Damian Lillard is not rushing into a decision on his NBA future following the news that the Milwaukee Bucks are planning to waive him.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Lillard is open to signing with another team during the 2025 offseason – “if the terms and conditions are right” – but is taking a patient, deliberate approach.
The player recently suffered a torn Achilles in late April and will be sidelined for an extended period as he begins the long road to recovery.
Despite the injury, Haynes reports that there has been “ample” interest from around the league, with at least 10 teams reaching out to express interest in bringing in the nine-time All-Star.
The Bucks have not yet officially placed Lillard on waivers, though that move is expected in the coming days.
With the NBA’s moratorium on trades and free agent signings set to lift at 11:00 a.m. CT on Sunday, Milwaukee is likely waiting to formally make the move as they finalize their deal with center Myles Turner.
Waiving the shooting guard will clear the cap space needed to complete that transaction.
Lillard’s agent, Aaron Goodwin, framed the development in an optimistic light, calling it an “incredible opportunity” for the longtime Blazers star.
While Lillard will no longer suit up for the Bucks, Milwaukee will still be responsible for paying the remaining $112.6 million on his contract as he recovers from the Achilles injury.
According to reporting from ESPN’s Marc J. Spears, the Celtics, Lakers, and Warriors are among the teams showing serious interest.
Spears noted that there’s “speculation” Lillard might be able to return by the 2026 All-Star break.
However, considering the typical timeline for Achilles injuries, often at least 12 months, such a comeback window would be considered optimistic, especially for a player approaching his 35th birthday in July.
Adding to the complexity is Lillard’s preference to rehabilitate his injury in Portland to be close to his family.
That decision could affect how integrated he is with whichever team he ultimately signs with, especially if he chooses to stay away from the day-to-day routine during the early part of the season.
Even with the uncertainty surrounding his return, Lillard’s reputation, leadership, and elite scoring ability make him a high-value long-term asset.
Teams willing to invest a roster spot in him for the 2025–26 campaign would not only be banking on a return to form but also positioning themselves as a future contender when Lillard is fully healthy again.
While his future team is still unknown, one thing is clear: despite a serious injury and an unexpected waiver, Damian Lillard’s next chapter in the NBA is already generating significant interest across the league.
Lillard Open To Signing This Offseason, Won't Rush Decision https://t.co/QnsOKCWx3u pic.twitter.com/aqcLekSqMU
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 4, 2025
