Portland, Oregon – Nearly two years after his blockbuster trade to Milwaukee, nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard is officially heading back to Rip City. The Portland Trail Blazers and Lillard agreed to terms on a three-year, $42 million deal that includes a player option for the 2027–28 season and notably, a coveted full no-trade clause .
A Bittersweet Homecoming
Lillard, 35, initially departed Portland in 2023 after seeking a team more aligned with his championship ambitions. The ensuing stint with the Milwaukee Bucks featured standout moments averaging 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds last season before a torn left Achilles tendon in April concluded his campaign early. Despite interest from contenders like Boston, Golden State, Miami, and L.A. during free agency, Lillard’s heart stayed in Portland. With his family rooted in the city and off-season life remaining there, the 35-year-old opted for a meaningful return over chasing rings.
Contract & Cap Implications
The contract’s structure allows Lillard to rehab his Achilles with the support of familiar Blazers medical staff, while still earning a combined $70 million in the 2025–26 season between Portland and his stretched Milwaukee contract. From Portland’s perspective, absorbing his moderate mid-level exception salary and sidestepping luxury tax penalties provides financial flexibility. The no-trade clause ensures stability and loyalty in a franchise once drawn into rebuild mode.
Blazers’ New-Look Roster
Lillard returns to a transformed roster featuring a promising young core with Scoot Henderson and Toumani Camara. Along with key veterans Jrue Holiday, Robert Williams III and Deni Avdija. That said, Lillard’s veteran presence could thrust the Blazers forward on the court, in marketing, and in locker room culture. For Lillard, this marks a storybook chapter. Rehabilitating at home and ending his illustrious career where it all started. In an NBA landscape where loyalty is rare, the return of Damian Lillard to Portland is more than just a signing, it’s a cultural moment. “Rip City”, it’s official, Dame is home again.
