Damian Lillard’s 2025 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. From earning his ninth All-Star selection to a devastating Achilles injury and being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard's journey has captivated NBA fans and left the league wondering: what’s next for one of its most electrifying stars?
🏀 A New Chapter Begins in Milwaukee
After spending over a decade as the face of the Portland Trail Blazers, Lillard was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2024. The move, designed to pair him with Giannis Antetokounmpo and make a deep playoff run, quickly turned heads. Despite a few early adjustments, Lillard settled in and began delivering classic "Dame Time" performances.
In the first half of the season, he averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, while shooting 44.8% from the field and 37.6% from three. His chemistry with Giannis began to develop, and Milwaukee emerged as a strong contender in the Eastern Conference.
⭐ All-Star Recognition
Lillard’s consistent play earned him his ninth NBA All-Star selection in 2025. He was named a reserve for the Eastern Conference and celebrated the honor with a dominant performance leading up to the break. One notable game saw him rack up 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists with zero turnovers—classic Lillard efficiency.
⚠️ Health Setbacks: A Season Derailed
As the Bucks pushed toward the playoffs, disaster struck. In March, Lillard was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right calf—a serious condition requiring him to be placed on blood thinners and sidelined indefinitely. Just as he was cleared to return in limited fashion in April, Lillard suffered a devastating Achilles tendon tear during the first round of the playoffs.
The injury was a brutal blow. It not only ended his season but also cast doubt on his availability for most, if not all, of the 2025–26 season.
💸 The Waiver Shock: Bucks Part Ways
On July 1, 2025, the Bucks made a controversial move: they waived Lillard using the stretch provision. This allowed Milwaukee to spread the remaining $113 million of his contract over five years to create cap space. The move cleared room to sign center Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal.
Reports suggested the decision did not sit well with Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had advocated for Lillard’s acquisition. League insiders noted visible friction between Giannis and the Bucks’ front office following the news.
🧠 Legacy at a Crossroads
Now a free agent and recovering from a career-threatening injury, Lillard’s future is uncertain. While his leadership, playoff pedigree, and scoring prowess are unquestioned, the timeline and extent of his recovery will play a major role in determining his next destination.
Fans are left wondering:
Will he sign with a contender looking for veteran leadership?
Will he return to Portland for a swan song?
Or could this injury force an early exit from the game?
✍️ Final Thoughts
Damian Lillard's 2025 season was meant to be his championship-chasing chapter with Milwaukee. Instead, it became a story of perseverance, health battles, and business decisions. His departure from the Bucks may mark the end of an era—or the start of a redemptive comeback.
Whatever the case, basketball fans everywhere will be watching. Because no matter where he goes next, Dame Time isn’t done yet.
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