The little-known reason why Damian Lillard pushed for Portland return

After two years away, Damian Lillard is set to return to the Portland Trail Blazers for what could be the final years of his stellar NBA career.

Lillard was drafted by the Trail Blazers in 2012 and he was a transformative addition for the team, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. In September 2023 he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks but after being waived earlier this month, Lillard is expected to return to Portland.

ESPN reports that Lillard has agreed a three-year deal worth $42 million with Portland. There is a player option for 2027/28 and a no-trade clause, the report continues.

Earlier this year Lillard tore his Achilles during Game 4 of Milwaukee’s first round playoff loss to the Indiana Pacers. He underwent surgery in May and is expected to be out for the entirety of the 2025/26 season. However he was eager to return to Portland now, for one big reason.

Lillard’s family, with three children, still live in Portland and he is reportedly eager to move back to be closer to them.

The point guard recently turned 35 but there is still plenty of evidence to suggest that he can be a real contributor with the Trail Blazers when he is fit to return. Last season he averaged 24.9 points per game with the Bucks, only marginally lower than his NBA career average of 25.1.

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