing a new contract with the Trail Blazers.
- 2025-26 NBA Season: Expected to miss significant time for rehabilitation.
- 2027-28 NBA Season: Player option in new contract.
Stakeholders React to Lillard's Return
Lillard's return involves several key stakeholders:
- Damian Lillard: Sees this as a chance to rehabilitate in a familiar environment and potentially finish his career on his own terms.
- Portland Trail Blazers: Gain a veteran leader and fan favorite, boosting team morale and ticket sales during a rebuilding phase. General Manager Joe Cronin and head coach Chauncey Billups played key roles in facilitating the reunion.
- Milwaukee Bucks: Gain cap flexibility but face "dead money" on their books for the next five years.
- NBA Fans (especially Portland fans): Overwhelmingly positive reaction, viewing Lillard's return as an emotional homecoming.
- The Paul Allen Estate: Lillard's return is unlikely to significantly impact the team's potential sale.
Mixed Reactions and Potential Consequences
While the return of Lillard has been met with excitement, some debate exists regarding the strategic wisdom of signing an aging, injured player, even at a reduced price. Some analysts question whether the nostalgia outweighs the long-term team-building strategy. However, the potential benefits are undeniable. Lillard's mentorship is expected to be invaluable for the Blazers' young core, including players like Scoot Henderson, Toumani Camara, and Yang Hansen. Furthermore, his return is likely to boost attendance and merchandise sales, re-energizing the fanbase.
Figures and Stats
Key figures and stats surrounding Lillard's return include:
- Contract Details: Three-year, $42 million deal with a player option for the 2027-28 season.
- Lillard's Agent: Aaron Goodwin emphasized that this opportunity allows Lillard to rehabilitate and decide his next steps while still being paid his contract.
- Lillard's Stats (with Bucks 2024-25 season): Averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds, earning his ninth All-Star Game selection.
- Lillard's Career Stats: Averages 25.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds, ranking fourth in NBA history for 3-pointers made.
