Few (on-court) storylines are causing as much excitement this summer as the return of Damian Lillard for the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard was the face of the franchise from the time he was drafted in 2012 to the moment he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023. After a couple seasons and one bad leg injury, the Bucks bought out Lillard. The Blazers signed him to a mid-level exception contract in 2025, preparing the way for his rehab and return in Portland. The rehab phase is coming to a close.
The return is just around the corner.
We had an interesting question float through the Blazer’s Edge Mailbag this week about Lillard suiting up again. I’ll probably tackle that next week. But before I do, I want to solicit your opinion.
What role do you anticipate Dame playing when his sneakers hit the hardwood again. We know his claims and aspirations. According to the man himself, he’s as good as ever. But confidence is part of the toolkit of every great professional athlete. Do you think Lillard really will return at an NBA All-Star level? Will he start and play big minutes, even? How do you see this working out? How will the Blazers integrate him?
We know what Dame’s past looks like. What will his future hold, for real? Share your thoughts and analysis in the comments below.
