In the 2025 NBA Playoffs, superstar point guard Damian Lillard suffered one of the most significant injuries of his career — a torn left Achilles tendon — which has kept him off the court and prompted questions from fans and analysts about his recovery timeline and future.
The Injury That Changed Everything
Lillard’s injury occurred on April 27, 2025, during the first round of the NBA postseason when he was playing for the Milwaukee Bucks. The veteran guard attempted to play through a calf issue but ultimately suffered a torn left Achilles, which required surgical repair and marked the end of his season.
Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult to come back from, especially for elite athletes who rely on quickness, strength, and stability. In Lillard’s case, that injury not only ended his 2024-25 campaign but also ruled him out for the entire 2025-26 NBA season.
Return to Portland: A Franchise Reunion
Shortly after his injury, Lillard was waived by the Bucks and reached a new three-year contract with the Portland Trail Blazers — the franchise where he became a nine-time All-Star and one of the greatest players in team history.
Upon signing his deal in July 2025, Lillard expressed his joy at returning “home” to Portland, surrounded by fans and family. The Blazers welcomed back their former franchise cornerstone with open arms, with team officials highlighting his leadership and long-term vision as part of the club’s future.
Injury Update: Is Lillard Still Hurt?
As of February 2026, Lillard has not been medically cleared to return to competitive NBA action. He continues to rehabilitate the Achilles injury — a process that takes time, patience, and dedicated therapy. While Lillard is progressing well in his recovery, he is not currently playing in NBA games and is expecting to miss the entire 2025-26 season.
State Farm 3-Point Contest Appearance
Despite being sidelined, Lillard participated in the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend 3-Point Contest and even won the trophy, proving that his shooting mechanics and confidence remain elite even while rehabbing.
This appearance showed that while he isn’t ready for full-speed NBA play, his range and rhythm are returning — an encouraging sign for fans hoping to see him back in uniform next season.
Timeline & Outlook
Most NBA medical analysts believe that Achilles tendon rehab typically takes around 10–12 months, often longer for star players who must regain full strength and explosiveness. For Lillard, that places a possible return closer to the start of the 2026-27 NBA season.
At age 35, recovery from such a major injury is challenging but not unprecedented. Increasing advances in sports medicine have helped professional athletes return to high performance after similar setbacks. Still, the timing and effectiveness of Lillard’s comeback will depend on his rehab progress and the Blazers’ cautious approach.
Impact on the Trail Blazers
While Lillard rehabs, the Blazers have leaned on younger talents and adjusted rotations throughout the 2025-26 season. His role has shifted off the court into leadership, mentorship, and team guidance, where he’s helping shape Portland’s young core while building chemistry for the future.
Final Verdict: Still Injured — But Progressing
To summarize:
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Injury: Torn left Achilles tendon in April 2025.
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Current status: Still rehabbing and unable to play regular season NBA games in 2025-26.
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Milestones: Won the 2026 All-Star 3-Point Contest while injured.
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Return outlook: Likely aiming for the 2026-27 NBA season if recovery continues positively.
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Team role: Serving as a mentor and leader in Portland.
Damian Lillard’s journey back from injury is far from over, but the signs are promising. Blazers fans will be watching closely as he continues his recovery with hopes of seeing him back in Rip City next season.
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