Damian Lillard provided the clearest update yet on his comeback timeline, confirming he expects to return at the start of next season.
Speaking with iShowSpeed, the Portland Trail Blazers guard was asked when fans could expect to see him back on the court. “Probably start of next season,” Lillard said, before adding, “That Achilles, you can’t f––k around with that.”
The 35-year-old veteran tore his Achilles on April 27 while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks in the playoffs against Indiana. Weeks later, the Bucks waived him, stretching the final $103 million left on his contract.
In July, Lillard signed a three-year, $42 million deal to return to Portland, rejoining the franchise where he played his first 11 seasons and became the face of the team.
Lillard has been consistent in his message since the injury. Appearing on The Sideline with Andy Katz, he emphasized that he is determined to return as the same player he has always been. “I’m not returning as a shell of myself. I plan to return to be myself,” he said.
The eight-time All-Star also addressed the growing trend of Achilles injuries across the NBA. He pointed to the speed of today’s game and the demands placed on athletes as possible factors. “The game is getting super fast and you dealing with like extremely high-level athletes,” Lillard explained.
He added that training, travel, and constant directional changes put significant strain on players’ bodies. “All of those things, plus changing direction and stopping at the level we compete at, it’s hard on your body,” he said.
Despite the setback, Lillard’s track record suggests he will remain a vital presence in Portland’s locker room. He averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists last season in Milwaukee, and just two years ago, he led the league with 32.2 points per game.
