Damian Lillard Strikes Deal to Return to Trail Blazers on Three-Year, $42 Million Contract
In a blockbuster move filled with nostalgia and emotion, nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard is set to return to the Portland Trail Blazers, agreeing to a three-year deal worth $42 million, with a player option for the final year and a rare no‑trade clause in place.
Back to Rip City
Lillard, who was drafted 6th overall by Portland in 2012, spent 11 iconic seasons as the franchise’s leading scorer and all‑time three-point leader. After requesting a trade in 2023, he was dealt to the Milwaukee Bucks but struggled to mesh with Giannis Antetokounmpo and grappled with being far from his family in Portland.
Now, following a torn Achilles tendon in April’s playoffs and a subsequent waiver by Milwaukee—who stretched the remaining $113 million of his previous contract—Lillard has decided to reunite with Portland to continue his rehabilitation and be close to loved ones.
The Deal
- Duration: 3 years (2025–28)
- Value: $42 million
- Structure: Player option for 2027–28, full no‑trade clause
- Contract Benefits: While Milwaukee will continue to pay $22.5 million of his previous salary via the stretch provision, Portland’s deal reduces Milwaukee’s cap hit to around $20.2 million through 2029–30 thanks to the set‑off.
Future Outlook
Lillard is expected to spend much of the 2025–26 season recovering, but his return brings veteran leadership to a young Blazers squad that includes Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, Robert Williams III, and top draft picks.
What It Means
- For Lillard: A chance to rehab at home, resume his legacy in Portland, and close out his career as a beloved franchise icon.
- For Trail Blazers: The acquisition revitalises fan excitement and media attention, bolsters marketing, and provides mentorship—even if playoff contention remains a future goal .
- For Bucks: Financial relief through a salary set‑off, freeing up cap flexibility for future roster moves.
Key Stats & Highlights
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Age | 35 |
| Portland Legacy | All‑time leading scorer (19,376 pts), 7× All‑Star, led Blazers to 2019 WCF |
| Bucks Departure | Waived after Achilles injury (Apr 2025), $113M remaining stretched over 5 years |
| Contract Structures | 3 years, $42M, player option, no‑trade clause |
What’s Next
Lillard will skip the 2025–26 season to focus on recovery, with Portland gearing up for a possible on-court return in 2026–27. Meanwhile, analysts will watch how his presence influences both team performance and player development. Whether this marks a sentimental finale or sets the stage for one last competitive push, “Dame Time” is back at Rip City.