After parting ways with the Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard has officially made his way back to the city where his NBA journey began—Portland. Despite receiving multiple offers from various teams, the seven-time All-Star decided to rejoin the Portland Trail Blazers, citing emotional connection and personal peace as his primary reasons for the move.
“I’m truly happy and incredibly grateful for this opportunity. It means so much to me, not just to play for this organization again but to be back in the community that shaped who I am,” Lillard said during his re-introduction ceremony.
Portland: More Than Just a Team, It’s Home
Portland has always held a special place in Lillard’s heart. After bеіng selected ѕіxth оvеrаll in the 2012 NBA Draft, he spent thе fіrѕt 12 years of his саrееr wіth the Blаzеrѕ. The city became more than a professional setting—it became home. His children were raised there, and his entire family is rooted in the Portland community. That support network, especially during difficult times like his recent Achilles injury, played a major role in his decision to return.
On Monday, July 21, at a press conference held at the Moda Center, Lillard was officially reintroduced as a Trail Blazer. Flanked by head coach Chauncey Billups and general manager Joe Cronin, Lillard signed a three-year deal worth $42 million. Interestingly, the Bucks will continue to pay the remainder of his previous contract—$103 million over five years—as part of a structured buyout.
“This is where I belong. I’ll be raising my kids here, walking the same streets I’ve known for most of my life, and playing for the team that helped define my career. I didn’t expect it to happen this quickly, but I’m thankful,” Lillard reflected.
A Rocky Road: From Trade Drama to Injury Setbacks
Lillard’s original departure from Portland in 2023 wasn’t without drama. After voicing frustration over the franchise’s lack of clear direction, he requested a trade. Although Miami Heat was his preferred destination, negotiations between the two teams stalled. Eventually, the Blazers orchestrated a three-team deal involving the Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns, sending Lillard to the Bucks and receiving a package that included Jrue Holiday—who was later traded to the Boston Celtics.
During his two seasons with Milwaukee, Lillard played 131 games, averaging 24.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 7 assists per game. Despite his individual performance, the Bucks struggled to make deep playoff runs, exiting in the first round both years.
Then came a devastating blow. In Game 4 of the playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, Lillard suffered a torn Achilles tendon. The injury is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the 2025–2026 season.
“Like Joe [Cronin] said, the most important thing now is to take all the time I need to heal fully. That’s exactly what I plan to do,” said the 35-year-old guard, underscoring his focus on long-term recovery over rushing back to the court.
Looking Ahead: Leadership, Legacy, and a Fresh Start
Even though he may not be ready to play immediately, Lillard’s return signals a new chapter for both himself and the Trail Blazers. His presence—on and off the court—brings invaluable leadership to a team filled with young talent. As he works through his rehab process, Lillard is expected to serve as a mentor, role model, and stabilizing figure in the Blazers’ locker room.
For Portland fans, the return of their longtime franchise cornerstone is more than just a signing—it’s a restoration of identity, heart, and hope. Lillard’s loyalty and love for the city have never wavered, and now, the city gets to witness the final chapters of his storied career where it all began.
ALSO READ :
