Damian Lillard's Emotional Return to Portland After Injury and Release
So here we are, talking about something that not too long ago seemed almost unthinkable—Damian Lillard, the heart and soul of Rip City, is headed back to Portland. Yes, you heard that right. After being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks at the start of free agency, Dame is finalizing a three-year, $42 million deal to return to the Trail Blazers, according to multiple reports. This comes just months after he suffered a devastating Achilles tear in the playoffs, a brutal ending to a season already riddled with injuries.
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Let’s rewind for a second. Lillard’s stint with the Bucks was supposed to be his shot at chasing a championship. But the season didn’t go according to plan. He was limited to just 58 games due to a laundry list of injuries—hamstring, groin, and even a blood clot in his calf. Still, when he was on the court, he was producing. The numbers speak for themselves: 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, 4.7 rebounds per game. Classic Dame. Then came the playoffs. Just when we thought he might be back, he goes down again—this time, a torn Achilles in Game 4 against the Pacers. And just like that, his season—and perhaps his time in Milwaukee—was over.
The Bucks, facing a long rehab timeline and a massive salary burden, made the tough call to waive him. But here's the part that hits you in the feels—Lillard is returning to the team that drafted him, the franchise where he became a nine-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, and perennial fan favorite. Portland GM Joe Cronin and head coach Chauncey Billups reportedly had several meetings with Dame, making it clear that the door was open for a return.
Even at 34 and coming off a serious injury, Lillard is not done. You can feel the chip on his shoulder. He knows people are doubting whether he can still be that guy. But anyone who's followed Lillard’s career knows—he thrives in these moments. He’s not just coming back to Portland to ride into the sunset; he’s coming back to prove something, to remind everyone who he is. And let’s be real, if anyone can bounce back and still deliver jaw-dropping performances, it’s Dame Time.
It’s still unclear exactly when he’ll be back on the court. Achilles injuries are no joke, especially at this stage in a player's career. But Portland fans should be hopeful. If nothing else, this reunion brings a sense of identity and heart back to the franchise. It’s not just about stats or wins right now—it’s about legacy, loyalty, and redemption.
So yeah, Damian Lillard is back in a Blazers jersey. And honestly, that just feels right.
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