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10h ago

Damian Lillard Returns to Trail Blazers as Player-Coach on Three-Year, $42 Million Deal

Portland’s training staff will oversee his Achilles rehab under a no-trade clause, opt-out provision

Apr 22, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) during game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn
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Damian Lillard signed a three-year deal to return to Portland.
Longtime Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard is returning home after two seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Overview

  • Lillard signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Trail Blazers that includes a no-trade clause and an opt-out after two seasons.
  • The nine-time All-Star tore his left Achilles tendon in April’s playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, requiring surgery that is expected to sideline him for most of the 2025–26 season.
  • Coach Chauncey Billups announced Lillard will serve as the highest-paid assistant coach in NBA history during his rehab, focusing on daily mentorship of Portland’s young core.
  • Lillard expressed deep gratitude for returning home alongside his three children and celebrated the chance to reconnect with Portland’s community.
  • He credited the mental resilience fostered by advice from peers such as Aaron Rodgers, Kevin Durant and Rudy Gay in his recovery journey.