Damian Lillard's return to the Portland Trail Blazers was one of the most surprising developments of the entire offseason. Few expected the Milwaukee Bucks to waive and stretch Lillard, and even after they did, it wasn't guaranteed that he would decide to come back to Portland.
Everything aligned perfectly for the Blazers to get their franchise GOAT back just two years after trading him for a massive haul. Blazers fans are understandably thrilled to have Dame back, but there are two harsh realities of the situation worth mentioning: when he'll actually return from his Achilles tear and whether or not he'll be the same player after the injury.
Damian Lillard doesn't plan on playing this season
Lillard addressed the former issue at Blazers media day, when he was asked if there was a chance he'd play this upcoming season.
"I don't plan on it," Lillard answered. "I feel like if this team is a one seed, they probably got it. I'm trying to be as healthy as possible."
Throughout Lillard's rehab, he's stressed the importance of taking a patient approach and trying to come back full strength. He's wisely leaned on the advice of his trainers as well as players who have endured the same brutal injury.
"Don't try to be the guy who does it in record time. There's a lot you have to work through. It usually takes a little bit longer," Lillard said.
What version of Lillard will Portland get?
This shouldn't come as a surprise to Blazers fans, as Dame has been consistent about his return timeline. But the question surrounding Lillard isn't his timeline, but rather what player the Blazers will be getting when he comes back. Can Lillard return to form, and what will his role look like in Portland's offense?
Lillard is adamant about returning to 100%, and his work ethic and patient recovery approach could help make that a reality. Unfortunately, history doesn't favor that being the case. The most significant concern could be how this Achilles tear will impact his three-point shot, which made him such an explosive offensive weapon prior to injury.
One realistic option could be Lillard returning in a sixth-man role to start the 2026-27 season. Considering the low cost of acquiring him and the valuable mentorship he provides, that would still be an excellent outcome for Portland.
But with Lillard himself admitting that a return this season isn't in the cards, the Blazers will have a lot to sort out in their backcourt between now and then.