Damian Lillard‘s commerce to the Milwaukee Bucks got here as a shock to followers across the NBA.
Many anticipated him to stick with the Portland Path Blazers all through his profession, because it appeared like he liked the group and had no plans of leaving.
Nonetheless, the Path Blazers believed it was of their greatest curiosity to commerce him, getting three gamers in return, in addition to a first-round draft decide.
Lillard made a terrific influence on the Bucks when he was wholesome, however he had issues staying on the courtroom.
With that in thoughts, the Bucks determined to half with Lillard, which made him a free agent.
He determined to return to the Path Blazers, which might find yourself being the very best final result for all concerned.
Analyst Amin Elhassan just lately talked about Lillard’s return, highlighting how a lot it means to the Path Blazers’ group.
“That is maybe the one state of affairs within the league that may say, ‘We want Damian Lillard, proper now, this 12 months,’” Elhassan stated, through SiriusXM NBA Radio.
“That is maybe the one state of affairs within the league that may say ‘We want Damian Lillard, proper now, this 12 months.’”@DarthAmin tells @TheJaxShow why Lillard returning to Portland is the right match. pic.twitter.com/7Koie8zUYm
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) July 20, 2025
Elhassan not solely talked about Lillard’s influence when he’s on the courtroom however added how helpful he’s within the locker room as a veteran chief.
The Path Blazers’ outlook heading into the 2025-26 NBA season wasn’t all that optimistic earlier than re-signing Lillard, however they appear to have new life and pleasure, though he will probably be recovering from an Achilles harm.
But, he can nonetheless be a mentor to the younger gamers within the group, together with Scoot Henderson, Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen.
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