Damian Lillard unexpectedly entered the free agency market this summer after the Milwaukee Bucks executed a strategic waive-and-stretch move to create cap space for signing Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers. Although Lillard will miss the entire 2025-26 season recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in the first round of the 2025 playoffs, his status as a free agent continues to attract interest as he rehabs for the 2026-27 campaign.
Turning 35 soon, Lillard faces the challenge of returning from one of the most severe injuries for an athlete. Despite showing some decline, especially defensively, during his time with Milwaukee, he remains an All-Star caliber player known for his deadly pull-up three-pointer and elite pick-and-roll ball handling. Here’s a ranking of the seven best destinations for Damian Lillard in this NBA free agency period, based on fit and championship potential.
7. Miami Heat’s Missed Opportunity
When Lillard sought a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers, Miami was his preferred destination, but that move never materialized. Since then, the Heat have hovered around mediocrity, struggling to break through in the Eastern Conference. While Miami is still competitive enough to reach the play-in tournament, the club may not offer the championship-caliber environment that Damian Lillard is likely seeking at this stage of his career.
6. Returning to Portland Trail Blazers as a Veteran Mentor
Although the idea of Lillard finishing his career with the Trail Blazers has sentimental appeal, Portland is pushing ahead with a rebuild after acquiring Jrue Holiday. Bringing Lillard back could add valuable veteran leadership for rising stars Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, yet the team is not currently positioned to contend strongly in the tough Western Conference. Furthermore, there is concern that Lillard’s role might create tension if he outperforms Henderson, potentially hindering the development of Portland’s young core.
5. Boston Celtics’ Transitional Phase
The Celtics enter a transitional period with star Jayson Tatum recovering from the same Achilles injury as Lillard. Boston might consider pairing them during their recoveries, with Lillard serving as a backup guard known for his shooting. However, the Celtics already have Payton Pritchard, who offers similar skills and is reaching his prime, which may limit Lillard’s impact. Boston’s longer-term plans to construct a championship team around Tatum remain uncertain, making this less appealing for both sides.
4. A Niche Role with the Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers aim to build a younger, more athletic roster around Luka Doncic, a profile that does not match Lillard’s style. Nevertheless, Lillard could serve as an effective backup ball handler for Luka in a limited role. Rumors of mutual interest exist, but concerns linger about how Lillard’s presence alongside Doncic and Austin Rivers might affect the team’s perimeter defense depth, which could be weakened by their combined defensive limitations.
3. A Homecoming Opportunity with the Golden State Warriors
Hailing from Oakland, Lillard joining the Warriors would be a homecoming. The Warriors already feature veterans like Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler, making Lillard a potential fourth star who could come off the bench. His ability to punish defenses with pull-up threes fits perfectly as a Curry backup, while Butler and Green could help cover him defensively. However, questions remain about whether Golden State will maintain a championship-contending level by the time Lillard recovers and returns to play.
2. Strengthening the Denver Nuggets’ Championship Aspirations
Denver has fortifed its roster this offseason to chase another NBA title, and adding Damian Lillard would provide a new dynamic, particularly as insurance in case Jamal Murray faces injury setbacks. The Nuggets efficiently rehabilitated Russell Westbrook last season, maximizing his contributions as he moved past his prime, suggesting they could do the same with Lillard. Paired with Nikola Jokic, Lillard would fit well in Denver’s bench rotation, enhancing their overall championship potential for the 2027 run.
1. Orlando Magic as a Legitimate Eastern Conference Contender
The Orlando Magic have emerged as a credible threat in the Eastern Conference after acquiring sharpshooter Desmond Bane from Memphis. Bane perfectly complements Orlando’s strong defensive identity, and Lillard’s exceptional pick-and-roll skills and pull-up shooting would add critical scoring and playmaking next to stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Additionally, Lillard’s veteran presence would mentor promising young guard Jase Richardson. For Lillard seeking a meaningful role on a contender, Orlando presents a promising option.