The Portland Trail Blazers eagerly welcomed Damian Lillard back to the team after signing him to a three-year contract worth $42 million, following his surprising release by the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this July. Although Lillard will miss the entire 2024-25 season due to a torn Achilles tendon sustained during the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers, both the team and fans are optimistic about his comeback in the 2026-27 season.
Despite concerns surrounding the severity of the injury and Lillard’s age, former Trail Blazers assistant coach David Vanterpool expressed unwavering belief in Lillard’s ability to return to elite form. Vanterpool, who served with Portland from 2012 to 2019, discussed his confidence in Lillard’s recovery during an interview with B Scoop.
The fact that he wants to be there where he wants to be and he’s in a space where he wants to be and come back from that Achilles injury that people don’t believe that he might not be able to do at that age. I don’t think that’s ever a thought for him. I know it’s not.
—David Vanterpool, Former Trail Blazers Assistant Coach
He further emphasized that Lillard’s mindset is shared by others around him, reinforcing the expectation of a full return.
I knew what he thought exactly when it happened and I had this conversation and I don’t expect anything less than that. So everyone’s expecting him to come back as the Damian Lillard that they always knew was him.
—David Vanterpool, Former Trail Blazers Assistant Coach
Portland’s Playoff Ambitions in Lillard’s Absence
While Damian Lillard is sidelined with his recovery, the Trail Blazers aim to build a competitive team that can secure a playoff berth next season. The organization is focusing on developing younger players who will be vital to the team’s success by the time Lillard returns.
Player growth during the 2024-25 season will be pivotal, as the Blazers seek to foster a strong supporting cast capable of making an impact in the playoffs. The franchise believes that with Lillard’s leadership restored in 2026, their potential to contend will be significantly enhanced.
Anticipated Impact of Damian Lillard’s Return on Portland’s Future
Damian Lillard’s rehabilitation progress and eventual comeback are being closely monitored across the NBA, given his stature as one of the game’s premier point guards. His return is expected to reinvigorate the Trail Blazers’ roster, boosting both morale and competitive capability.
As the 2026 season draws nearer, fans and analysts alike will watch how Lillard’s recovery translates on the court. If his former coach’s confidence proves accurate, Portland may regain a key pillar in their quest to return to playoff prominence.