In a remarkable turn of events, Damian Lillard is officially returning to the Portland Trail Blazers after a two-year stint with the Milwaukee Bucks. Known for his incredible talent and leadership, Lillard has amassed numerous awards, franchise records, and unforgettable moments during his 11 seasons with the Blazers. Throughout his career, he often emphasized the significance of his journey, which involved forming genuine connections with everyone in the organization, from the practice facility security guard to the head of ticket sales.
For Lillard, Portland and the broader Pacific Northwest have always represented more than just a location. They embody a sense of community that values hard work and perseverance. Lillard appreciated the kinship he felt with fans who resonated with his underdog mentality. He cherished the city as a place where he could establish roots, raise a family, and contribute both on and off the court.
On Thursday, Lillard signed a three-year, $45 million contract to return to the Blazers, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season and a no-trade clause, as confirmed by a league source to The Athletic. However, he will not be available for the first year of the contract due to rehabilitation from surgery on his left Achilles tendon, an injury sustained during the Bucks’ playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.
Upon his return, Lillard expressed, “My relationship to the city, and the fans here, the organization… It’s never-ending. (Portland) is a huge part of my journey, an important part of my journey. And I will always appreciate that and I will always hold that close to me.” This sentiment highlights the deep bond he has with both the city and its fans.
Lillard announced his return in a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, panning through the Trail Blazers’ locker room and revealing that he had reclaimed his old locker. Interestingly, his locker is now situated next to third-year guard Scoot Henderson. Henderson was the third overall pick in the 2023 draft, a decision that initially prompted Lillard to request a trade, as he had hoped the Blazers would utilize the pick to bring in more established talent to help him chase a championship.
After leaving Portland, Lillard experienced feelings of betrayal from general manager Joe Cronin, who had spoken of building a competitive roster around him. Instead, key players like CJ McCollum, Norm Powell, and Josh Hart were traded away, leaving the team in a rebuilding phase. Lillard’s trade to the Miami Heat was anticipated but instead, he found himself with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he made playoff appearances in 2024 and 2025 but faced early exits.
The Blazers drafted Lillard sixth overall in 2012, and he quickly became a star, winning Rookie of the Year honors and earning seven All-Star selections during his time in Portland. He leaves the franchise as its all-time leader in points (19,376), three-pointers, and free throws. Additionally, Lillard ranks second in assists and third in games played, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in Trail Blazers history.
After two seasons in Milwaukee, Lillard made an impact as an All-Star, despite facing health challenges, including deep vein thrombosis. The emotional toll of being away from his children in Portland weighed heavily on him. Ultimately, the Bucks released Lillard to create financial flexibility, prompting the next chapter in his storied career. His recent video message from the Trail Blazers’ locker room concluded with a poignant message: "Together Again."
As Lillard prepares to return to the court with the Trail Blazers, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the next chapter of his remarkable journey, filled with hope, connection, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
