Damian Lillard is returning to the Portland Trail Blazers after being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, signing a three-year, $42 million deal. Originally drafted by Portland in 2012, Lillard is a seven-time All-Star who led the Blazers to the playoffs eight consecutive years, including a run to the 2019 Western Conference Finals. However, he is not expected to play in the 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury, but fans can anticipate his return to a revamped backcourt alongside Scoot Henderson, Jrue Holiday, and Shaedon Sharpe.

Isaiah Thomas shared his thoughts on Lillard's return, noting that a family member had predicted it. While Lillard's journey will be closely followed, Thomas's past stint with the Celtics and his current situation as a free agent adds an interesting layer to the narrative.