Damian Lillard’s NBA career has entered an uncertain phase following his recent Achilles injury and the Milwaukee Bucks’ unexpected decision to waive him. Known for his explosiveness and clutch shot-making, Lillard is currently focusing on rehabilitation and is taking ample time to consider offers from various teams without feeling pressured to rush his next move. The Boston Celtics have surfaced as a potential suitor, presenting an opportunity for Lillard to return to top-level competition with a talented roster.
How Cedric Maxwell Views Lillard’s Potential Role with the Celtics
Celtics Hall of Famer Cedric Maxwell expressed optimism about the possibility of Lillard joining Boston, noting that Achilles injuries are no longer the career-ending setbacks they once were. Speaking on the Cedric Maxwell Podcast, he argued that modern recovery methods make a successful return highly feasible for Lillard. Maxwell highlighted the Celtics’ valuable core, stating:
Dame Lillard still has a lot in the tank, and I believe that if you were able to get him and just say if he came on board, you get him for small money on the dollar. Now, he comes in with the Celtics. You have Brown, you have Tatum, you have him.
Adding Damian Lillard alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown would provide the Celtics with a powerful trio of scorers, boosting their offensive firepower and championship chances. Maxwell also suggested that Lillard could start immediately, shifting Payton Pritchard to a bench role to enhance team versatility and offense without compromising defense.
Advice from Stephen Jackson on the Timing of Lillard’s Next Step
While interest in signing Lillard is strong, former NBA player Stephen Jackson urged caution, advising Lillard not to rush into any commitments while still recovering. On the All The Smoke podcast, Jackson recommended that Lillard focus on his health and carefully evaluate his options before choosing a team where he can maximize his chance of winning a championship. Jackson emphasized the importance of self-directed rehab, saying:
But until he finds that, you got to rehab on your own. You’ve been making a lot of money, you can have all the same resources outside of the NBA.
Vernon Maxwell Emphasizes Focus on Recovery and Preparation
Vernon Maxwell also weighed in, encouraging Lillard to concentrate fully on his recovery without distractions. He urged Lillard to put himself in the best possible position before making decisions about his career’s future. Vernon Maxwell stated,
Rehab on his own and get himself back together. Just concentrate on himself and put himself in a good position.
Both voices resonate with the cautious optimism surrounding Lillard’s comeback, highlighting that while his “Damian Lillard Celtics comeback potential” is promising, it hinges on careful rehabilitation and thoughtful career choices.
The Outlook for Damian Lillard and the Celtics
The prospect of Damian Lillard joining the Boston Celtics remains a compelling storyline amid NBA’s ongoing offseason moves. If Lillard successfully recovers from his Achilles injury, pairing him with stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown could create a formidable lineup capable of contending for the 2024 championship. Yet, Lillard’s path forward depends heavily on his health and patience in evaluating opportunities. The Celtics stand out as a team rich in talent and ambition, potentially providing the ideal environment for his return to elite form.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Damian Lillard loyal?
A. Lillard is one of the few basketball stars who values loyalty to his city and team more than anything else. He patiently waits for his team to improve and compete for a championship.