Is Blazers’ Damian Lillard returning for Game 4 vs. Spurs?

As Deni Avdija put it, the Portland Trail Blazers were punched back in Game 3 of their first-round series against the San Antonio Spurs, that too in the absence of Victor Wembanyama, who sat out due to concussion protocol. Now, Game 4 will be played in Portland before the series moves to San Antonio once again, providing the Blazers another major chance to stretch the series.

However, despite rumors that Damian Lillard may be inching closer to a return, Portland will have to face the Spurs without him once again. Dame has been listed as out on the official injury report due to his left Achilles tendon injury.

He is the only player who the Blazers have listed, with San Antonio still putting Wemby down as doubtful. He joins Jordan McLaughlin, also listed as questionable due to a left ankle sprain.
Here’s everything we know about Damian Lillard’s injury and his playing status vs. the Spurs.

Damian Lillard’s injury status vs. Spurs

Given Damian Lillard is officially ruled out on the injury report, he will not be playing in Game 4 against San Antonio. The nine-time All-Star has not appeared at all this season after suffering a torn Achilles nearly one year ago, and while there has been increasing discussion around a potential postseason return, that timeline does not extend to this series.

There have been internal indications that Lillard is “close” and continuing daily rehab work, but any realistic return scenario is tied to a deeper playoff run rather than an immediate appearance. Head coach Tiago Splitter reinforced that expectation, noting Lillard is progressing but “probably not” available for this matchup.

From a performance standpoint, Lillard’s absence continues to shape Portland’s offensive identity. Without him, the Blazers have leaned heavily on emerging contributors.

Scoot Henderson has been a primary scoring engine in the series, averaging 23.3 points on elite efficiency (57% FG, 52% from three), while Deni Avdija, an All-Star this season, has functioned as a central playmaking forward despite a difficult Game 3 shooting night (3-of-15 FG).

On the other side, San Antonio’s injury situation introduces its own variable. Victor Wembanyama is listed as questionable in concussion protocol, and his availability could significantly alter the matchup.

However, the Spurs pushed the Blazers back in Game 3 despite his absence, and will be looking to do something similar in Game 4 as well.

Trail Blazers injury report

Damian Lillard — Out (left Achilles tendon, injury management)

Spurs injury report

Victor Wembanyama — Questionable (concussion protocol)

Jordan McLaughlin — Questionable (left ankle sprain)

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