Damian Lillard Returns to Portland Trail Blazers in Emotional $42M Reunion
Damian Lillard Returns to Portland Trail Blazers in Emotional $42M Reunion
In a move that has sent waves of excitement through Rip City, nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard is finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract to return to the Portland Trail Blazers, the franchise where he became a legend. The deal, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season and a no-trade clause, marks a storybook homecoming for the 35-year-old superstar who spent the first 11 seasons of his career with the Blazers.
Lillard’s return comes after a challenging two-year stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists in the 2024-25 season but faced setbacks, including a torn Achilles tendon suffered in the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers in April 2025. The injury, which required surgery in May, will likely sideline him for most or all of the 2025-26 season as he rehabilitates in Portland, where his family resides.
The reunion was fueled by mutual desire, with Lillard meeting multiple times with Blazers general manager Joe Cronin and head coach Chauncey Billups to mend past differences and align on a shared vision. Lillard’s deep connection to Portland, where he holds franchise records for points (19,376) and 3-pointers (2,387), made the decision to return a natural fit. His iconic “Dame Time” moments, including a 2014 buzzer-beater against Houston and a 37-foot game-winner against Oklahoma City in 2019, remain etched in Blazers history.
For the Trail Blazers, Lillard’s return adds a veteran presence to a young roster featuring Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and recently acquired Jrue Holiday. While Portland is not yet a championship contender, finishing last season at 36 wins, Lillard’s leadership could guide the team’s rebuild. However, his fit in a crowded backcourt and his recovery from a serious injury raise questions about his on-court role when he returns, potentially in 2026-27.
Fans have greeted the news with overwhelming enthusiasm, with social media posts celebrating the return of a player who embodied Portland’s underdog spirit. Lillard himself announced the deal on Instagram, sharing a video panning through the Blazers’ locker room, ending with his nameplate and the words “Together Again.” Oregon Senator Ron Wyden summed up the sentiment, posting, “It’s about Dame Time.”
As Lillard prepares to rehab under the Blazers’ medical staff, this homecoming is as much about legacy as it is about basketball. Whether he returns to his All-Star form or serves as a mentor, Lillard’s journey back to Portland is a testament to his enduring bond with the city and its fans.
Why This Matters for Fans:
Lillard’s return comes after a challenging two-year stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists in the 2024-25 season but faced setbacks, including a torn Achilles tendon suffered in the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers in April 2025. The injury, which required surgery in May, will likely sideline him for most or all of the 2025-26 season as he rehabilitates in Portland, where his family resides.
The reunion was fueled by mutual desire, with Lillard meeting multiple times with Blazers general manager Joe Cronin and head coach Chauncey Billups to mend past differences and align on a shared vision. Lillard’s deep connection to Portland, where he holds franchise records for points (19,376) and 3-pointers (2,387), made the decision to return a natural fit. His iconic “Dame Time” moments, including a 2014 buzzer-beater against Houston and a 37-foot game-winner against Oklahoma City in 2019, remain etched in Blazers history.
For the Trail Blazers, Lillard’s return adds a veteran presence to a young roster featuring Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and recently acquired Jrue Holiday. While Portland is not yet a championship contender, finishing last season at 36 wins, Lillard’s leadership could guide the team’s rebuild. However, his fit in a crowded backcourt and his recovery from a serious injury raise questions about his on-court role when he returns, potentially in 2026-27.
Fans have greeted the news with overwhelming enthusiasm, with social media posts celebrating the return of a player who embodied Portland’s underdog spirit. Lillard himself announced the deal on Instagram, sharing a video panning through the Blazers’ locker room, ending with his nameplate and the words “Together Again.” Oregon Senator Ron Wyden summed up the sentiment, posting, “It’s about Dame Time.”
As Lillard prepares to rehab under the Blazers’ medical staff, this homecoming is as much about legacy as it is about basketball. Whether he returns to his All-Star form or serves as a mentor, Lillard’s journey back to Portland is a testament to his enduring bond with the city and its fans.
Why This Matters for Fans:
- Emotional Reunion: Lillard’s return heals the wounds of his 2023 trade request, bringing back a beloved figure who defined a franchise era.
- On-Court Impact: While his Achilles recovery is uncertain, Lillard’s scoring prowess and leadership could elevate Portland’s young core.
- Rip City Revival: With the Blazers up for sale, Lillard’s presence may signal a commitment to keeping the team in Portland.
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