Damian Lillard is officially coming home to Portland. After a brief but eventful time with the Milwaukee Bucks, the nine-time All-Star has signed a three-year, $42 million deal to rejoin the Trail Blazers. Lillard shared his excitement on social media with a picture of his old locker and the simple message, “RipCityyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!”, signaling a happy reunion with the team and city where he became a superstar.
🏠 A Journey Away and Back Home
Lillard, now 35, spent his first 11 seasons with the Trail Blazers after being drafted in 2012. He became the face of the franchise, known for his loyalty and incredible clutch shots. Seeking a chance to win a championship, he was traded to the Bucks before the 2023-24 season to team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, after just one season, the Bucks waived Lillard, opening the door for this surprising return to his basketball roots in Portland.
💪 The Road to Recovery
While fans are thrilled about his return, it may be some time before they see him play. Lillard suffered a serious injury, tearing his left Achilles tendon during the first round of the playoffs against the Pacers. He underwent surgery, and his recovery could cause him to miss the entire 2025-26 season. After waiving him, the Bucks chose to stretch the remaining $113 million on his previous large contract over five years, a financial move that allowed Lillard to become a free agent.
🌟 A Legacy in Rip City
During his time away, Lillard’s impact on the Bucks was clear, as he averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game. However, his legacy in Portland is legendary. In his final season there, he averaged an incredible 32.2 points, including a historic game where he scored 71 points against the Rockets. Despite his personal success, the team had limited playoff victories, which was a key reason for his original departure.
🤔 Looking Ahead for the Blazers
Lillard’s return creates an interesting new chapter for Portland. The team had been focused on developing its young talent, including guards Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe—the very reason the organization agreed to trade him. Now, Lillard returns as a veteran leader who can mentor these rising stars, even while he recovers from his injury. His presence, both on and off the court, signals a hopeful new era for the Trail Blazers, blending their celebrated past with a promising future.
