Iconic NBA names chasing Lillard: These are the star’s possible next destinations
Point guard Damian Lillard, who has been sidelined by a ruptured Achilles tendon, has parted company with the Milwaukee Bucks.
The news of Damian Lillard’s exit from the Milwaukee Bucks continues to reverberate across the NBA landscape.
The nine-time All-Star had $113 million remaining on his contract but is now sidelined indefinitely after suffering a torn Achilles tendon during Milwaukee’s first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.
In response, the Bucks moved quickly to fill the void left by the point guard, signing free agent center Myles Turner - formerly of the Pacers - to a four-year, $107 million deal.
Which teams are interested in Lillard?
Milwaukee originally acquired Lillard in a blockbuster three-team trade in 2023 involving the Portland Trail Blazers and the Phoenix Suns. The deal also included Jrue Holiday and Deandre Ayton switching teams.
Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds over 58 games during the 2024-25 season, making him a highly attractive option for a host of apparent suitors.
According to The Athletic, the three most successful franchises in NBA history are all eyeing the star.
“League sources say Lillard received calls from several contending teams quickly after the news of his Bucks’ ending broke,” reveal The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, Sam Amick and Joe Vardon. “League sources say the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers are known to be among the many teams that would have interest in doing a deal sooner rather than later.”
The Athletic adds that Lillard faces a pivotal decision: sign with a new team immediately and begin his rehabilitation under their supervision, or wait until he has returned to fitness before making a call on his next move.
The Warriors, Celtics and Lakers are among the teams that have interest in doing a deal with Damian Lillard sooner rather than later, sources tell @eric_nehm, @sam_amick and @joevardon.
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) July 2, 2025
Lillard received calls from several contending teams quickly after the news of his Bucks’… pic.twitter.com/YuonUE0mEF
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