The Portland Trail Blazers have not dismissed the possibility of guard Damian Lillard rejoining the lineup during the current postseason, multiple sources told Bill Oram of The Oregonian.
Lillard, 34, has been sidelined since tearing his left Achilles tendon in April of last year and has not appeared in a game this season. One source described the seven-time All-Star as “close,” while cautioning that any return would hinge on how long Portland remains alive in the playoffs. The Blazers trail the San Antonio Spurs 2–1 in their first-round series.
Offseason plans may include Giannis pursuit
Oram’s report also indicates Portland is preparing to pursue Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo when the offseason begins. Lillard and Antetokounmpo were teammates in Milwaukee for two seasons and are believed to maintain a strong relationship.
Lillard is under contract at approximately $14 million per year, a figure viewed by league observers as team-friendly for a player of his caliber. That salary slot could give Portland additional flexibility to make a major offer should Antetokounmpo become open to an extension or potential move.
While nothing is guaranteed, the Blazers are expected to explore multiple roster upgrades. Antetokounmpo is considered a primary target if he signals an openness to leaving Milwaukee.
The deeper Portland advances this spring, the greater the chances Lillard could suit up—and the louder the speculation will grow about a possible reunion with Antetokounmpo in the months ahead.
Source: Hoops Wire
