Damian Lillard is back in Portland. The nine-time NBA All-Star has signed a new three-year contract.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Lillard agreed to a $42 million deal with the Trail Blazers. The contract includes a player option for the 2027–28 season and a full no-trade clause.
Lillard’s No-Trade Clause Makes NBA History
It has been reported that only LeBron James, now with the Los Angeles Lakers, shares the same level of security with a true no-trade clause. Lillard’s contract, finalised this week, makes him one of the very few NBA stars with this privilege. Previously, Bradley Beal had such a clause before agreeing to a buyout with the Phoenix Suns earlier in the week.
This decision demonstrates the Trail Blazers’ long-term commitment to their veteran leader. It also reaffirms Lillard’s loyalty to the city and team he called home for over a decade.
A Reunion Months in the Making
Sources told ESPN that both Lillard and the Trail Blazers wanted to make this reunion happen. The two parties held multiple meetings recently. These included general manager Joe Cronin, head coach Chauncey Billups and Lillard himself.
Each discussion focused on rebuilding trust and aligning their future goals. Lillard has always been vocal about his desire to retire in Portland. The franchise sees value in his leadership, especially as they transition to a new generation of players.
Although Lillard had other offers, including mid-level exception and minimum deals from contending teams, his heart remained in Portland. The combination of family, familiarity and unfinished business won out.
From Milwaukee to Recovery in Portland
Earlier this month, the Milwaukee Bucks waived Lillard. The team also stretched the remaining $113 million of his deal. This allowed them to make room for free agent centre Myles Turner.
Despite the exit, Lillard’s salary for the 2025–26 season is still substantial. He will earn $70 million between his old Milwaukee contract and this new Portland deal. Over the next two seasons, he is projected to earn $141 million, per ESPN’s reporting.
Lillard is currently recovering from a left Achilles tear, suffered in April during the Bucks’ playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. He underwent surgery in early May and is expected to use the 2025–26 season to fully recover.
Complex Web of Trades Leads Back to Lillard
Lillard was initially traded by Portland to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023. That deal sent Jrue Holiday, Toumani Camara and various assets to the Blazers. Shortly thereafter, Holiday was flipped to the Boston Celtics. Portland acquired Robert Williams III, Malcolm Brogdon, and more assets — including the pick that eventually led to Deni Avdija.
Ironically, Portland now holds both Lillard and Holiday again. The Blazers re-acquired Holiday from Boston during this offseason, creating an intriguing reunion. Alongside Williams, Avdija, Camara, a 2029 first-round pick, and two Bucks pick swaps, Portland’s asset pool has grown.
This complex trade history now forms the core of the Blazers’ rebuild. It also positions the team with both veteran experience and young talent.
A Team on the Rise
Although they missed the playoffs last season, the Trail Blazers ended on a positive note. Portland posted a 22–18 record over the final stretch. According to ESPN Research, they finished in the NBA’s top five for overall defence during that period. They also ranked third in transition defence.
This gives the team hope heading into the future. Lillard’s return brings not just on-court skill but also off-court leadership. While he may not play during the 2025–26 season, his presence will still be crucial.
Blazers fans are optimistic. The blend of young talent and experienced veterans gives the side potential. With proper management and injury recovery, Portland could become a force once again.
Lillard’s Lasting Legacy in Portland
Over his 11 seasons with the Trail Blazers, Lillard achieved greatness. He made seven All-NBA teams and seven All-Star appearances. The team reached the playoffs eight times with him, including a Western Conference Finals run in 2018–19.
Lillard leads the franchise in points (19,376) and three-pointers (2,387). He ranks second in assists (5,151). His scoring feats include seven 55-point games — no other Trail Blazer has recorded even one.
These numbers confirm his place as a Portland legend. They also justify the franchise’s decision to keep him around during a rebuild.
Online Sports Betting and Fan Interest
Lillard’s return is expected to spark fan excitement and draw eyes to Portland’s games again. It could also have an impact on online sports betting markets. Bettors will closely watch Portland’s performance, especially when Lillard eventually returns to full fitness.
With the Trail Blazers’ improving defensive numbers and growing talent pool, analysts may begin to reconsider their betting odds. Lillard’s influence on and off the court should not be underestimated.
Final Thoughts
Damian Lillard’s comeback to Portland is more than a contract. It’s a commitment to community, legacy and unfinished business. The Trail Blazers are banking on that passion to guide them forward.
While many thought Lillard’s time in Portland (5.77) was over, this dramatic return proves otherwise. If his recovery goes as planned, fans may yet witness a late-career resurgence. With leadership, loyalty and a deep connection to the city, Lillard’s story in Portland is far from done.
