ESPN.com · Jul 17, 2025
Sources: Damian Lillard finalizing deal to return to Trail Blazers
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Nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard is finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract to return to the Portland Trail Blazers, sources told ESPN on Thursday.
Lillard's deal is expected to include a player option in 2027-28 and a no-trade clause.
Lillard and the Trail Blazers both deeply cared about the comeback in recent weeks -- with multiple meetings among the Portland franchise icon, general manager Joe Cronin and head coach Chauncey Billups to bond together and move forward united on a new deal, sources said.
The Milwaukee Bucks waived Lillard, 35, earlier this month and stretched the remaining $113 million on his contract in order to sign free agent center Myles Turner.