Damian Lillard next team odds have shifted dramatically following his unexpected release from the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this week. The nine-time NBA All-Star, sidelined with a torn Achilles, will miss the coming season and now seeks another franchise to potentially conclude his distinguished career.
Key Teams Emerge in Pursuit of Damian Lillard
After being cut by the Bucks in what was considered a surprising decision, speculation has ramped up about where Lillard may land next. According to betting lines released by BetOnline, several organizations are at the forefront in the race for his signature as the league waits to see if he can return to form following his injury recovery.
In previous trade discussions, there was widespread conjecture that Lillard wanted to convince the Portland Trail Blazers to send him to the Miami Heat. At the time of that speculation, Jimmy Butler was still part of the Heat roster, fresh off leading his team to an NBA Finals appearance. Miami was then viewed as one high-profile piece away from a championship run.
Miami Remains Strong Contender Despite Changes
Although Butler has since departed and the Heat’s immediate title-chasing prospects have diminished, Miami is still prominently in the running for Lillard’s services now that he’s available. Oddsmakers have listed the Heat as the current favorite at +300—that translates to a 25% implied probability. The future structure of Miami’s squad remains unclear, as Lillard’s return from injury is still some time away, but the franchise’s desire to pursue elite talent persists.
Portland Looks to a Potential Reunion With Lillard
Lillard could also consider a return to the Trail Blazers, the club where he became an All-Star and franchise icon. Portland has struggled since his departure and is currently amid a rebuilding phase, making the prospect of a reunion especially notable. Reacquiring Lillard would likely see him operate in a new capacity—potentially as a shooting specialist or coming off the bench—depending on his post-injury performance.
The Trail Blazers are positioned as the second most likely destination, given odds of +400, reflecting a 20% implied chance. With recent roster overhauls, Portland is hoping to overcome past difficulties, and the prospect of Lillard contributing in a different but meaningful role has sparked interest both internally and among oddsmakers.
Golden State Offers Hometown Appeal for Lillard
Beyond his past teams, a move to the Bay Area presents a compelling narrative for Lillard. Raised in Oakland’s Brookfield Village, just a short distance from the site of the former Oracle Arena, Lillard’s potential homecoming would likely resonate with local fans. The Golden State Warriors, however, have never been closely linked to Lillard in previous seasons due primarily to the presence of Steph Curry—another high-profile shooter—during Lillard’s prime years.
With Lillard entering the free-agent market later in his career, the circumstances have shifted. Golden State holds the fifth-best odds to sign him at +750. The Warriors’ openness to bringing in a seasoned veteran like Lillard is further heightened by his local ties and their ongoing interest in bolstering roster depth.
What Comes Next for Lillard and Interested Teams
The upcoming NBA season will be pivotal as Damian Lillard recovers from a serious injury and evaluates his options as a free agent. Major franchises such as the Heat, Trail Blazers, and Warriors have positioned themselves as potential landing spots. Oddsmakers and fans alike will be closely watching developments, as Lillard’s choice could influence not only his legacy but also each contender’s path in future campaigns.