Damian Lillard Finalizing Contract to Return to Portland Trail Blazers

Grant AfsethJuly 17, 2025July 17, 2025no comment

Photo via Milwaukee Bucks

Damian Lillard and the Portland Trail Blazers are finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract that would bring the franchise icon back home, according to ESPN. The deal is expected to include a player option for the 2027–28 season and a no-trade clause, setting up a storybook reunion for the nine-time All-Star.

Lillard met with Trail Blazers officials this week in Las Vegas, according to multiple league sources, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported. The seven-time All-Star became a free agent earlier this month after the Milwaukee Bucks waived him to clear salary cap space.

Lillard played for the Bucks during the 2023–24 season and was a key offensive contributor. He appeared in 73 games, averaging 25.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting 43.9% from the field and 35.4% from three-point range. He also led the league in free-throw percentage at 92.0%. In the 2024 NBA Playoffs, Lillard elevated his performance, averaging 31.3 points, 5.0 assists, and 3.3 rebounds in a standout series against the Indiana Pacers.

While Lillard is not expected to be available at the start of the 2025–26 season, Portland has reportedly offered him the chance to rehab under the supervision of its medical staff. The agreement would not guarantee playing time, but both sides view it as a meaningful opportunity to reconnect.

Lillard spent 11 seasons with the Blazers and remains the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. His return could also provide leadership for Portland’s young backcourt, including guards Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.

Both parties are said to be open to the possibility of a midseason move to a contender if Damian Lillard’s rehab progresses and the timing aligns. A return would bring back a familiar face to guide a new generation — and offer fans a meaningful bridge between eras.

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Grant Afseth

Senior Writer

Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.

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