The Portland Trail Blazers are sending an important message about the upcoming 2025-26 season: It is going to be their last one as a rebuilding team.
This was somewhat implied when they reunited with 35-year-old Damian Lillard. He won’t play this year as he recovers from an Achilles injury and will instead serve as a mentor. But he isn’t someone Portland brings back if it’s not planning to fast-track the timeline prior to his return.
All of that is nevertheless akin to reading between the lines. Now, though, we have somewhat-official confirmation. Keith Smith of Spotrac spoke with a Blazers front office member while attending Las Vegas Summer League, and the exec’s comments on the heels of Lillard’s arrival are illuminating.