Damian Lillard is preparing to return to the Portland Trail Blazers lineup for the 2026-27 season after sitting out all of 2025-26 while recovering from a torn left Achilles. The veteran guard posted on X on August 25 recalling how his high school coach once doubted he would make an NBA roster, a story that now feels surreal given his nine All-Star appearances and impending comeback. Last result: San Antonio Spurs 114-95 Portland Trail Blazers (2026-04-29). Recent form shows the Blazers lost their last five games entering the offseason.
What motivated Lillard through early doubts?
Lillard said his sophomore coach at St Joseph Notre Dame broke down the odds of reaching the NBA and told him he likely would not make the team the following year. Lillard recalled responding with confidence and the coach smiling in disbelief. That exchange fueled his belief he would succeed despite limited playing time early on. He later transferred to Oakland High before excelling at Weber State and earning the No 6 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft by Portland.
Why does his return matter for the Blazers?
Lillard rejoined Portland in July 2025 on a three-year $42 million deal after being waived by Milwaukee. His return coincides with a revamped roster featuring Deni Avdija Jrue Holiday and Ja Morant. At 36 he faces questions about his explosiveness post-surgery and how minutes will be allocated in a crowded backcourt. The Blazers opened their 2026-27 schedule on October 21 at the Moda Center against the Phoenix Suns offering Lillard a chance to play his first regular season game in a Blazers uniform since 2023.
What comes next for Lillard and Portland?
NBA.com listed Lillard among prominent players expected to return during the 2026-27 season. His availability will depend on how he responds to training camp and preseason workload after Achilles surgery. Fans can track his progress and team developments through our [stats](/stats) and [injuries](/injuries) pages. The Blazers will need to balance his veteran leadership with the development of younger guards while navigating a competitive Western Conference landscape.
