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Lillard Sidelined: Blazers Navigate Playoffs Without Star
20 Apr
Summary
- Damian Lillard is sidelined for the entire 2025-26 season.
- He suffered an Achilles tear during the 2025 playoffs.
- The Blazers are competing in the current playoffs with Lillard as a mentor.
Damian Lillard will not play during the 2025-26 NBA season, a decision made official after he tore his Achilles in the 2025 playoffs. The injury, while potentially recoverable within a year, prompted the Trail Blazers to have Lillard take the full season off due to his age.
Lillard was acquired by the Trail Blazers in the offseason from the Milwaukee Bucks. He is expected to remain with the team for the upcoming season, with hopes of concluding his Portland career on a high note.
Currently, Lillard is serving as a mentor from the sidelines as the Trail Blazers compete in the 2025 playoffs. The team has reportedly grown and developed significantly in his absence, with rising star Deni Avdija leading the charge. Portland anticipates Lillard's sideline leadership may contribute to a surprising performance in the 2026 playoffs.
